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levetiracetam - oral, Keppra

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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

USES: This medication is used in combination with other medications to treat seizure disorders (epilepsy). Levetiracetam has been shown to decrease the number of seizures in adults and children with a certain type of seizure (partial onset). It is not known how it works to prevent seizures.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using levetiracetam and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions regarding the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually twice daily or as directed by your doctor. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure your dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.If you are using the long-acting tablets, take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once daily or as directed by your doctor. Swallow the long-acting tablets whole. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. To reduce your risk of side effects (e.g., drowsiness, dizziness), your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. The dosage in children is also based on weight. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often 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 condition may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.Tell your doctor if your seizures persist, change, or worsen.

SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, tiredness, constipation, and loss of coordination (e.g., difficulty walking and controlling muscles) 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 persist or worsen, notify your doctor.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she 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 immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: hair loss, neck pain, vision changes (e.g., double vision).A small number of people who take anticonvulsants for any condition (such as seizure, bipolar disorder, pain) may experience depression, suicidal thoughts/attempts, or other mental/mood problems. Tell your doctor immediately 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.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: unusual weakness, easy bleeding/bruising, signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat).A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: 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.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

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