Levetiracetam
Information about Levetiracetam
Levetiracetam uses
Levetiracetam is used in the treatment of epilepsy/seizures.
How levetiracetam works
Levetiracetam is an antiepileptic medication. It works by attaching to specific sites (SV2A) on the surfaces of nerve cells. This suppresses the abnormal activity of the nerve cells in the brain and prevents the spread of electrical signals that cause seizures.
Common side effects of levetiracetam
Sleepiness, Dizziness, Decreased appetite, Headache, Behavioural changes, Aggressive behavior, Irritation, Agitation, Nasal congestion (stuffy nose), Infection, Fatigue
Content Details
Last updated on:
05 Mar 2020 | 03:57 PM (IST)
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Expert advice for Levetiracetam
- Levetiracetam should be taken regularly as directed by your doctor as missing doses can trigger seizures.
- Do not change the brand of your medicine and make sure that you have sufficient amount of medicine present with you.
- Some healthy tips to prevent seizures:
- Take a healthy diet along with regular exercise.
- Practice yoga every day.
- Get enough sleep at nighttime.
- Limit the use of screen time such as mobile/ laptop.
- Take your medication on time.
- It may cause sleepiness or drowsiness. If this happens to you, do not drive or use machinery.
- Inform your doctor if you have ever been diagnosed with kidney disease. The dose of your medicine may need to be adjusted.
- Do not stop using Levetiracetam without talking to your doctor, even if you feel better.
Frequently asked questions for Levetiracetam
Levetiracetam
Q. Can the use of Levetiracetam cause sleepiness?
Yes, Levetiracetam can make you feel sleepy. Therefore, during the initial phase of treatment, avoid driving, operating machinery, working at heights, or participating in potentially dangerous activities, until you know how this medicine affects you.
Q. Will the use of Levetiracetam affect my fertility?
Levetiracetam is not known to affect fertility in males or females. However, talk to your doctor if you are facing fertility issues during the treatment with this medicine.
Q. I have gained weight since I started taking Levetiracetam. Is it because of Levetiracetam? What should I do?
Weight gain is an uncommon side effect of Levetiracetam. However, the response may vary from person to person. To prevent weight gain you should take a healthy balanced diet, avoid snacking, cut down on high-calorie food items, include more vegetables and fruits in your diet and exercise regularly. If you still have issues with your weight, consult your doctor.
Q. What should I do if I have missed a dose of Levetiracetam?
If you have missed a dose of Levetiracetam, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip it and take the next dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose, as this may increase the chance of side effects. If you are not sure what to do, you can contact your doctor.
Q. How long does Levetiracetam take to show its effect?
Levetiracetam may take a few weeks to start working properly since the dose is increased slowly. It is possible that your seizures may continue until Levetiracetam starts working completely.
Q. For how long do I need to take Levetiracetam?
You should continue to take Levetiracetam for as long as your doctor advises you to. Do not stop taking it suddenly because this may increase the frequency of seizures which may be difficult to control.
Q. Will I get addicted to Levetiracetam if I use it for a long time?
No, Levetiracetam is not habit-forming. No physical or psychological dependence has been reported with Levetiracetam. Consult your doctor if you experience any side effects.
Q. What symptoms can occur if someone takes an excess of Levetiracetam?
Taking an excess of Levetiracetam may cause sleepiness, agitation, aggression, decrease of alertness, inhibition of breathing and even a state of coma. In case of an overdose, immediate medical care should be provided to the patient in a nearby hospital.
Q. How do I come off Levetiracetam?
The dose of Levetiracetam should be slowly reduced. You may have to take this medicine for a few months before you can stop it completely. Do not reduce the dose without asking your doctor. Inform your doctor if you get a serious side effect, such as a severe skin reaction. Your doctor may tell you to stop taking Levetiracetam straight away, even if you have epilepsy.