GENERIC NAME: LEVETIRACETAM - ORAL (lev-eh-turr-RASS-ih-tam)

BRAND NAME(S): Keppra

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: This medication is used in combination with other medications to treat seizures disorders (epilepsy).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually twice daily; or take as directed by your doctor. This drug may be taken with or without food. Levetiracetam is best taken at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day to ensure a constant level of drug in the body. Do not take this drug more often or increase your dose without consulting your doctor. Do not stop taking this drug suddenly without your doctor's approval since seizures may reoccur. If this medication does not control your seizures, notify your doctor.

SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, headache, loss of coordination (e.g., difficulty walking, muscle control) may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. In most patients, if side effects occur with this medication, they usually occur in the first month of treatment. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these serious side effects: mental/mood changes, unusual weakness (e.g., anemia), vision problems. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, including: any allergies, kidney disease, blood disorders (anemia), depression, seizures. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy, especially during the first month of treatment. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

Epilepsy (Seizure Disorder) - Learn about epilepsy, or seizure disorder. Causes include head injury, trauma, prenatal injury, poisoning, medications, stroke, heart attacks, alcoholism, infection, and more. Symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment information is included in the information. Source:Government Epilepsy Treatment - Information on Epilepsy treatment includes how epilepsy is treated, drug therapy, side effects, and surgery. Source:WebMD Medical Reference from The Cleveland Clinic Read 17 more levetiracetam-oral related articles ... Suicide Risk From 11 Epilepsy Drugs