Bricet-100

Indications

Brivaracetam is used to control focal (partial-onset) seizures, with or without spread to both sides of the brain. It is usually added to other epilepsy medicines when seizures are not fully controlled. It is used in adults and adolescents, and in younger children as prescribed by a specialist.

How It Works

Brivaracetam attaches to a protein called SV2A in nerve endings in the brain. This helps calm the excess electrical activity that causes seizures. It is closely related to Levetiracetam.

Dosage and Administration

• Adults and adolescents: usually 50 mg twice a day to start (some start at 25 mg twice a day). The doctor may adjust it between 25 mg and 100 mg twice a day.
• Children: the dose depends on body weight and is given as prescribed.
• Liver disease: the doctor will use a lower dose.

Take about 12 hours apart, with or without food. Swallow tablets whole with water. Measure the oral solution with the syringe or cup provided, not a kitchen spoon. Do not stop suddenly, as seizures may return; the doctor will reduce the dose slowly.

Interactions

Rifampicin can lower brivaracetam levels, so the doctor may need to change the dose. It can raise the level of Phenytoin and of a breakdown product of Carbamazepine. Taking it with Levetiracetam gives no extra benefit. Alcohol and other medicines that cause drowsiness, such as sleeping tablets and some antihistamines, can increase drowsiness. St John's Wort may lower its effect.

Contraindications

• Allergy to brivaracetam, to similar medicines such as Levetiracetam, or to any ingredient.

Side Effects

Common: drowsiness, dizziness, tiredness, nausea, irritability, low mood, anxiety and trouble sleeping. Children may become restless or overactive.

Get urgent medical help if you have thoughts of harming yourself or ending your life, sudden aggression, seeing or hearing things that are not there, more frequent or longer seizures, or signs of a severe allergy such as swelling of the face, lips or throat or difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

There is limited information about use in pregnancy. Do not stop taking it on your own, because uncontrolled seizures are dangerous for both mother and baby. If you plan a pregnancy or become pregnant, talk to your doctor early; folic acid is usually advised. It passes into breast milk, so the doctor will decide whether you can breastfeed while taking it.

Precautions and Warnings

Family members should watch for changes in mood or behaviour, especially early in treatment. Use with care in liver disease. It can cause drowsiness and dizziness, so do not drive or use machines until you know how it affects you, and follow local rules on driving with epilepsy. Avoid alcohol.

Overdose

An overdose can cause drowsiness, dizziness, problems with balance, anxiety, tiredness and nausea. There is no specific antidote; seek medical help straight away.

Therapeutic Class

Antiepileptic (SV2A ligand).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Use the oral solution within the time stated on the label after opening.