levetiracetam Health Article

Generic name(s):

levetiracetam

Brand name(s):

Keppra

What is the most important information I should know about levetiracetam?

Do not stop taking levetiracetam without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely. If you stop taking levetiracetam suddenly, you may have increased seizures.

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking this medication. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself. Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking levetiracetam, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you are taking levetiracetam. Levetiracetam can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

What is levetiracetam?

Levetiracetam is an anti-epileptic drug.

Levetiracetam is used to treat partial onset seizures in people with epilepsy. Levetiracetam is also used to treat myoclonic seizures and tonic-clonic seizures.

Levetiracetam may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking levetiracetam?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to levetiracetam.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have kidney disease. You may need a dose adjustment or special tests during treatment.

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking this medication. Tell your doctor if you have new or worsening depression or suicidal thoughts during the first several months of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed.

Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Levetiracetam can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give this medication to a child younger than 6 years old without the advice of a doctor.