Levetiracetam

Molecule Description

Levetiracetam medicine is an anticonvulsant used in the treatment of epilepsy.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Levetiracetam

It is used in treating various forms of epilepsy i.e., partial-onset epilepsy, myoclonic epilepsy (short, shock-like jerks of a muscle or group of muscles), also used for generalized tonic-clonic seiz...

Contraindications of Levetiracetam

When should one not use Levetiracetam

Known allergy (hypersensitivity) to Levetiracetam
Depression
Kidney disease
Hallucination
Decrease in blood cells, decreased white blood cells
Having suicidal thoughts and mental disorders(loss of personality and reality)

Side effects of Levetiracetam

Common side effects of this drug are:

Dizziness
Headache
Inflammation of nose and throat
Fatigue (tiredness)
Loss of appetite
Sleepiness
Hyper movements, mental disorders, outbursts of anger
Vomiting, nausea
Vertigo (sensation of rotation)
Irritability, emotional changes
Flu-like symptoms, a rash on the face followed by an extended rash, fever, increased levels of liver enzymes seen in blood tests and an increase in a type of white blood cell (eosinophilia) and enlarg...
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Mood and behavior change like confusion, loss of memory, memory impairment, forgetfulness, abnormal behavior

Precautions and Warnings of Levetiracetam

Pregnancy

Can I take Levetiracetam during pregnancy?

This medicine should not be taken in pregnancy unless it is considered necessary by your doctor. Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant or are planning a pregnancy.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Levetiracetam while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment as Levetiracetam passes into human milk. However, if advised by your doctor to continue breastfeeding, the baby must be watched for symptoms like drowsiness, adequate weight gain, and developmental milestones.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Levetiracetam?

You should avoid driving as it may make you feel sleepy.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Levetiracetam?

Alcohol can increase the side effects of Levetiracetam, such as dizziness, drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, impairment in thinking, and judgment. Alcohol should be avoided when you are taking this drug.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

Have a suicidal tendency
If you have kidney disease or you are on hemodialysis
You have any history of blood-related abnormalities
Do not stop the medicine abruptly. Your doctor shall gradually decrease the dose of the medication before stopping

Mode of Action of Levetiracetam

How Does It Work?

Brain cells usually talk to each other using electrical signals and chemicals. Seizures can happen when the brain cells are not working or firing normally or working faster than usual. Levetiracetam j...

Interactions of Levetiracetam

Interactions with other medicines

It has interactions with numerous drugs. Do not take any medications without consulting your doctor. There are major interactions seen with Acetaminophen, Methotrexate, Propoxyphene, Aspirin, Caffeine...

Dosage of Levetiracetam

Overdose

Drowsiness is the highest recorded overdose symptom. Other than drowsiness, agitation, aggression, depressed level of consciousness, inability to breath, and coma have also been recorded as overdose s...

Missed a Dose

If any dose missed by you, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and go back to your usual schedule. Avoid taking two dosages at the same...

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Ravi Kakarla

MBBS, MBA

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: When and how to consume the medicine?

A: Swallow the tablet whole with water. The oral solution should be used in pediatric patients with a bodyweight of 20 kg or less. For pediatric patients, for dispensing the oral solution in weight-based dosing, a calibrated measuring device should be used (not just any household teaspoon or tablespoon). Take this drug precisely as advised by the physician. Do not stop taking or reduce or increase the doses on your own.

Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking this medicine?

A: Give a detailed account of your medical and surgical history. You must tell your doctor if you have a suicidal tendency or kidney disease, or if you are on hemodialysis or any history of hematological abnormalities. Also, mention to your doctor all the prescription and non-prescription medicines, herbal preparations, and nutritional supplements that you may be taking before starting this medication.

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Last Updated on: 05 Oct 2020 | 10:47 PM (IST)

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The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.