It sounds to me that it's a life-altering and potentially life-saving medication (not that a fit will kill you, but if you have one whilst at the top of a flight of stairs, a possible fall might). Therefore a disability which is, in all probability, not as bad as epilepsy could be - I'd say the meds were probably worth it. But I'm not in that situation and therefore cannot say that. I suppose it's for your friend to weigh that up.

Good luck to her - I hope she doesn't blame herself for trying to be as well-informed and doing the best for her children as possible.