What is Levetiracetam?

Levetiracetam is used in adults and children with epilepsy to treat some forms of seizures in combination with other drugs. Levetiracetam belongs to a family of drugs called anticonvulsants. It reduces abnormal excitement in the brain.

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Levetiracetam Uses

Myoclonic seizures: approved for use in the treatment of myoclonic seizures in adults and juvenile myoclonic epilepsy in adolescents 12 years of age and older as adjunctive therapy.
Partial seizures: It can be used as adjunctive therapy in adults and children aged one month or older with epilepsy for the treatment of partial seizures.
Primary generalized tonic-clonic seizure: Used for adjunctive therapy in adults and children above five years of age with idiopathic generalized epilepsy for the treatment of primary generalized tonic-clonic seizure.
Off-label (non-FDA-approved) for epileptic status and prophylaxis of seizures in subarachnoid hemorrhage is also used.

Levetiracetam Side Effects

Levetiracetam Dosage can lead to some serious side effects, such as:

Drowsiness
Dizziness
Tiredness
Fatigue

Levetiracetam Dosage

Epilepsy dose
Immediate release- 500 mg orally

Extended-Release (Partial-Onset Seizures Only):

Primary dose: 1000 mg orally once per day
Seizures dose

Initial

Primary Dose: Oral 500 mg
Based on effectiveness and tolerability, an increase in increments of 500 mg twice a day every two weeks
Maintenance dose: 500 to 1500 mg twice daily orally
3000 mg/day Daily dose

Extended-Release (Only partial-onset seizures)

Primary dose: 1000 mg once a day by mouth
Based on effectiveness and tolerability, an increase in increments of 1000 mg per 2 weeks
Maintenance dose: orally from 1000 to 3000 mg once a day
3000 mg/day Daily dose

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Precautions

Before taking the Levetiracetam tablet, get a proper consultation and follow precautions.

Children may be more responsive to the drug's side effects, especially mental/mood changes (such as irritability, aggression, anger, anxiety, agitation, depression, and thoughts of suicide).
Children under the age of 4 could be at greater risk of high blood pressure while taking this medication.
Older adults may be more prone to side effects of this medication, particularly sleepiness, dizziness, or lack of balance, which may raise the risk of falling.
During pregnancy, it may be avoided, as it can harm the baby. Take only when urgently required.
Inform your doctor if you have or have ever had diseases like kidney, depression, mood swings, or suicidal thoughts, or behavior change.

Citations

JLE - Epileptic Disorders - Antimyoclonic effect of levetiracetam

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the side effects of Levetiracetam?

The common side effects one might face when taking levetiracetam are headaches, feeling drowsy, changes in mood swings, irritability, and a blocked nose or an itchy throat.

2. Does levetiracetam make you gain weight?

Yes, in some cases, Levetiracetam may lead to weight gain.

3. Does levetiracetam cause weight loss?

It depends on the degree of disease because Levetiracetam is considered a “weight- neutral" drug. It might lead to both weight gain and weight loss.

4. What should I avoid while taking levetiracetam?

Strictly avoid alcohol consumption.
Antidepressants such as SSRIs (e.g. escitalopram, fluoxetine) should not be consumed. Inhibitors of monoamine oxidase, such as selegiline, isocarboxazid, or tranylcypromine, also should be not taken.
Anti-epileptic medications, such as phenytoin and carbamazepine.
Diazepam, oxazepam, and temazepam, for example, are benzodiazepines.

5. Does Levetiracetam make you sleepy?

Yes, Levetiracetam makes a person feel dizzy and sleepy.

6. Is it safe to take Levetiracetam for a longer period of time?

Depending on the severity of the disease and the doctor's recommendation, only Levetiracetam should be taken for a long period of time.

7. Is it important to take Vitamin B alongside my Levetiracetam?

Vitamin B can be taken along with Levetiracetam to reduce side effects like a change in mood.

8. Can Levetiracetam be taken with other medications?

Levetiracetam can interact with other medications, so it is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Your doctor will adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

9. What precautions should I take while using Levetiracetam 500 mg tablets?

Avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, until you know how Levetiracetam affects you. Inform your doctor if you have any history of kidney problems, depression, or suicidal thoughts.

10. What is Tiracetam 500, and how is it related to Levetiracetam?

Tiracetam 500 is another brand name for Levetiracetam 500 mg. It is used for the same purpose of controlling seizures in epilepsy patients.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.