What are the common side effects of levetiracetam 500mg. How to manage drowsiness and dizziness caused by levetiracetam. When should you seek medical attention while taking levetiracetam. How does levetiracetam work to control seizures. What precautions should be taken when using levetiracetam 500mg.

Understanding Levetiracetam: An Overview of the Anticonvulsant Medication

Levetiracetam, commonly prescribed under the brand name Keppra, is an anticonvulsant medication used to treat various types of seizures in epilepsy. It belongs to a class of drugs known as anticonvulsants and works by decreasing abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Typically prescribed in 500mg doses, levetiracetam is often used in combination with other antiepileptic medications to provide comprehensive seizure control.

How does levetiracetam work to control seizures? The exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it is believed to bind to a specific protein in the brain called SV2A, which is involved in the release of neurotransmitters. By modulating this protein, levetiracetam helps to stabilize electrical activity in the brain, reducing the likelihood of seizures occurring.

Common Side Effects of Levetiracetam 500mg: What to Expect

While levetiracetam is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Understanding these potential effects can help patients better manage their treatment and know when to seek medical advice.

• Drowsiness and dizziness
• Headaches
• Nasal congestion or itchy throat
• Nausea and vomiting
• Irritability or agitation
• Aggression

Is drowsiness a common side effect of levetiracetam? Yes, feeling drowsy or sleepy is one of the most frequently reported side effects. This symptom typically improves as your body adjusts to the medication, usually within 1-2 weeks of starting treatment.

Managing Drowsiness and Dizziness

How can patients manage drowsiness and dizziness caused by levetiracetam? If you experience these side effects:

1. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
2. Take the medication at bedtime if approved by your doctor.
3. Ensure you’re getting adequate sleep and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.
4. Avoid alcohol, as it can exacerbate drowsiness and dizziness.

If these side effects persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider. They may adjust your dosage or recommend taking the medication at a different time of day.

Gastrointestinal Side Effects: Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are relatively common side effects of levetiracetam, particularly when first starting the medication. These symptoms often subside as the body adjusts to the treatment.

How can patients manage nausea and vomiting associated with levetiracetam?

• Take the medication with food or immediately after eating.
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
• Avoid rich, spicy, or fatty foods that may exacerbate nausea.
• Stay hydrated by sipping water or clear fluids regularly.
• Try ginger tea or ginger supplements, which may help alleviate nausea.

If nausea and vomiting persist or become severe, contact your healthcare provider. They may recommend anti-nausea medication or adjust your levetiracetam dosage.

Behavioral and Mood Changes: Recognizing and Addressing Concerns

Some patients taking levetiracetam may experience changes in behavior or mood, including irritability, agitation, or aggression. These side effects can be concerning for both patients and their families.

Why do some patients experience behavioral changes while taking levetiracetam? The exact cause is not fully understood, but it may be related to how the medication affects neurotransmitters in the brain. Some individuals may be more susceptible to these effects than others.

Monitoring Behavioral Changes

How can patients and caregivers monitor for behavioral changes related to levetiracetam?

• Keep a diary of mood and behavior changes, noting any patterns or triggers.
• Be aware of sudden changes in personality or increased irritability.
• Pay attention to sleep patterns, as disrupted sleep can exacerbate mood issues.
• Communicate openly with healthcare providers about any concerning changes.

If significant behavioral changes occur, it’s crucial to consult with your neurologist or prescribing physician promptly. They may adjust your medication regimen or recommend additional support, such as counseling.

Serious Side Effects: When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

While rare, levetiracetam can cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. Being aware of these potential reactions can help ensure prompt treatment if they occur.

When should you seek immediate medical attention while taking levetiracetam?

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• Worsening of seizures
• Signs of kidney problems
• Severe mental changes or confusion

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately. In the case of allergic reactions, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room without delay.

Drug Interactions and Precautions: Ensuring Safe Use of Levetiracetam

To maximize the effectiveness of levetiracetam and minimize potential risks, it’s essential to be aware of possible drug interactions and take necessary precautions.

What precautions should be taken when using levetiracetam 500mg?

• Inform your healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, and herbal products you’re taking.
• Avoid alcohol, as it can increase the risk of side effects.
• Use caution when operating machinery or driving until you know how the medication affects you.
• If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
• Do not stop taking levetiracetam abruptly without medical supervision, as this can trigger seizures.

Are there specific drug interactions to be aware of with levetiracetam? While levetiracetam has fewer drug interactions compared to some other antiepileptic medications, it can interact with certain drugs. These may include:

• Other antiepileptic medications
• Methotrexate
• Probenecid
• Certain antibiotics

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist about potential interactions before starting any new medication or supplement.

Long-term Use of Levetiracetam: Monitoring and Management

For many patients with epilepsy, levetiracetam is a long-term treatment option. Understanding how to manage long-term use and what to expect can help ensure continued effectiveness and safety.

How should patients approach long-term use of levetiracetam?

