What is the most important information I should know about levetiracetam?

• Do not stop taking levetiracetam without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. It is important to continue taking levetiracetam to prevent the seizures from recurring. Stopping levetiracetam suddenly may result in increased seizure frequency. If the medication needs to be stopped, your doctor may need to lower the dosage gradually.
  
  
• Carry or wear a medical identification tag to let others know that you are taking this medicine in the case of an emergency.
  
  
• Levetiracetam may cause drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or poor coordination. Do not drive, operate dangerous machinery, or perform other hazardous activities until you know how levetiracetam affects you. If you experience drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or poor coordination, avoid these activities.

What is levetiracetam?

• Levetiracetam is used to control seizures. The exact way that it works is unknown.
  
  
• Levetiracetam may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking levetiracetam?

• Before taking levetiracetam, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease. You may not be able to take levetiracetam, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.
  
  
• It is not known whether levetiracetam will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
  
  
• It is not known whether levetiracetam passes into breast milk. Do not take levetiracetam without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take levetiracetam?

• Take levetiracetam exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
  
  
• Take each dose of levetiracetam with a full glass of water.
  
  
• Levetiracetam can be taken with or without food.
  
  
• It is important to take levetiracetam regularly to get the most benefit.
  
  
• Do not stop taking levetiracetam without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. It is important to continue taking levetiracetam to prevent the seizures from recurring. Stopping levetiracetam suddenly may result in increased seizure frequency. If the medication needs to be stopped, your doctor may need to lower the dosage gradually.
  
  
• If treatment with levetiracetam is stopped for any reason, contact your doctor before restarting the medication. A lower dose may be needed to prevent side effects from occurring.
  
  
• Your doctor may want you to have blood tests or other medical evaluations during treatment with levetiracetam to monitor progress and side effects.
  
  
• Carry or wear a medical identification tag to let others know that you are taking this medicine in the case of an emergency.
  
  
• Store levetiracetam at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

• Seek emergency medical treatment if an overdose is suspected.
  
  
• Symptoms of a levetiracetam overdose are unknown but might include drowsiness.

What should I avoid while taking levetiracetam?

• Do not drink alcohol while taking levetiracetam. Alcohol may increase drowsiness or dizziness caused by levetiracetam. Alcohol may also increase the risk of seizures.
  
  
• Levetiracetam may cause drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or poor coordination. Do not drive, operate dangerous machinery, or perform other hazardous activities until you know how levetiracetam affects you. If you experience drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or poor coordination, avoid these activities.

What are the possible side effects of levetiracetam?

• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking levetiracetam and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
  
  
  
  • an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or
    
    
  • increasing frequency or worsening of seizures.
  
  
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take levetiracetam and talk to your doctor if you experience
  
  
  • dizziness;
    
    
  • drowsiness;
    
    
  • weakness or a loss of strength;
    
    
  • poor coordination or difficulty walking; or
    
    
  • changes in behavior or mood (agitation, hostility, anxiety, apathy, or depression).
  
  
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect levetiracetam?

• Levetiracetam may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if levetiracetam is taken with any of these medications.
  
  
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with levetiracetam. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

Disclaimer

The materials contained on the Epilepsy Newfoundland and Labrador website are to provide general information about epilepsy to the public. The information presented is not intended as medical or legal advice. Epilepsy Newfoundland and Labrador, its employees, board members, medical advisors, volunteers, agents and sponsors do not assume responsibility for inaccuracies or omissions or for the consequences from the use of the information obtained over this site or any links accessed through this site. Epilepsy Newfoundland and Labrador is not liable for any outcome or damages resulting from information in either a direct or indirect form. We recognize that each individual's experience of epilepsy is different. Consult your physician and/or neurologist with any questions you have.