Keppra

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Keppra, the brand name for levetiracetam, is an anticonvulsant medication used primarily to manage and treat epilepsy. It is effective in reducing the frequency of seizures in various types of epilepsy, including partial onset seizures, myoclonic seizures, and tonic-clonic seizures in adults and children. Available in several forms, including tablets, oral, and injectable solutions, Keppra modulates neurotransmitter activity in the brain to reduce seizure activity.

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Description

Keppra’s mechanism, though not fully understood, is believed to involve the inhibition of voltage-dependent N-type calcium channels and modulation of neurotransmitter release, which aids in stabilizing neuronal activity and preventing excessive electrical activity in the brain. This action helps in controlling seizures without being directly related to conventional GABAergic signaling pathways, which sets it apart from many other antiepileptic drugs.

Additional information

Usage

Keppra is indicated for:

● Treatment of partial-onset seizures in adults and children one month of age and older.
● Treatment of myoclonic seizures in adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy.
● Treatment of primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in adults and children six years of age and older with idiopathic generalized epilepsy.

Patients are advised to:

● Follow their healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosing and administration of Keppra.
● Not to discontinue use suddenly, as this may increase seizure frequency.
● Monitor for mood changes, as Keppra can cause mood disturbances and behavioral changes.

Administration:

● Keppra can be taken with or without food.
● The tablets should be swallowed whole, not chewed or crushed.
● Measure liquid forms of Keppra with a supplied dosing syringe or with a dose-measuring device.

Precautions:

● Keppra may cause drowsiness or dizziness; caution is advised when operating heavy machinery or driving.
● It has been associated with mood changes and psychiatric symptoms; patients should be monitored for signs of depression or suicidal thoughts.
● Keppra should be used with caution in patients with kidney impairment, as dosage adjustments may be necessary.

Drug Interactions:

● Caution is advised when taken in conjunction with other central nervous system depressants, which can exacerbate sedative effects.
● There are no significant known metabolic interactions, as Keppra does not undergo extensive hepatic metabolism, reducing the risk of pharmacokinetic interactions.

Side Effects

● Drowsiness
● Dizziness
● Fatigue
● Coordination difficulties

Serious side effects that require medical attention include:

● Severe rash or hypersensitivity reactions.
● Mood changes, including signs of depression, agitation, or suicidal thoughts.
● Unexplained weakness or muscle pain, particularly if accompanied by fever or jaundice.

Storage

● Store at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.
● Do not store in the bathroom, and keep all medications out of the reach of children.

Special Precautions

Before starting Keppra, patients should inform their healthcare provider if they:

● Have a history of depression, mood disorders, or suicidal thoughts.
● Have kidney disease, as dosage adjustment may be required.
● Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Overdose

An overdose of Keppra can be serious, leading to symptoms such as extreme drowsiness, aggression, respiratory depression, and even coma. Emergency medical attention should be sought immediately if an overdose is suspected.

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