Levetiracetam

Levetiracetam — Uses and Benefits

Levetiracetam is mainly used to treat epilepsy in adults and children.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treating partial-onset seizures
• Treating generalised tonic-clonic seizures
• Treating myoclonic seizures
• Used alone or along with other anti-epileptic medicines

HOW IT WORKS

• It acts on a protein in brain nerve cells called SV2A
• This helps reduce abnormal, excessive electrical signalling in the brain
• Reducing this activity helps prevent or reduce seizures

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller
• It is not used for anxiety or sleep problems
• It does not cure epilepsy, it only controls seizures
• It should not be stopped suddenly without medical advice as this can trigger seizures

How to Use Levetiracetam

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually twice a day
• Can be taken with or without food
• Swallow tablets with a glass of water; do not crush unless advised
• If using syrup, use the measuring device provided
• Take at the same times each day to maintain steady levels in the body
• Do not stop suddenly, even if you feel better, unless your doctor tells you to

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one
• If you miss several doses, contact your doctor before restarting

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat and sunlight
• Keep out of reach of children
• Keep the strip or bottle tightly closed
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Levetiracetam — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Sleepiness or drowsiness
• Tiredness or weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Loss of appetite

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Irritability or mood changes
• Nausea or stomach upset
• Difficulty concentrating
• Nervousness or agitation
• Double vision

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• Severe mood changes, depression, or aggression
• Signs of allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face/lips, or breathing difficulty
• Severe skin reactions with blistering or peeling
• Unusual muscle weakness or loss of coordination
• Signs of liver problems such as yellowing of skin or eyes

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Levetiracetam — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to levetiracetam or any ingredient in the product
• Have been advised against it by your doctor for a specific medical reason

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney disease
• Have a history of depression, mood disorders, or suicidal thoughts
• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy
• Are breastfeeding
• Are elderly, as dose adjustments may be needed
• Have a history of alcohol use

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other anti-epileptic medicines
• Sedatives or medicines that cause drowsiness
• Alcohol, which can increase drowsiness
• Certain antidepressants
• Always share your full list of medicines and supplements with your doctor

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drive or operate machinery on this medicine?

It can cause drowsiness and dizziness, so avoid driving until you know how it affects you.

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

Alcohol can worsen drowsiness and is best avoided while on this medicine.

Can I stop this medicine once my seizures are controlled?

• No, stopping suddenly can cause seizures to return or worsen; any change should be done gradually under medical supervision.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.