Introduction

Levetiracetam (lee-va-tye-RA-se-tam)

Treats seizures that are caused by epilepsy. This medicine is an antiepileptic.

Brand Name(s)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

Keppra

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to levetiracetam.

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins. The needle should remain in place for about 15 minutes.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

If a dose is missed:

• Call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using other medicines to treat or prevent seizures.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease or if you are on dialysis.
• This medicine may cause changes in mood or behavior, problems with coordination, or unusual tiredness or weakness. Tell your doctor right away if you start to feel more depressed or if you have thoughts about hurting yourself. Report any unusual thoughts or behaviors that trouble you, especially if they are new or getting worse quickly.
• Do not stop using this medicine suddenly without asking your doctor. You may need to slowly decrease your dose before stopping it completely.
• This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
• Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Extreme sleepiness, tiredness, or weakness.
• Fever, chills, cough, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and body aches.
• Increased seizures.
• Problems with balance, coordination, or walking.
• Unusual thoughts, mood, or behavior.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Dizziness.
• Double vision.
• Headache.
• Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088