Keppra (Levetiracetam) for Epilepsy

Overview
Keppra is a prescription medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Keppra is prescribed for the treatment of partial onset seizures in people with epilepsy ages one month and older; myoclonic seizures in adults and adolescents 12 years and older with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy; and primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in adults and children 6 years and older with idiopathic generalized epilepsy. Keppra is usually prescribed as an adjunctive medicine to be taken with other antiepileptic drugs. Keppra is also known by its drug name, levetiracetam.

Keppra is an anticonvulsant, or drug that is used to control seizures. It is believed that Keppra works in cases of epilepsy by inhibiting nerve signals.

How do I take it?
Keppra is taken orally as a liquid or tablet twice a day. Your doctor will likely start you on a low dose of Keppra and gradually increase the dosage. Keppra may be given as an injection by medical professionals in situations where it is not possible to take it orally.

Avoid driving or operating machinery until you are certain you understand how Keppra affects you.

Do not stop taking Keppra suddenly. If you decide to stop taking Keppra, consult your physician for a plan to taper off gradually.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions exactly when taking Keppra.

Side effects
Common side effects of Keppra include drowsiness, weakness, infection and dizziness.

Call your doctor if you experience mood swings, changes in behavior, or suicidal thoughts while taking Keppra.

Rare but serious side effects of Keppra include increases in blood pressure and changes in the blood cell count.

For more information about this treatment, visit:

Keppra — U.S. Food and Drug Administration
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/...

Keppra — RxList
https://www.rxlist.com/keppra-drug.htm