Levetiracetam 500mg

Levetiracetam 500mg — Uses and Benefits

Levetiracetam 500mg is mainly used to treat epilepsy, a condition in which abnormal electrical activity in the brain causes seizures.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treating partial-onset seizures in adults and children
• Treating myoclonic seizures (sudden brief jerks)
• Treating primary generalised tonic-clonic seizures
• Often used alongside other anti-epileptic medicines

HOW IT WORKS

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

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller and does not treat headaches or migraines directly
• It is not used to treat anxiety or sleep disorders
• It is not a cure for epilepsy; it only controls seizures
• It should not be stopped suddenly without medical advice as this can trigger seizures

How to Use Levetiracetam 500mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• It can be taken with or without food
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Try to take it at the same times each day to maintain steady levels in the body
• Do not stop taking it suddenly, even if you feel better, without consulting your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose 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 a double dose 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 sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Keep in the original packaging until ready to use

Levetiracetam 500mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Sleepiness or drowsiness
• Weakness or tiredness
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Loss of appetite

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Irritability or mood changes
• Nausea or vomiting
• Difficulty concentrating
• Double vision
• Common cold-like symptoms

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• Severe skin rash, blistering or peeling
• Signs of severe allergic reaction such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing
• Unusual behaviour, confusion or hallucinations
• Signs of severe infection like high fever or persistent sore throat
• Yellowing of skin or eyes

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

Levetiracetam 500mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be taken only under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to levetiracetam or any ingredient in the tablet
• Have not been evaluated by a doctor for epilepsy or seizures

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney disease
• Have a history of depression, mood disorders or suicidal thoughts
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are elderly, as dose adjustment may be needed
• Have any known blood disorders

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other anti-epileptic medicines
• Sedatives or medicines that cause drowsiness
• Alcohol, which can increase drowsiness and dizziness
• Certain over-the-counter cold or allergy medicines that cause sedation

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drive after taking this medicine?

It may cause drowsiness or dizziness, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects.

How long do I need to take this medicine?

• Duration depends on your seizure condition and should be decided by your doctor; do not stop without medical advice.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.