Roweepra (Levetiracetam) for Epilepsy

Overview
Roweepra is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of partial-onset seizures in individuals aged 1 month and older. It is also approved as an adjunctive therapy (taken with other medications) for myoclonic seizures in those aged 12 years and older with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy and primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in those aged 6 years and older with idiopathic generalized epilepsy. Roweepra is also known by its drug name, levetiracetam.

Roweepra belongs to the anticonvulsant drug category. It is believed to work by modifying the release of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers in the brain), which helps to stabilize electrical activity and reduce the frequency of seizures.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Roweepra is taken orally, typically as film-coated tablets, or as an oral solution for children weighing 20 kilograms (around 44 pounds) or less. The dosing schedule varies based on age, weight, and the type of seizure disorder being treated. For adults and children, the dose is gradually increased every two weeks until the recommended dose is reached. Roweepra should be taken exactly as prescribed by a health care provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Roweepra include somnolence (drowsiness), asthenia (weakness), dizziness, fatigue, aggression, nasal congestion, decreased appetite, and irritability.

Rare but serious side effects may include suicidal thoughts or behavior, psychotic symptoms, serious skin reactions, drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), and coordination difficulties such as ataxia (impaired balance or coordination). Those taking the drug should also be monitored for withdrawal seizures if the medication is stopped abruptly.

For more information about this treatment, visit:

Label: Roweepra — Levetiracetam Tablet — DailyMed