Keppra (levetiracetam) is an antiepileptic medication used to treat various types of seizures. It is often prescribed for both adults and children and works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain.
Product Highlights
Partial-Onset Seizures: As adjunctive therapy in adults and children aged 1 month and older.
Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizures: As adjunctive therapy in adults and children aged 6 years and older.
Myoclonic Seizures: As adjunctive therapy in adults and children aged 12 years and older.
Key Ingredient
Levetiracetam
Key Benefits
Effective for multiple types of seizures, making it suitable for various epilepsy syndromes.
Lower risk of interactions with other medications compared to some other antiepileptic drugs.
Generally well-tolerated with a favorable side effect profile for many patients.
Direction of Use
Administered based on individual patient needs, typically starting at a low dose and gradually increasing.
Can be taken with or without food; the oral solution should be measured accurately.
Regular follow-ups are necessary to assess efficacy and adjust dosages as needed.
Recommended dosing in children aged 4 years and older
Weight
Starting dose: 10 mg/kg twice daily
Maximum dose: 30 mg/kg twice daily
15 kg (1)
150 mg (1.5 mL) twice daily
450 mg (4.5 mL) twice daily
20 kg (1)
200 mg (2.0 mL) twice daily
600 mg (6.0 mL) twice daily
25 kg
250 mg (2.5 mL) twice daily
750 mg (7.5 mL) twice daily
From 50 kg (2)
500 mg (5.0 mL) twice daily
1500 mg (15 mL) twice daily
Safety Concerns
Risk of mood changes, anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts in some patients.
Can cause sedation or dizziness, especially when starting treatment or increasing the dose.
Rare cases of blood dyscrasias, including thrombocytopenia, necessitate monitoring.
Avoid Keppra (Levetiracetam) If
Known allergy to levetiracetam or any of its components.
Dose adjustments may be necessary; consult a physician if severe renal dysfunction is present.
Caution in patients with a history of severe depression or suicidal behavior.
