Brevipil
Generic Name
Brivaracetam
Manufacturer
UCB
Country
Belgium
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| brevipil 25 mg tablet | ৳ 30.00 | ৳ 300.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Brevipil (Brivaracetam) is an antiepileptic drug used to treat partial-onset seizures in patients 4 years of age and older. It is thought to work by binding to synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) in the brain.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose is typically 50 mg/day (25 mg twice daily), which can be adjusted up to a recommended daily dose of 50 mg to 200 mg/day (25 mg to 100 mg twice daily) depending on patient response and tolerability.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is required based solely on age. However, caution should be exercised in elderly patients with renal or hepatic impairment.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment is needed for mild to moderate renal impairment. For severe renal impairment or end-stage renal disease on dialysis, a maximum daily dose of 150 mg/day (75 mg twice daily) is recommended.
How to Take
Brevipil tablets should be taken orally, with or without food. They can be swallowed whole with water. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablets.
Mechanism of Action
Brivaracetam exhibits high and selective affinity for synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) in the brain, which may modulate neurotransmitter release. The precise mechanism by which brivaracetam exerts its antiepileptic effects is not fully understood but is believed to involve its binding to SV2A.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Relatively rapid onset of action. Steady-state concentrations are typically achieved within 2 days of twice-daily administration.
Excretion
Mainly renal excretion of metabolites and unchanged drug. Approximately 95% of the dose is excreted in urine, with about 8-11% as unchanged drug.
Half life
Approximately 9 hours.
Absorption
Rapid and almost complete absorption after oral administration. Absolute bioavailability is approximately 100%. Peak plasma concentration is reached within 1 hour.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized by hydrolysis of the amide moiety, mainly via the enzyme CYP2C19 (though independent of CYP2C19 genotype effect), and subsequent deamination. It has no or minimal CYP induction/inhibition.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to the active substance brivaracetam, other pyrrolidone derivatives, or to any of the excipients.
Drug Interactions
Oral Contraceptives
Brivaracetam may cause a dose-dependent decrease in the plasma concentration of ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel. Patients using hormonal contraceptives should be advised to use additional or alternative non-hormonal birth control methods.
Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital, Phenytoin
These strong enzyme inducers may decrease plasma levels of brivaracetam to a minor extent. Dose adjustments are not typically required but clinical monitoring is advised.
Storage
Store below 30°C (86°F). Protect from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Experience with brivaracetam overdose is limited. Symptoms observed included dizziness, somnolence, nausea, uncoordinated body movements, and changes in consciousness. Management should be symptomatic and supportive, including general supportive measures.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. (Pregnancy Category C). Lactation: Brivaracetam is excreted in human milk. A decision must be made whether to discontinue breastfeeding or to discontinue/abstain from Brevipil therapy taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding for the child and the benefit of therapy for the woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to the active substance brivaracetam, other pyrrolidone derivatives, or to any of the excipients.
Drug Interactions
Oral Contraceptives
Brivaracetam may cause a dose-dependent decrease in the plasma concentration of ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel. Patients using hormonal contraceptives should be advised to use additional or alternative non-hormonal birth control methods.
Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital, Phenytoin
These strong enzyme inducers may decrease plasma levels of brivaracetam to a minor extent. Dose adjustments are not typically required but clinical monitoring is advised.
Storage
Store below 30°C (86°F). Protect from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Experience with brivaracetam overdose is limited. Symptoms observed included dizziness, somnolence, nausea, uncoordinated body movements, and changes in consciousness. Management should be symptomatic and supportive, including general supportive measures.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. (Pregnancy Category C). Lactation: Brivaracetam is excreted in human milk. A decision must be made whether to discontinue breastfeeding or to discontinue/abstain from Brevipil therapy taking into account the benefit of breastfeeding for the child and the benefit of therapy for the woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, specific details on packaging.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by FDA, EMA, and other regulatory bodies
Patent Status
Patent protected (for original formulations), generic versions available
Clinical Trials
Brivaracetam has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety as an adjunctive and monotherapy treatment for partial-onset seizures in various patient populations.
Lab Monitoring
- Routine laboratory monitoring is generally not required for Brevipil. However, liver function tests may be considered in patients with hepatic impairment.
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on potential CNS side effects (drowsiness, dizziness) and advise caution with activities requiring mental alertness.
- Monitor patients for the emergence or worsening of psychiatric symptoms, especially during initiation or dose adjustments.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking Brevipil suddenly, as this may increase your risk of seizures. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication.
- Report any unusual changes in mood or behavior, including thoughts of self-harm, to your doctor immediately.
- Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Brevipil may cause dizziness, somnolence (drowsiness), or other central nervous system effects. Patients should not drive or operate complex machinery until they know how Brevipil affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule and manage stress effectively, as these can impact seizure control.
- Engage in regular physical activity as advised by your healthcare provider.
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