Product Description
Levetiracetam 500mg tablets are an anticonvulsant medication used to treat seizures (epilepsy). It belongs to a class of drugs known as anticonvulsants and may decrease the number of seizures you have.
Here's a breakdown of key information based on the provided search results:
How It Works:
The exact mechanism of how levetiracetam works is unknown, but it is believed to affect the release of certain neurotransmitters in the brain that are involved in causing seizures.
Uses:
- Partial-Onset Seizures: Levetiracetam is used to treat partial-onset seizures, which start in one part of the brain and may spread to other areas.
- Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizures: It can also be used to treat generalized tonic-clonic seizures, which affect the entire brain.
Dosage and Administration:
- Adults: The usual starting dose is 500mg twice daily. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your individual needs and response to treatment.
- Children: The dosage for children is based on their weight and age. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose for your child.
Side Effects:
- Common: Drowsiness, dizziness, unusual tiredness, or weakness are common side effects, especially during the first four weeks of treatment. These side effects usually lessen as your body adjusts to the medication.
- Serious: Serious side effects are rare but can include:
- Loss of coordination (difficulty walking and controlling muscles)
- Mental/mood changes (irritability, aggression, agitation, anger, anxiety)
- Signs of anemia (unusual tiredness, pale skin, fast breathing, fast heartbeat)
- Easy bruising/bleeding
- Depression, suicidal thoughts/attempts, or other mental/mood problems
- Rash (which could be a sign of a severe reaction)
- Allergic reaction (fever, swollen lymph nodes, rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)
Precautions:
- Allergies: Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to levetiracetam or any other ingredients in the medication.
- Medical History: Tell your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions, especially:
- Kidney disease
- Mental/mood disorders
- Drowsiness: Levetiracetam can cause drowsiness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
- Alcohol and Marijuana: Alcohol and marijuana can increase drowsiness. Limit alcoholic beverages and talk to your doctor about using marijuana.
- Surgery: Inform your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) before having surgery.
- Children: Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of levetiracetam, especially mental/mood changes. Children younger than 4 years may be at greater risk for increased blood pressure.
- Older Adults: Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects, especially drowsiness, dizziness, or loss of coordination.
- Pregnancy: Levetiracetam should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Breastfeeding: Levetiracetam passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions:
- Orlistat: Orlistat may interact with levetiracetam.
Overdose:
If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include slow/shallow breathing and loss of consciousness.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Storage:
Store levetiracetam tablets at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before taking levetiracetam or any other medication. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual health needs and medical history.
