Levetiracetam Tablets
| Product/Composition:- | Levetiracetam Tablets |
|---|---|
| Strength:- | 250mg, 500mg, 750mg |
| Form:- | Tablets |
| Production Capacity | 10 Million Tablet/Month |
| Packaging:- | 10 X 10 Tablets / Box |
| Therapeutic use:- | Anti convulsant |
| Package Insert/Leaflet: | Available upon request |
What is Levetiracetam?
Levetiracetam is an anticonvulsant medication that is commonly used to treat seizures. It regulates electrical discharge in the brain and is primarily prescribed to epilepsy patients.
Chemically distinct from other drugs used for epilepsy, Levetiracetam acts through a distinct mechanism and has oral, intravenous, and extended-release formulations.
Levetiracetam is marketed under various brand names, one of which is Keppra. This drug has been well-accepted due to its efficacy and good tolerance, particularly in non-compliant patients to standard seizure therapy.
Uses of Levetiracetam Tablets
Levetiracetam tablets are primarily used to manage epilepsy and prevent seizures in individuals diagnosed with this condition. It works as a monotherapy and a complementing treatment as well.
The drugs assist in reducing myoclonal seizures, partial-onset seizures, and generalised tonic-clonal seizures.
Many times, this treatment is recommended after other antiepileptic medications have failed or produced unbearable adverse effects.
Levetiracetam is also useful in treating seizures that occur as a result of neurological trauma, brain tumours, or infectious diseases affecting the brain.
Levetiracetam is recommended for a wide range of seizure disorders. It is suitable for adults and children, depending on the type and intensity of seizures experienced.
Levetiracetam is indicated in epilepsy patients for the following:
Benefits
Levetiracetam tends to provide several benefits, especially to those patients who are intolerant to other antiepileptic drugs. Its pharmacological action renders it suitable for treatment management.
Fast onset of activity and effective seizure control. Minimal risk of interaction with other medications
Suitable for prolonged use with minimal toxicity. Fewer cognitive and behavioural side effects in adults
Simple dosing regimen and favourable formulations
How Does It Work?
Levetiracetam binds to the synaptic vesicle protein SV2A in the brain. This binding regulates neurotransmitter release and limits the propagation of abnormal electrical activity that leads to seizures.
Unlike other antiepileptics that act by blocking sodium channels or GABA receptors, Levetiracetam’s binding mechanism is unique, resulting in its lower side-effect profile.
It does not significantly affect normal neuronal excitability; thus, it is safer for long-term use and less likely to interfere with cognitive functions.
Dosage Guidelines
Dosage is individualized based on the patient’s age, body weight, medical background, and the type of seizures being managed.
Be sure to adhere strictly to your doctor’s prescription to prevent side effects or loss of effectiveness.
Levetiracetam must be taken exactly as directed to help keep seizures under control. It can be administered with or without food and is best taken with a full glass of water.
Swallow tablets properly without trying to chew or crush them. Take them at the same times daily for optimal results.
Do not skip doses or take extra doses to compensate for missed doses. Always speak with your doctor before changing your dosage.
Correct use ensures a steady state of medication in the blood, which is crucial for seizure control.
Adhere to your doctor’s advice rigorously. Take the medicine even if you feel fine.
Notify your doctor about other medications or supplements. Track seizure activity to monitor the effectiveness of the medicine.
Levetiracetam dosage is often divided into two doses daily. It can also vary with the patient’s illness and response to the drug.
When Not to Use:
Levetiracetam is not suitable for everyone. In certain instances, it must be given up or administered under strict medical surveillance.
Allergic to Levetiracetam or any of its components. Severe renal impairment that is not adjusted for doses. History of serious psychiatric illnesses.
Pregnancy and lactation unless absolutely unavoidable. In infants less than 1 month except in specific cases.
Can Take With Other Medicines
One of the biggest advantages of Levetiracetam is that it has minimal drug interactions, making it a very good candidate for combination therapy.
Compatible with most antiepileptic medications. It can be given with some of the antibiotics, antihypertensives, and diabetic medications
Safe with antidepressants and statins, with monitoring. Typically, it does not interact with oral contraceptives
Medications to Monitor
Few drug interactions exist for Levetiracetam, but some require caution. Sedation can be enhanced by alcohol and benzodiazepines. Methotrexate may affect clearance as well as efficacy.
Sedation, as well as functioning, can be affected by opioids. Warfarin patients should be monitored regularly for INR.
Other antiepileptics may require dosing adjustments for optimal seizure management and fewer adverse effects.
Safety Advice
Safety under Levetiracetam treatment needs to be monitored by doctors, along with the patient’s education. Patients must report side effects and avoid dangerous behaviour until they know how the medication affects them.
Don’t drive or use tools until you know how the drug makes you feel. Watch for changes in mood, irritability, or depression.
Notify your doctor about any kidney problems or medication changes. Never discontinue suddenly, as it may lead to rebound seizures.
Pregnant women need to be under close observation while taking this medication.
Patients are concerned about initiating Levetiracetam, an antiepileptic medication. Most adverse effects, such as dizziness and fatigue, resolve with continued use.
Irritability can happen, particularly in children. Suicidal thoughts are uncommon but warrant immediate attention. Routine healthcare visits are necessary for observation.
Levetiracetam has preventive measures for complications. It can trigger suicidal thoughts and mood changes in patients with a psychiatric history.
Regular kidney function checks are required in elderly patients. Sudden withdrawal will result in serious seizures.
Avoid pregnancy unless necessary under close supervision. Monitor psychiatric patients carefully for worsening of symptoms.
Patients should report any medical problems to their doctor before they take Levetiracetam. They should avoid alcohol since it can enhance side effects or induce seizures.
Concentration-demanding activities such as driving should be avoided until the drug’s effects are established.
Pregnant ladies should ask their doctor about the hazards. Regular follow-ups are essential for observing kidney function and mental state for safe administration.
What Else Can I Do to Help My Condition?
Managing epilepsy is not just about medication; healthy habits are important, too. Sufficient sleeping is important since it may trigger seizures in its absence.
Stress management through therapy, meditation, or yoga is key. Prevention of provoking things such as flashing lights or alcohol is important.
Keeping a seizure diary helps you observe patterns and assess medication. Support groups offer emotional encouragement and coping advice.
Comparison with phenytoin or carbamazepine
Levetiracetam has different efficacy and side effects from antiepileptics such as phenytoin and carbamazepine.
Its greatest benefit is having fewer drug interactions, such as those seen in phenytoin, which can damage your liver and cause gum disease.
Carbamazepine can decrease sodium levels and blood counts. Levetiracetam produces fewer cognitive effects and less drowsiness but can affect children’s behaviour. Overall, it is considered a safer, newer drug.
What Not to Do
Steer clear of habits with Levetiracetam in order not to experience complications. Skipped doses can lead to seizures.
Drinking alcohol and taking drugs make it less effective and enhance side effects. Exercise caution when administering this dosage; consult your physician prior to intake.
Avoid driving or handling machinery until you are accustomed to the drug. Sharing it is illegal as well as dangerous. Avoid exposure to the sun unless your doctor instructs otherwise.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage of Levetiracetam ensures its effectiveness and safety for use. Always follow the packaging instructions and dispose of unused tablets responsibly.
Keep the levetiracetam tablets below 25°C, out of light, and out of the reach of children. Dispose of unused medication at a pharmacy to avoid risking safety or effectiveness if used after expiry.