Keppra

This page contains drug information on Keppra.
The information provided includes the following:
what is Keppra
the possible side effects of Keppra
what happens if you miss a dose of Keppra
what happens if you overdose with Keppra
the most important information about Keppra
how to use Keppra
other drugs that may affect Keppra
what to avoid while using Keppra
 
Generic Name: levetiracetam (lev e tear AH seh tam)
Brand Names: Keppra

What is the most important information I should know about keppra?
 •  Do not stop taking keppra without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. It is important to continue taking keppra to prevent the seizures from recurring. Stopping keppra 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.
 •  keppra may cause drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or poor coordination. Do not drive, operate dangerous machinery, or perform other hazardous activities until you know how keppra affects you. If you experience drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or poor coordination, avoid these activities.

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

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking keppra?
 •  Before taking keppra, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease. You may not be able to take keppra, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.
 •  keppra is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether keppra 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 keppra passes into breast milk. Do not take keppra without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take keppra?
 •  Take keppra 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 the oral tablets with a full glass of water.
 •  To ensure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid form of keppra with a dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
 •  keppra can be taken with or without food.
 •  It is important to take keppra regularly to get the most benefit.
 •  Do not stop taking keppra without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. It is important to continue taking keppra to prevent the seizures from recurring. Stopping keppra 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 keppra 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 keppra 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 keppra 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 keppra overdose are unknown but might include drowsiness.

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

What are the possible side effects of keppra?
 •  If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking keppra 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 keppra 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 keppra?
 •  keppra 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 keppra is taken with any of these medications.
 •  Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with keppra. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.