What is Levetiracetam (oral/injection)? Uses, effects, side effects & warnings

What is Levetiracetam?

Levetiracetam can be used to treat certain types of seizures that occur in people with epilepsy. These include partial-onset seizures, tonic-clonic seizures, and myoclonic seizures.

Useful for partial-onset seizures

Levetiracetam (XR), a long-lasting release, is suitable for children and adults over 12 years of age.
Spritam was designed for children who are at least four years old and weigh at least 20 kilogrammes (44 pounds).
Keppra and Roweepra can be given to children as young as 1 month of age.

Levetiracetam can also be used in conjunction with other seizure medications to treat myoclonic and tonic-clonic epileptic seizures in patients older than 12 years.Only people over 16 can receive the injection.Levetiracetam can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.

Side effects of Levetiracetam

If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling on your face or in your throat, or a severe reaction to your skin (fever or sore throat, pain in the eyes, or skin irritation), or if your skin has rashes that are red or purple and cause blisters or peeling, seek emergency medical attention.Report to your doctor any new or worsening signs or symptoms, including mood or behavioural changes, depressive disorder, anxiety, panic attacks, or difficulty sleeping. Also, report if you are feeling agitated, hostile, or hyperactive, mentally or physically, or have thoughts of suicide or harming yourself.

Levetiracetam may cause serious side effects. If you experience:

Unusual changes in mood or behaviour (risk-taking, irritability, or talkativeness);
Feeling very tired or weak; confusion; extreme drowsiness;
Problems with balance, coordination, or walking;
A skin rash is a rash on the skin, regardless of how mild it may be.
Easy bruising and unusual bleeding
Infections can cause fever, chills, or weakness.

Levetiracetam side effects may include:

Dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness, weakness;
Feeling aggressive or irritable
Loss of appetite
Stuffy nose;

There may be other side effects. Call your physician immediately if experiencing side effects; alternatively, reach out to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 so they may investigate further.

Warnings

Levetiracetam can cause suicidal thoughts in some people. Be mindful if any significant shifts appear in your mood or symptoms. Inform your doctor if you experience any new symptoms or if they worsen.If you suddenly stop taking levetiracetam, seizures may increase.

Before you take this drug

If you have an allergy to levetiracetam, it is best not to use it.

Inform your physician of any of the following issues:

Kidney disease (or dialysis if you have it);
Depression or other mood disorders;
Mental illness or psychosis
Suicidal thoughts and actions.

Levetiracetam should not be given to children without a doctor's advice. This medicine is only for children in certain age groups.Levetiracetam can cause suicidal thoughts in some people. You will be required to visit your doctor regularly in order to monitor your progress. You or your family members should be aware of any changes in mood or symptoms.You should not stop or start seizure medications during pregnancy without consulting your doctor. A seizure could be harmful to both mother and child. Inform your doctor immediately if you are pregnant. The dose requirements may change during pregnancy.You may find your name on a registry for pregnant women to monitor the effects of levetiracetam.Ask your doctor if you can safely breastfeed if you are taking this medication.

How to take Levetiracetam?

Read all the instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow the directions. Sometimes, your doctor will change the dose. As directed, take the medication exactly as prescribed.Levetiracetam orally is taken every day at the same time, with food or not.If you cannot take the medicine orally, levetiracetam is injected into a vein.If you change the brand, strength, or form of your medicine, it may affect your dose requirements. The dose needed by a child may change as he or she gains or loses body weight. Use only the medication your doctor prescribed.Please read and follow all instructions for use that come with your medication. If you don't understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.Use the syringe provided or a dosing device to measure liquid medicines (not a spoon).Do not consume, crush or break an extended-release tablet in any manner.Spritam tablets for oral suspension should not be swallowed or chewed. Take a small sip of liquid and place the tablet in your mouth. Do not swallow the tablet until it has dissolved completely on your tongue.Your kidney function could need to be evaluated.All seizure medication should be taken as prescribed. You should not stop taking a medication or change the dose without consulting your doctor.If you suddenly stop taking levetiracetam, seizures may increase. Before stopping your medicine, consult with your doctor.Wear a medical ID tag or carry a card to alert others that you suffer from seizures.Store items away from moisture, heat and light at room temperature to preserve quality and maximize life span.

What happens if I miss the dose?

If you are almost due for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.Refill your prescription before you run out.

What happens if I overdose?

Contact 1-800-222-1222 immediately in case of poisoning and seek immediate medical care.Overdose symptoms include extreme drowsiness or agitation, shallow breathing, aggression, and fainting.

What should be avoided?

Levetiracetam can cause you to feel dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving and other dangerous activities until you are sure of how they will affect you. Dizziness and drowsiness may cause accidents or serious injuries.