OBJETIVE: To review the legal aspects of the basic rights of the people with epilepsy. METHODS: Review of the BrazilianFederal Constitution. RESULTS: It is performed a brief explanation about basic rights of the people with epilepsy, in equality to all Brazilian citizens, especially regarding complete access to public health assistance, including the controversial issue about the free supply of antiepileptic drugs. In the same way, a small note is made about the medical right to prescribe the correct medication, according to the patients' needs. Finally, it is commented some critical view regarding self-discrimination, once since the person is properly treated, it is expected the patient would wish to remain inserted into productive society. CONCLUSIONS: People with epilepsy, equally to all Brazilian citizens, have their rights assured by the Brazilian Federal Constitution, and it is illegal the distinction because of any difference and it is legally assured the complete access to health assistance. It is expected that people with epilepsy do not auto discriminate themselves and do fight for their rights.
epilepsy; law; discrimination; rights; equality
