Levetiracetam – Uses, Dosage, Side Effects | Modern Antiepileptic Drug

Levetiracetam

Antiepileptic for Seizure Control

Indication

Used for generalized tonic-clonic seizures, partial-onset seizures, and myoclonic seizures.

Available Form

Injection 100 mg/ml, oral tablets 250 mg, 500 mg, 750 mg, 1000 mg; oral solution 100 mg/ml.

Dosage

Pediatric (≥1 month): 10 mg/kg IV/PO twice daily, may increase to 30 mg/kg/day as needed.

Adult: Start 500 mg twice daily; may increase to 1500 mg twice daily depending on response.

⚡ Major Side Effects

Drowsiness, fatigue
Dizziness, headache
Behavioral changes, irritability
Rare: thrombocytopenia, elevated liver enzymes

🚫 Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to Levetiracetam or any component

💧 Compatible Solvent

IV injection must be diluted with 0.9% NaCl or 5% dextrose and administered over 15 minutes.

⚠️ Special Precautions

Monitor renal function in patients with kidney disease; adjust dose accordingly.
Monitor mood or behavioral changes, especially in children.
Avoid abrupt discontinuation to prevent seizure recurrence.