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Keppra 500 mg, 250 mg: Everything You Need to Know
Keppra is a prescription drug used to treat partial onset seizures in adults and children. It is also used to treat myoclonic seizures in children over the age of 12 and primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in people over 6 years old. Keppra comes in three forms: immediate-release tablets, extended-release tablets, and a solution for injection. It is usually taken with or without food, 2 times a day.
The active ingredient in Keppra is levetiracetam. It belongs to a class of drugs called anticonvulsants. Keppra works by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain. It also affects the autistic neuron through various mechanisms to lower excitability. The levetiracetam in Keppra was first synthesized in 1982 by Belgian scientists at UCB Pharmaceuticals. Keppra was first approved in 1999 in the European Union and was later approved in the United States in 2000.
How Does Keppra Work? Keppra works to reduce seizure activity by binding to a specific protein in the brain called SV2A. This protein is involved in the regulation of synaptic vesicle exocytosis. By binding to SV2A, Keppra reduces the release of excitatory neurotransmitters that cause seizures. At the same time, Keppra increases the release of inhibitory neurotransmitters that help calm down excessive brain activity associated with seizures.
Keppra does not bind to receptors for most known neurotransmitters, such as GABA, glutamate, aspartate, choline, phenylalkylamines, beta-carbolines, picrotoxin, or pentamethylen- tetrazole. It also does not inhibit the uptake of dopamine, noradrenaline, serotonin, GABA, choline, or glutamate.
In addition to its anti-seizure effects, Keppra has also been studied as a potential treatment for anxiety disorders, depression, and other psychiatric conditions. However, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness for these uses.
Keppra Dosage Information Keppra is available in the following strengths:
The usual starting dosage of Keppra for adults is 1000 mg per day given in 2 divided doses. The dosage may be increased by 1000 mg every 2 weeks in increments of 1-2 grams to a maximum recommended daily dose of 3000 mg. Doses greater than 3000 mg are not recommended.
For children, the dosage is based on the child's weight. The usual starting dosage for children aged 4-15 years is 20 mg/kg in 2 divided doses (10 mg/kg twice daily). The dosage may be increased by 20 mg/kg every 2 weeks to the recommended daily dose of 60 mg/kg (30 mg/kg twice daily).
Side Effects of Keppra Keppra can cause a range of side effects, some of which can be serious. Common side effects of Keppra may include:
Serious side effects of Keppra can include:
It is important to tell your doctor about any side effects you experience while taking Keppra. Your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or recommend a different medication.
Interactions with Other Drugs Keppra can interact with other drugs, which may increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of one or both drugs. Some of the drugs that can interact with Keppra include:
It is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Your doctor can help you manage potential drug interactions.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Keppra is listed as a Category C medication for use during pregnancy. This means that Keppra may cause adverse effects on the fetus. However, it is also important to control seizures during pregnancy, as uncontrolled seizures can harm the mother and the fetus. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while taking Keppra, talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits.
Keppra can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. If you are breastfeeding while taking Keppra, talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits. Your doctor may recommend that you not breastfeed or that you stop taking Keppra.
How to Buy Keppra Online If you have been prescribed Keppra by your doctor, you can buy it online from a reputable online pharmacy. Here are some tips for buying Keppra online safely:
Some popular online pharmacies that sell Keppra include:
Anti-Epileptic Medications: Types, Side Effects, and More
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, which are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) are the most common treatment for epilepsy, aiming to control or stop seizures. In this article, we will explore the different types of anti-epileptic medications, their side effects, and other important factors to consider.
Types of Anti-Epileptic Medications There are several categories of AEDs, each with its own mechanism of action and specific uses. Some of the most common types include:
Sodium channel blockers: These medications, such as phenytoin and carbamazepine, work by blocking the sodium channels in neurons to reduce the electrical activity that leads to seizures.
GABA enhancers: Drugs like valproate and benzodiazepines increase the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that has a calming effect on the brain.
Calcium channel blockers: These AEDs, including ethosuximide and zonisamide, block the calcium channels to reduce the electrical activity in neurons.
AMPA receptor antagonists: Medications like perampanel work by blocking the AMPA receptors, which are involved in the excitatory pathways that can lead to seizures.
Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors: Topiramate is an example of a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, which reduces the excitability of neurons.
Commonly Used Anti-Epileptic Medications Some of the most commonly used AEDs include:
| Medication | Type of AED | Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Carbamazepine | Sodium channel blocker | Partial and generalized seizures |
| Valproate | GABA enhancer | Absence, partial, and generalized seizures |
| Phenobarbital | Barbiturate | Partial and generalized seizures |
| Levetiracetam | Unknown | Partial and generalized seizures |
| Topiramate | Carbonic anhydrase inhibitor | Partial and generalized seizures |
| Lamotrigine | Sodium channel blocker | Partial and generalized seizures |
| Oxcarbazepine | Sodium channel blocker | Partial seizures |
| Gabapentin | GABA analogue | Partial seizures |
| Pregabalin | GABA analogue | Partial seizures |
Side Effects of Anti-Epileptic Medications While AEDs are generally effective in controlling seizures, they can also cause various side effects. Common side effects include:
In rare cases, more serious side effects can occur, such as:
It's important to discuss with your doctor any side effects you experience and to closely monitor your health while taking AEDs.
Monotherapy vs. Polytherapy When a person is diagnosed with epilepsy, they are usually started on a single medication, known as monotherapy. This approach is preferred because it reduces the risk of side effects and drug interactions. If monotherapy is ineffective, a second medication may be added, which is called polytherapy.
Polytherapy is associated with a higher risk of side effects and requires careful monitoring by a healthcare professional. In some cases, polytherapy may be necessary to achieve adequate seizure control.
Other Treatment Options In addition to medications, there are other treatment options for epilepsy, including:
Pregnancy and Anti-Epileptic Medications For women with epilepsy, pregnancy raises special concerns. Some AEDs may increase the risk of birth defects or other complications. It's crucial for women with epilepsy to discuss their pregnancy plans with their healthcare provider and to carefully weigh the risks and benefits of different medications.
FAQs Q: What is the most effective anti-epileptic medication? A: The most effective medication varies depending on the individual and the type of seizure they experience. Your healthcare provider will work with you to find the best medication for your specific needs.
Q: Can anti-epileptic medications cause addiction? A: Some AEDs, especially benzodiazepines, can be habit-forming. It's important to only take these medications as prescribed by your doctor and to gradually taper off the medication if discontinuing use.
Q: Can I stop taking anti-epileptic medications if I haven't had a seizure in a long time? A: No, you should not stop taking your AEDs without consulting your healthcare provider. Stopping medication suddenly can cause withdrawal seizures and increase the risk of seizure recurrence.
Q: Can anti-epileptic medications affect mental health? A: Some AEDs may cause mood changes, anxiety, or depression in certain individuals. If you experience any mental health issues while taking AEDs, it's important to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
In conclusion, anti-epileptic medications play a crucial role in managing and controlling seizures in people with epilepsy. Understanding the different types of AEDs, their side effects, and other treatment options can help individuals make informed decisions about their care. It's always best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific needs.