For seizures.
Brand Name(s): Keppra
Generic Name: Levetiracetam
Instructions
This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.
This medicine should be given over 15 minutes.
This medicine should be given by a trained health care provider.
It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.
Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.
Contact your doctor if your seizures do not improve or worsen while on this medicine.
If you need to stop this medicine, your doctor may wish to gradually reduce the dosage before stopping.
Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.
Cautions
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.
Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.
Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.
Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.
Family should check on the patient often. Call the doctor if patient becomes more depressed, has thoughts of suicide, or shows changes in behavior.
Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet indicating your medical condition.
Side Effects
The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.
- dizziness or drowsiness
- lack of energy and tiredness
- weakness
Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:
- agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
- bleeding or bruising
- rapid breathing
- confusion
- depression or feeling sad
- fever
- swelling in the neck or throat
- mood changes
- pale or blue skin, lips or fingernails
- rapid heartbeat
- suicidal thoughts
- unsteadiness while walking
A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.
Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This document tells you briefly how to take your medicine, but it does not tell you all there is to know about it. Your doctor or pharmacist may give you other documents about your medicine. Please talk to them if you have any questions. Always follow their advice.
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Conditions of Use: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. The display and use of this drug information is subject to express Terms of Use.
