Levetiracetam (CAS 102767-28-2) Suppliers and Product Information

Levetiracetam is a third-generation antiepileptic drug used for the treatment of epilepsy. It is known under the proprietary brand name Keppra® (UCB Pharma). It is used as monotherapy and adjunctive therapy for focal seizures with or without secondary generalization.

Frequently Asked Questions about Levetiracetam

Q: What are the main indications for Levetiracetam?

A: Levetiracetam is primarily indicated for epilepsy, including monotherapy and adjunctive therapy of focal seizures with or without secondary generalization. It is also used for myoclonic seizures, generalized tonic-clonic seizures, and various epilepsy types such as juvenile myoclonic epilepsy and benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes.

Q: How is the dose of Levetiracetam typically titrated?

A: For monotherapy in epilepsy, the typical titration is 250 mg once daily for 7-14 days, then 250 mg twice daily for 14 days, followed by increases of 250 mg twice daily every 14 days, up to a maximum maintenance dose of 1500 mg twice daily. For adjunctive therapy, the titration starts at 250 mg twice daily for 14 days, then increases by 500 mg twice daily every 14-28 days, up to a maximum maintenance dose of 1500 mg twice daily.

Q: Are there any specific interactions with other antiepileptic drugs?

A: Levetiracetam has no known significant interactions with other antiepileptic drugs.

Q: What are the main adverse effects of Levetiracetam?

A: Levetiracetam can be associated with adverse effects on the nervous system. Behavioral adverse events such as irritability and emotional lability are often reported. In rare cases, marked behavioral changes with psychotic symptoms and episodes of severe aggression have been reported.

Q: Is Levetiracetam safe to use during pregnancy?

A: While post-marketing data do not suggest a substantial increase in the risk for major congenital malformations, a teratogenic risk cannot be completely excluded, especially in polytherapy with other antiepileptic drugs. Levetiracetam is not recommended during pregnancy unless clinically necessary, and appropriate clinical management should be ensured for pregnant women treated with Levetiracetam.