• Attend regular follow-up appointments with your neurologist or prescribing physician.
• Undergo periodic blood tests to monitor kidney function and drug levels.
• Keep a seizure diary to track the effectiveness of the medication over time.
• Report any new or changing side effects to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Discuss any plans to stop or change medication with your doctor before making adjustments.

Can long-term use of levetiracetam lead to tolerance or decreased effectiveness? While some patients may experience a decrease in effectiveness over time, many people continue to benefit from levetiracetam for years. If you notice a change in seizure control, discuss this with your healthcare provider. They may adjust your dosage or consider adding another medication to your regimen.

Alternative Treatment Options: When Levetiracetam Isn’t the Right Fit

While levetiracetam is an effective treatment for many people with epilepsy, it may not be suitable for everyone. Understanding alternative options can be helpful if levetiracetam proves ineffective or causes intolerable side effects.

What alternatives are available if levetiracetam is not well-tolerated?

• Other antiepileptic medications (e.g., carbamazepine, valproic acid, lamotrigine)
• Vagus nerve stimulation
• Ketogenic diet
• Surgical interventions for certain types of epilepsy
• Responsive neurostimulation devices

How do healthcare providers determine the best alternative treatment? The choice of alternative treatment depends on various factors, including:

• Type and frequency of seizures
• Overall health and medical history
• Potential drug interactions with other medications
• Patient preferences and lifestyle considerations

Your neurologist will work with you to find the most appropriate treatment option if levetiracetam is not suitable for your specific situation.

Patient Support and Education: Empowering Individuals on Levetiracetam

Managing epilepsy and navigating treatment with levetiracetam can be challenging. Access to support and education can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

What resources are available for patients taking levetiracetam?

• Epilepsy support groups (both in-person and online)
• Patient education materials from reputable epilepsy organizations
• Medication management apps to track doses and side effects
• Counseling services for coping with the emotional aspects of epilepsy
• Financial assistance programs for medication costs

How can patients actively participate in their epilepsy management while taking levetiracetam?

1. Stay informed about epilepsy and your specific treatment plan.
2. Communicate openly with your healthcare team about concerns and questions.
3. Adhere to your prescribed medication regimen and follow-up appointments.
4. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular sleep patterns and stress management.
5. Connect with others who have similar experiences through support groups or online communities.

By actively engaging in their care and utilizing available resources, patients can enhance their overall experience with levetiracetam treatment and better manage their epilepsy.

Side effects of levetiracetam – NHS

Like all medicines, levetiracetam can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Common side effects

These common side effects of levetiracetam may happen in more than 1 in 10 people. There are things you can do to help cope with them:

A blocked nose or itchy throat

If it’s bothering you, ask your pharmacist for something to help your symptoms. If they do not wear off, tell your doctor.

Feeling drowsy, sleepy or dizzy

Do not drive, ride a bike, or operate machinery until you feel more alert.

As your body gets used to levetiracetam, these side effects should wear off. If they do not wear off within 1 or 2 weeks, your doctor may reduce your dose or increase it more slowly. If that does not work, you may need to switch to a different medicine.

Headaches

Make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. Do not drink too much alcohol. If headaches are a problem, ask your pharmacist to recommend a painkiller.

Talk to your doctor if your headaches last longer than a week or are severe.

Aggression, or feeling irritable or agitated

Talk to your doctor if you have any of these side effects.

Feeling sick or being sick (nausea or vomiting)

Stick to simple meals and do not eat rich or spicy food. It might help to take your levetiracetam after a meal or snack.

If you’re being sick, take small, frequent sips of water to avoid dehydration. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee.

Do not take any medicines to treat vomiting without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor. Speak to a doctor if your symptoms get worse or last longer than a week.

If you take contraceptive pills and you’re being sick, your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet to find out what to do.

Serious side effects

Tell a doctor or call 111 straight away if you have a serious side effect, including:

• fits or seizures getting worse
• passing very little pee, feeling tired or confused, or having swollen legs, ankles or feet – these could be signs of kidney problems
• signs of serious mental changes, or someone around you notices signs of confusion, sleepiness, loss of memory, forgetfulness, abnormal behaviour or uncontrolled movements

Very few people taking levetiracetam have serious side effects.

Immediate action required: Go to A&E or call 999 now if:

• you have thoughts of harming or killing yourself

Serious allergic reaction

In rare cases, it’s possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to levetiracetam.

Immediate action required: Call 999 now if:

• your lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly become swollen
• you’re breathing very fast or struggling to breathe (you may become very wheezy or feel like you’re choking or gasping for air)
• your throat feels tight or you’re struggling to swallow
• your skin, tongue or lips turn blue, grey or pale (if you have black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet)
• you suddenly become very confused, drowsy or dizzy
• someone faints and cannot be woken up
• a child is limp, floppy or not responding like they normally do (their head may fall to the side, backwards or forwards, or they may find it difficult to lift their head or focus on your face)

You or the person who’s unwell may also have a rash that’s swollen, raised, itchy, blistered or peeling.

These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.

Other side effects

These are not all the side effects of levetiracetam. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicine packet.

Information:

You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.

Visit Yellow Card for further information.

