Uses and ingredients of Keppra (levetiracetam)

This is an automatically translated article.


Posted by Pharmacist Nguyen Le Thuy Dung - Clinical Pharmacist - Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital
Keppra is an anti-epileptic drug that comes in the form of a film-coated tablet containing the active ingredient levetiracetam. To ensure the effectiveness of treatment, as well as avoid side effects, patients need to strictly follow the instructions of the doctor or pharmacist.

1. In what cases is Keppra indicated? Keppra is a film-coated tablet containing the active ingredient levetiracetam, which is an antiepileptic drug. On the Vietnamese market, Keppra@ tablets have 2 strengths: 250mg and 500mg. Accordingly, Keppra is indicated for the following conditions:
As monotherapy for the treatment of partial-onset seizures with or without secondary generalization in people 16 years of age and older, new diagnosed with epilepsy.
In addition, the drug is also used in combination in the treatment of:
Partial-onset seizures with or without secondary generalization in children 4 years of age and older with epilepsy. Myoclonic seizures in adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy. Primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in individuals 12 years of age and older with idiopathic generalized epilepsy.

Thuốc Keppra là một loại thuốc chống động kinh được bào chế dưới dạng viên nén bao phim
Thuốc Keppra là một loại thuốc chống động kinh được bào chế dưới dạng viên nén bao phim

2. Dosage and administration of Keppra Depending on the clinical condition, age and kidney function of the patient, the dose of Keppra will be different.
Keppra @ tablets are usually taken 2 times per day, can be taken with or without meals and should be used at a fixed time each day to avoid cases of forgetting.

3. Some unwanted effects when using Keppra In addition to questions like keppra 500mg how much or how much is keppra 500mg, many people are interested in side effects when using the drug. Accordingly, some side effects have been recorded when using Keppra as follows:
Very common: nasopharyngitis, drowsiness, headache Common: anorexia, depression, opposition, anxiety, insomnia , restlessness, dizziness, cough... Uncommon: forgetfulness, memory impairment, concentration disorder, hair loss, weight loss, weight gain,... Rare: pancytopenia, leukopenia neutropenia, hyponatremia, suicidal behavior, personality disorder....

Buồn ngủ, đau đầu là tác dụng phụ được ghi nhận khi sử dụng thuốc Keppra
Buồn ngủ, đau đầu là tác dụng phụ được ghi nhận khi sử dụng thuốc Keppra

4. Precautions while using Keppra Stopping the medication suddenly may increase the risk of a seizure. Therefore, patients should not stop taking the drug suddenly and need to gradually reduce the dose under the direction of the doctor.
In addition, patients should be monitored for signs of depression and/or suicidal ideation and behavior when using antiepileptic drugs. In particular, patients should see a doctor immediately if these signs appear.
In addition, when using Keppra, patients should be monitored for seizure frequency, duration and severity of seizures, behavioral and psychological changes, kidney function, blood count.

5. Should Keppra be used by pregnant and lactating women? Currently, there are insufficient data on the use of Keppra in pregnant women. The drug can cross the placenta, but there is no evidence that it increases the risk of birth defects in the unborn baby. Animal studies have shown toxicity to fertility.
Keppra is not recommended while breastfeeding because the drug is likely to be excreted in breast milk. Patients need to weigh the risks and benefits when using it.
In summary, Keppra is a fairly common antiepileptic drug. The drug can cause some unwanted side effects. Therefore, patients need to follow the doctor's instructions and carefully read the instructions for use of the drug.

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