Keppra

Keppra: an antiepileptic drug from Belgium

Keppra (international name: levetiracetam) is an antiepileptic drug that is widely used to treat patients with partial epilepsy. The drug is produced in Belgium by USB S.A. and is available in three dosage forms: 250 mg film-coated tablets, 500 mg film-coated tablets and 1000 mg film-coated tablets.

Keppra belongs to the pharmaceutical group “Miscellaneous anticonvulsants and antispastic drugs”. The active substance of the drug is levetiracetam. In addition, Keppra contains various auxiliary components.

Like any other medicine, Keppra has its contraindications and side effects. Thus, the drug should not be used in case of hypersensitivity to levetiracetam or other pyrrolidone derivatives, as well as to any components of the drug. In addition, the use of Keppra is contraindicated during pregnancy, lactation and under the age of 16 years.

Possible side effects of Keppra include drowsiness, asthenic syndrome, dizziness, headache, anorexia, diarrhea, dyspepsia, nausea, ataxia, convulsions, depressive syndrome, emotional instability, aggressiveness, insomnia, nervousness, tremor, skin rash and diplopia.

Keppra does not interact with other antiepileptic drugs such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, valproic acid, phenobarbital, lamotrigine, gabapentin and primidone.

In case of an overdose of Keppra, symptoms such as drowsiness, anxiety, aggression, depression of consciousness, respiratory depression and coma may occur. Treatment in such cases consists of taking activated carbon and gastric lavage. If necessary, symptomatic treatment is carried out in a hospital setting using hemodialysis.

When using Keppra, it is recommended to gradually reduce the dose before stopping the drug. It is also advisable to gradually discontinue concomitant antiepileptic drugs during the period of transfer of patients to levetiracetam.

Finally, drivers of vehicles and people whose profession is associated with increased concentration and quick reactions should not use Keppra while working, as the drug can cause drowsiness and dizziness.

Overall, Keppra is an effective antiepileptic drug that can help control partial seizures. However, the use of the drug should only be carried out as prescribed by a doctor and under his supervision. You must follow the dosage recommendations and do not exceed the recommended dose without consulting your doctor.