Page last reviewed: 10 May 2022

Next review due: 10 May 2025

Levetiracetam Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

Levetiracetam is used with other medications to treat seizures (epilepsy). It belongs to a class of drugs known as anticonvulsants. Levetiracetam may decrease the number of seizures you have.

How to use Levetiracetam Tablet For Suspension

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking levetiracetam and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually twice a day.

Carefully remove the tablet(s) from the foil packet as directed by the product package. Do not push the tablet(s) through the foil. Dry your hands before handling the medication. Place each dose on the tongue and take a sip of liquid. Allow the medication to completely dissolve before swallowing it. Do not swallow the tablet(s) whole.

The tablet(s) may also be placed in a cup with a small amount of liquid (1 tablespoon/15 milliliters). Swirl the mixture gently, then drink all of the mixture right away. To make sure you have taken all of the medication, add another small amount of liquid to the cup to rinse it, and drink it right away.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. The dosage in children is also based on weight. To reduce your risk of side effects (such as dizziness and drowsiness), your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.

Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Your seizures may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose should be gradually decreased.

Tell your doctor if your seizures lasts, change, or gets worse.

Side Effects

Drowsiness, dizziness, unusual tiredness, or weakness may occur. These side effects are more common during the first 4 weeks and usually lessen as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, such as: loss of coordination (such as difficulty walking and controlling muscles), mental/mood changes (such as irritability, aggression, agitation, anger, anxiety), signs of infection (such as sore throat that doesn’t go away, fever, chills), signs of anemia (such as unusual tiredness that doesn’t go away, pale skin, fast breathing, fast heartbeat), easy bruising/bleeding.

A small number of people who take anticonvulsants for any condition (such as seizures, bipolar disorder, pain) may experience depression, suicidal thoughts/attempts, or other mental/mood problems. Tell your doctor right away if you or your family/caregiver notice any unusual/sudden changes in your mood, thoughts, or behavior including signs of depression, suicidal thoughts/attempts, thoughts about harming yourself.

Levetiracetam can commonly cause a rash that is usually not serious. However, you may not be able to tell it apart from a rare rash that could be a sign of a severe reaction. Tell your doctor right away if you develop any rash.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, such as: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www. fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking levetiracetam, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease (such as dialysis treatment), mental/mood disorders (such as depression).

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy, especially during the first month of treatment. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, ride a bicycle, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (such as prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of the drug, especially mental/mood changes (such as irritability, aggression, agitation, anger, anxiety, depression, thoughts of suicide). Children younger than 4 years may be at greater risk for increased blood pressure while using this drug (see also Notes section).

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially drowsiness, dizziness or loss of coordination. These side effects can increase the risk of falling.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

A product that may interact with this drug is: orlistat.

Does Levetiracetam Tablet For Suspension interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: slow/shallow breathing, loss of consciousness.

Do not share this medication with others.

Lab and/or medical tests (such as kidney function, complete blood count) may be done while you are taking this medication. In children younger than 4 years, blood pressure may also be monitored. Consult your doctor for more details.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

The use of levetiracetam in the treatment of children with cancer

Anticonvulsant

Trademarks:

Keppra®, Spiratam®

Often used for:

Seizures

Levetiracetam is a drug that helps relieve seizures.

During therapy, tests may be performed to monitor the level of levetiracetam in the blood. Depending on the content in the blood, the dosage of the drug may vary.

This drug is available in regular and extended release forms. Follow dosage instructions carefully.

Administered intravenously (through a drip) in liquid form

Oral tablets

Oral liquid form

• Drowsiness
• Increased fatigue or general weakness
  
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Dizziness
• Loss of balance or coordination
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain
• Headache
• Stuffy nose
• Sleep disorders
• Irritability, mood swings or personality changes

The listed side effects are not observed in all patients who are prescribed levetiracetam. The most common side effects are highlighted in bold, but others are not excluded. Report all possible side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Be sure to discuss these and other recommendations with your doctor or pharmacist.

• This drug may cause dizziness and drowsiness and increase the risk of falls.
• You can stop taking levetiracetam only in consultation with your doctor.
• Patients of reproductive age who have been prescribed levetiracetam should consult their doctor before planning pregnancy.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should notify their physician.

Levetiracetam home use:

• The drug should be taken at the same time every day.
• The tablets should be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew before taking.
• Absorbable tablets (Spritam®) should be held on the tongue until completely dissolved (about 10 seconds) and then taken with a sip of liquid. You can also dissolve the tablet in 1 teaspoon of liquid and swallow immediately. Pour some more liquid into the glass and drink to get the full dose of the drug. It is not allowed to swallow the drug whole, as well as crush or chew it.
• When taking levetiracetam in liquid form, measure the dosage using the measuring device included in the kit.
• Store at room temperature.
• Take your dose as soon as possible if you miss it. Do not do this only if there are no more than 4 hours left until the next appointment. In no case do not double the dose at the next dose!
• Do not use an expired drug.
• Follow instructions for safe storage and disposal of this product.

Learn more about levetiracetam

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