Keppra

Keppra is used to control partial onset seizures in adults and children with epilepsy.

Doctors prescribe Levetiracetam injection for the following:

• Partial onset seizures in adults and babies, and can be used for babies at least 1 month old
• Myoclonic seizures in patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, and can be used in adolescents at least 12 years of age
• Primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures

This form of Levetiracetam injection is given by infusing it into the veins. Levetiracetam injection is usually given to patients that cannot take Levetiracetam tablets. Doctors prescribe Levetiracetam injection for a limited time only and usually, switch to oral tablets for continued treatment.

Epilepsy is a disorder of the brain that causes repeated seizures. Seizure originates when a group of brain cells causes abnormal electrical activity. The exact mechanism of how Levetiracetam works on seizures is not completely understood, but it is thought to inhibit brain cells from burst firing and spreading erratic electrical activity.

Levetiracetam injection is a prescription drug. You need to receive Levetiracetam injection in a clinical setting.

Levetiracetam is associated with psychotic behavior and suicidal behavior. Only use Levetiracetam injection according to doctor’s instructions.

Before using Keppra, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it.

You cannot use Levetiracetam injection if you experienced allergies to Levetiracetam. If you have allergies to Levetiracetam, tell it to your doctor.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, tell it to your doctor before receiving Levetiracetam injection. Levetiracetam is an FDA category C drug, which means it can harm the unborn baby in pregnant patients. Levetiracetam may be expressed in breast milk, so do not nurse when receiving the drug.

Tell all your health problems to your doctor before receiving Levetiracetam injection.

The doctor need to know if you have the following health problems before prescribing Levetiracetam injection:

• Having problems with the kidneys
• Having dialysis treatments
• History of mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorders
• History of self-harm or suicidal behavior

If you are drinking alcohol regularly or at large quantities, tell it to your doctor before receiving Levetiracetam injection. Alcohol can enhance the drowsiness caused by Levetiracetam injection.

Tell all the medicines and herbal supplements you take to the doctor before receiving Levetiracetam injection to avoid interactions.

Levetiracetam injection may interact with the following medicines:

• Propoxyphene
• Buprenorphine
• Sodium oxybate

To use Keppra properly, you must follow all instructions given by your doctor.

Levetiracetam injection is given by injecting it into your veins (intravenous route). Health professionals will give Levetiracetam injection to you, and you can only have it in the hospital or doctor’s clinic.

The doctor will determine your dose. Levetiracetam injection is usually given twice a day.

Levetiracetam is infused very slowly and usually takes around 15 minutes.

If you missed a dose of Levetiracetam injection, call your doctor right away.

A health professional will give you Levetiracetam injection, so overdose is unlikely.

Before using Keppra, there are some precautions you must take.

Levetiracetam injection may cause drowsiness or dizziness, which can affect you when doing activities like driving or doing dangerous tasks. Taking alcohol can worsen dizziness caused by Levetiracetam injection.

The doctor will schedule regular clinic appointments and lab tests to check your condition and detect early signs of side effects.

Do not stop receiving Levetiracetam injection abruptly. Doing so can cause seizures and increase the risk of side effects. The doctor will gradually taper your dose. Do not stop or change your dose of Levetiracetam without doctor’s instructions.

Treatment with Levetiracetam may cause increased risk of injurious behavior and mood disorders. Thus, individuals taking Levetiracetam injection may need monitoring especially if they have a history of mood disorders and suicidal behavior.

The elderly and children may need closer monitoring when receiving Levetiracetam injection because they are more sensitive to its effects.

If you receive care from another doctor or dentist, make sure they know you are receiving Levetiracetam injection. Levetiracetam injection may change results of lab tests, so tell your providers you are taking medication.

If you became pregnant or breastfeeding while receiving Levetiracetam injection, tell it to your doctor right away.

As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Keppra.

Tell the doctor if you experience the following side effects while receiving Levetiracetam injection:

• Severe allergic reactions such as rash, itching, difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue or throat
• Redness, swelling, blistering or peeling of skin
• Hallucinations, depression, agitation, aggression, anxiety, panic attacks and restlessness
• Memory loss
• Severe and persistent dizziness, drowsiness or a headache
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Jaundice
• Severe tiredness or weakness
• Vision changes
• Neck or muscle pain
• Disturbing or abnormal thoughts
• Fever, chills or a sore throat
• New or worsening seizures
• Passing out dark urine
• Problems in standing or movement
• Fever, chills, and sore throat

Levetiracetam injection may cause minor side effects such as:

• Cough
• Low appetite
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Headache
• Irritability
• Nausea
• Irritation of nose or throat
• Stuffy nose
• Stomach pain
• Insomnia
• Vomiting
• Weakness