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In this Article

• What is levetiracetam (Keppra)?
• What are the possible side effects of levetiracetam (Keppra)?
• What is the most important information I should know about levetiracetam (Keppra)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking levetiracetam (Keppra)?
• How should I take levetiracetam (Keppra)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Keppra)?
• What happens if I overdose (Keppra)?
• What should I avoid while taking levetiracetam (Keppra)?
• What other drugs will affect levetiracetam (Keppra)?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking levetiracetam (Keppra)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to levetiracetam.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have kidney disease. You may need a dose adjustment or special tests during treatment.

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking this medication. Tell your doctor if you have new or worsening depression or suicidal thoughts during the first several months of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed.

Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether levetiracetam is harmful to an unborn baby. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

Levetiracetam can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give this medication to a child without the advice of a doctor.

How should I take levetiracetam (Keppra)?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the instructions on your prescription label.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

Take the medication with a full glass of water. You may take levetiracetam with or without food.

Measure the liquid form of levetiracetam with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.

Do not crush, chew, or break a levetiracetam tablet. Swallow the pill whole.

Levetiracetam can be taken with or without food.

It is important to use levetiracetam regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

Do not stop taking levetiracetam without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. If you stop taking levetiracetam suddenly, you may have increased seizures. Tell your doctor if you have new or worsening seizures.

Seizures are often treated with a combination of different drugs. To best treat your condition, use all of your medications as directed by your doctor. Be sure to read the medication guide or patient instructions provided with each of your medications. Do not change your doses or medication schedule without advice from your doctor.

Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking levetiracetam, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you are taking levetiracetam.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood may need to be tested on a regular basis. Your liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Store levetiracetam at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.