Keppra (Levetiracetam)

What is Keppra?

Keppra (levetiracetam) is an anti-epileptic drug.

What is Keppra used for?

Keppra is indicated for the treatment of partial seizure disorders in adults and children aged 4 and above. It is also used to treat tonic-clonic seizures in adults and children aged 6 and above, and myoclonic seizures in adults and children aged 12 and above.

How does Keppra work?

It is not known how Keppra works to prevent and treat seizures.

How to use Keppra

Keppra should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Taking it for longer periods or in larger amounts than recommended can cause health problems.

The medicine is usually taken twice daily, with a full glass of water. It can be taken with or without food. Do not break, crush or chew the tablet. Swallow it.

If you are taking Keppra in a liquid form, do not use a standard tablespoon or a teaspoon to measure the dose. Use a special dose-measuring spoon or cup in order to get correct dose.

Remember to take the medicine at the same time each day. Get your blood and liver function tested on a regular basis.

Keppra warnings and precautions

Before using Keppra, tell your doctor if you are allergic to levetiracetam or any other drug, or if you have kidney disease.

Avoid drinking alcohol as it can increase some side effects of the drug and may also increase the risk of seizures. Also, avoid performing activities that require alertness (e.g. driving) as the drug may impair your thinking or reactions.

Pregnant women should not use Keppra without consulting their doctors. If you plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor in advance. The drug can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Thus, lactating women should not use the drug unless prescribed by the doctor. Also, do not give this medicine to a child without consulting your doctor.

What do I do if I have missed a Keppra dose?

If you have missed your Keppra dose, you can take the missed dose as soon as you remember but do not take it if it is time for your next (scheduled) dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Keppra overdose?

If you have taken a Keppra overdose, you should seek emergency medical attention.

Keppra interactions

Before taking Keppra, consult your doctor if you take antihistamines (such as diphenhydramine), narcotic pain relievers (such as codeine), anti-seizure drugs (carbamazepine), muscle relaxants, medicine for sleep or anxiety (such as diazepam, alprazolam, zolpidem), psychiatric medicines (such as risperidone, amitriptyline, chlorpromazine, trazodone). Avoid using other drugs that cause drowsiness (some cough and cold medicines cause drowsiness).

Tell your doctor about all prescription and non prescription drugs that you use including mineral and vitamin supplements. Also, do not start taking any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Keppra side effects

Keppra side effects include hives, depression, anxiety, restlessness, hyperactivity (mental or physical), mood changes, hallucinations, fever, chills, behaviour changes, body ache, weakness, worsening or increasing seizures, nausea, stomach ache, loss of appetite, lack of coordination, breathing difficulty, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice; swelling of face, tongue, lips or throat; and other allergic reactions. If you get any of these side effects after using Keppra, contact your doctor right away.

Headache, sore throat, runny nose, neck pain, dizziness, drowsiness, and spinning sensation are some less serious side effects of Keppra.