Indications 

Keppra is a prescribed medication utilized to alleviate the symptoms of partial onset seizures, tonic-clonic seizures, and myoclonic seizures. Keppra is used either as a monotherapy or as an adjunctive therapy with other medications. 

Keppra belongs to the class of drugs known as Anticonvulsants. This medication is currently unknown if deemed safe and effective in children who are younger than one month old when treating partial onset seizures, six years old for tonic-clonic seizures, and twelve years old when used for treating myoclonic seizures. 

Uses and Dosage 

To ensure safe and effective usage, Keppra must be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider, follow all directions on the prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. The prescribed dose may be occasionally modified by a doctor. 

Keppra should be taken at the same time each day, with or without food. Changes to brand, strength, or form of levetiracetam may alter an individual’s dose requirements.  

A child’s dose may also be affected by fluctuations in their weight. To prevent medication errors, use only the specific brand, form, and strength prescribed by the doctor. 

Carefully read and follow any Instructions for Use included with the medication. Seek clarification from a doctor or pharmacist if there are any doubts about the instructions. 

Keppra tablets should be swallowed whole and must not be crushed, chewed, or broken. It is essential to have kidney function tested as advised. 

All seizure medications should be used as directed, and the dose should not be modified or discontinued without the guidance of a doctor. Abrupt cessation of Keppra may result in an increase in seizures. Consult with a doctor before discontinuing the medication. 

Side Effects 

Allergic Reactions

Signs of an allergic reaction or severe skin reaction to Keppra: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling in your face or throat 
• Fever 
• Sore throat 
• Burning in your eyes 
• Skin pain 
• Red or purple skin rash that spreads and causes blistering and peeling 

Severe Side Effects

New or worsening symptoms to report to your doctor: 

• Mood or behavior changes 
• Depression 
• Anxiety 
• Panic attacks 
• Trouble sleeping 
• Feeling agitated, hostile, irritable, or hyperactive (mentally or physically) 
• Thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself 

Symptoms requiring immediate medical attention: 

• Unusual changes in mood or behavior 
• Confusion 
• Hallucinations 
• Extreme drowsiness 
• Feeling very weak or tired 
• Loss of balance or coordination 
• Problems with walking or movement 
• A skin rash, no matter how mild 
• Easy bruising 
• Unusual bleeding 
• Fever, chills, weakness, or other signs of infection 

Common Side Effects

• Dizziness 
• Drowsiness 
• Tiredness 
• Weakness 
• Feeling aggressive or irritable 
• Loss of appetite 
• Stuffy nose 
• Infection 

Caution 

Before initiating treatment with this prescription medication, you should provide a complete medical history to your healthcare provider, including any history of renal dysfunction, alcohol use disorder, or psychiatric disorders. Such conditions may significantly impact the response of your body to the medication.  

You should inform your healthcare provider of all prescription and nonprescription drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal products that you are taking, as they may interact with this anticonvulsant medication. 

While receiving this treatment, be vigilant for any signs of an allergic reaction. Avoid taking Keppra if you have a known hypersensitivity to levetiracetam or any inactive components present in each tablet. Immediately discontinue the medication and seek emergency medical assistance if you experience severe hypersensitivity reactions, such as angioedema, dizziness, skin rash, urticaria, or breathing difficulties. 

The consumption of alcohol while taking Keppra may increase the risk of central nervous system side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired concentration. Therefore, abstain from alcohol during treatment and exercise caution when performing activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. 

There is limited information on the potential effects of this anticonvulsant on fetal and neonatal development. Therefore, pregnant and lactating women should use this medication only if clearly indicated by their healthcare provider after a thorough risk-benefit evaluation.