Levetiracetam
Levetiracetam is an anti-epileptic drug which is used for the adjunctive treatment of partial seizures, with or without secondary generalisation.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Piracetan.
Molecular Weight: 170.2 · Non-proprietary name: Levetiracetam.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Levetiracetam has an oral bioavailability is 50% (±50%).
Distribution: Levetiracetam has a volume of distribution is 0.6l/kg. plasma protein binding is <10%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via Enzymatic hydrol, plasma half-life is 7(6-8)hr, renal excretion is 66%.
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Indications
Levetiracetam is primarily indicated in conditions like Anxiety, Epilepsy, Myoclonic seizures.
Levetiracetam is also indicated for secondary conditions like Alzheimer's disease, Autism, Iron deficiency anaemia, Neuropathic pain, Tourette's syndrome.
Contraindications
Levetiracetam is contraindicated in conditions like Breast feeding.
Dosage
Levetiracetam's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 1 g | 1 g | — | Addtional dosing increments may be given (100mg/day Additional every 2 weeks) to a maximum recommended daily dose of 3000 mg. | |
| 500 mg | 500 mg | — | As monotherapy up to Maximum of 3g daily. | |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 20 mg | 20 mg | — | PO | To maximum of 60 mg/kg daily. |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Levetiracetam in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Thrombocytopenia , Neutropenia , Pancytopenia .
Levetiracetam produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Hepatic impairment. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
Levetiracetam is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Aggression, Alopecia, Anorexia , Asthenia , Ataxia, Depression, Diplopia, Dizziness, Drowsiness, Headache, Nervousness, Rashes , Somnolence , Tremor, Vertigo, Weakness.
Warnings / Precautions
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Drug Classification
- 1.5 — Anticonvulsants and Antiepileptics