Indications
Levetiracetam is used to treat epilepsy. It controls focal (partial) seizures, with or without spreading to the whole brain, on its own or with other medicines, and is added to other treatment for myoclonic seizures (sudden jerks) and generalised tonic-clonic seizures. The injection is used in hospital when tablets cannot be taken.
How It Works
Levetiracetam is an antiepileptic. It binds to a protein (SV2A) involved in releasing chemical messengers between nerve cells, which calms excessive electrical activity in the brain and helps prevent seizures.
Dosage and Administration
Take exactly as prescribed, usually twice a day at about the same times, with or without food, swallowing tablets whole with water. In adults, treatment usually starts at 250 to 500 mg twice a day and is increased step by step to the dose that controls seizures, up to a maximum of 1500 mg twice a day. People with kidney problems need lower doses. Children: dose is based on body weight, as prescribed. The injection is given by a doctor or nurse.
Interactions
- Few important drug interactions are known.
- Alcohol and other medicines that cause drowsiness can increase sleepiness and dizziness.
- It may slow the removal of Methotrexate from the body; blood levels may need checking.
- Some laxatives (for example Macrogol) taken within an hour of a dose may reduce its effect.
Contraindications
Allergy to levetiracetam, similar medicines (pyrrolidone derivatives) or any ingredient of the product.
Side Effects
Common: sleepiness, tiredness, dizziness, headache, sore throat or runny nose, loss of appetite, and mood changes such as irritability, anxiety or low mood.
Get urgent medical help for: thoughts of harming yourself; severe changes in mood or behaviour, aggression or confusion; seizures that become more frequent or last longer; a severe rash with blisters or peeling skin, or rash with fever and swollen glands; swelling of the face or throat; or signs of infection with fever.
Pregnancy and Lactation
If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, speak to your doctor; do not stop treatment on your own, because uncontrolled seizures are dangerous for mother and baby. Levetiracetam is one of the options doctors consider in pregnancy, and folic acid is usually advised. It passes into breast milk; the doctor will decide whether breastfeeding is suitable and the baby should be watched for sleepiness.
Precautions and Warnings
- Do not stop suddenly; stopping must be done slowly under medical advice to avoid seizures.
- Tell the doctor about kidney problems or any history of depression or mood problems. Family members should watch for mood or behaviour changes.
- Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you, and follow local rules on driving with epilepsy.
Overdose
Overdose can cause heavy sleepiness, agitation, aggression, slowed breathing and coma. Seek emergency medical help immediately.
Therapeutic Class
Antiepileptic (anticonvulsant).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.