Keppra

Generic Name: Levetiracetam
Brand Name: Keppra
Drug Form: Oral tablets
Drug Type: Antiepileptic drug

Keppra is the brand name for levetiracetam, one of the most widely prescribed medicines in the treatment of epilepsy. Its proven efficacy and safety bring a reputation to being the drug of choice for types of seizures. So, if you are considering taking this medication as part of your treatment plan, it is most important to learn what it is used for, along with its side effects, warnings, and precautions.

Overview of Keppra

Keppra is an anticonvulsant drug that works for preventing seizures by stopping abnormal electrical activities in the brain. Unlike the previous broad-acting anticonvulsants that affected the entire central nervous system, the modern anti-seizure medicines are narrowly targeted phenomenons. It binds a specific protein in the brain known as SV2A, apparently believed to control the release of neurotransmitters. It works well in managing seizures while bothering people less about unwanted effects because it is targeted. 

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Keppra is a versatile preparation available in various formulary options, including immediate-released, extended-release, and oral solutions. The flexibility accommodates patients with very diverse age ranges-from young children to older adults. It also comes in an injectable form for the hospital, requiring quick intervention. Keppra is a new drug, having received FDA approval in 1999, and is becoming a major drug in the treatment of epilepsy because of its efficacy, toleration, and relative safety from drug interactions.

Keppra Uses

Partial-Onset Seizures

Partial-onset or focal seizures start in an area of the brain and manifest in different ways, such as twitching or even more complicated manifestations. Keppra is especially helpful for such types of seizures, recently diagnosed patients, and patients with refractory epilepsy.

Tonic-Clonic Seizures

Tonic-clonic seizures are severe seizures that were previously referred to as grand mal seizures. Their name is derived from the intense electrical activity across the whole brain that results in loss of consciousness and convulsions. Keppra is often prescribed alone or with other medication for management of these seizure types.

Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy (JME) 

Keppra had brilliant results in treating the myoclonic seizures of JME, where short jerks of muscles occur suddenly and briefly. These attitudes are mostly due to the stress or lack of sleep. The quick onset and the smooth profile of the medication make it a good candidate for adolescents and young adults. 

Seizure Preventing After Brain Injury

Although not technically approved for it, Keppra is an off-label application in seizure prevention for patients recovering from either a traumatic brain injury or neurosurgery. It also has a very good safety profile for use in the short term.

Adjunctive Therapy for Refractory Epilepsy

In those whose seizures are not well controlled by other medicines, Keppra is added to the regimen. Since it works differently from all the anticonvulsants, it contributes to a better overall seizure control.

Keppra Side Effects

Tiredness and Drowsiness

Fatigue and drowsiness among Keppra users were some of the very first complaints. The effects caught up with daily activities, especially at the commencement of medication or when increasing the dose. Fatigue usually subsides after establishing a routine schedule that accommodates the side effects in some people.

Dizziness

Dizziness or a light-headed feeling while rising quickly from a sitting or lying position has also happened. Keeping well hydrated and eliminating sudden movements should diminish this effect.

Mood Change

Mood changes, irritability, depression, and anxiety all seem to be associated with Keppra. Though fairly mild, some people can have serious emotional distress. It is important to contact your provider immediately to report any drastic mood changes.

Loss of Appetite

The users reported decreased appetite and spattering weight loss. Weight-related people may need to change their eating habits or intensify management as this side effect may complicate healthy weight maintenance.

Gastrointestinal Issues

Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort can be possible side effects, especially in early treatment. The symptoms can improve significantly if you take Keppra with meals.

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Warnings for Keppra

Psychiatric Symptoms

Keppra is very infrequently implicated with psychological symptoms like aggression, paranoia, and suicidal ideation. Severe but rare effects; Intensive supervision is imperative, particularly for the first few months of treatment or in instances of alterations in dosage.

Allergic Reactions

Rash, swelling, and difficulty breathing are extreme but rare allergic reactions to Keppra. If any of these symptoms develop, immediate medical attention is required.

Increased frequency of Seizures

Surprisingly, Keppra could yield an increase in seizure frequency or intensity in a minuscule minority of users. Schedule regular follow-up visits with your physician to ensure the patient is not undergoing a diversionary path toward treatment.

Effect on Kidney Function

Keppra is eliminated largely through the kidneys; thus, an individual with kidney impairment may need to receive adjusted doses. Routine blood tests may also need to be carried out to monitor kidney health throughout treatment.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Keppra crosses into the placenta and is found in breast milk, which is why the use of the drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be evaluated against possible complications. Women who are pregnant or considering becoming pregnant should consult a healthcare professional for their options.

Before Taking Keppra

Always have excellent communication about all relevant topics with the health care provider before the commencement of Keppra. Make the full history known to him or her, including mood disorders, kidney issues, and/or allergies. Disclose every single medication that is still in use, whether prescription or otherwise, as well as any dietary supplements or herbal remedies. 

Notify your doctor if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. While Keppra probably is safer than most other older anticonvulsants, its effects on a developing fetus or nursing infant should be carefully evaluated.

Keppra Dosage Information

Dosing is highly individualized and based on age and weight, the type of seizures, and kidney function while prescribing Keppra. A typical starting dose for adults and teenagers from 12 years of age is 500 mg twice a day. The dose can be increased gradually based on the response observed and tolerance, with a maximum dose of 3000 mg per day.

Dosing for children is calculated according to body weight and adjusted as the child grows. If you forget to take a dose, just take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one.

Keppra Interactions

Central Nervous System Depressants Keppra increases fatigue in conjunction with alcohol and other CNS depressants and impairs motor coordination.

Other Antiepileptic Drugs Keppra has minor interaction when coupled with the addition of most other antiepileptic drugs; however, the dose should be adjusted accordingly for optimized seizure control.

1. Oral Contraceptives: Not a major interaction with hormonal contraception, but it is always appropriate to verify that with your doctor.
2. Kideny-Influencing Medicines: In addition to the above, NSAIDs or particular antibiotics may need close integration when taking Keppra.
3. Over-the-counter Medications: OTC antihistamines or cough and cold remedies intensify Keppra's sedative effects. Always check with a pharmacist or medical physician before taking any new OTC medications.

Keppra Precautions

1. Do not stop abruptly: Sudden withdrawal from Keppra can cause seizures which should be done under medical supervision.
2. Be alert to your psychological state: Be alert to possible signs of depressed mood, potential aggression, and changes in mood. 
3. Hydrate: Proper hydration reduces dizziness and other side effects. Abstinence from Alcohol: Alcohol has additive sedating effects with respect to both cognitive and motor
4. functions. Routine check-ups: Regular medical evaluations including probably kidney function tests are required for long-term safety.

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Conclusion

Keppra's lifeline has been brought out for their seizure-afflicted lives lived with epilepsy. It is indeed very efficacious for seizure control and also minimizes side effects. However, like any other such medication, it really begs proper attention and communication with your health provider. One can thus take proactive measures for better seizure management and improved quality of life by learning about the uses, risks, and precautions associated with using Keppra. Always seek the advice of your doctor and never hesitate to ask questions regarding your treatment.