Levetam
Generic Name
Levetiracetam
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| levetam 250 mg tablet | ৳ 15.00 | ৳ 150.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Levetam 250 mg Tablet contains Levetiracetam, an antiepileptic drug used in the treatment of various types of seizures in adults and children.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose is usually 500 mg twice daily. Dose may be increased by 500 mg twice daily every 2-4 weeks to a maximum of 1500 mg twice daily, based on patient response and tolerability.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment for elderly patients based on age alone; however, dose adjustments should be considered for renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Dose must be adjusted based on creatinine clearance. For CrCl 50-79 mL/min: 500-1000 mg twice daily. For CrCl 30-49 mL/min: 250-750 mg twice daily. For CrCl <30 mL/min: 250-500 mg twice daily.
How to Take
Levetam tablets should be taken orally, swallowed whole with a sufficient amount of liquid, and can be taken with or without food. It is recommended to take the daily dose in two equally divided doses, once in the morning and once in the evening.
Mechanism of Action
Levetiracetam's precise mechanism is not fully understood, but it is believed to exert its antiepileptic effects by binding to the synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) in the brain, which may modulate neurotransmitter release.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Relatively rapid, typically within hours of first dose.
Excretion
Primarily renal excretion (95% within 48 hours), with unchanged drug accounting for 66% of the dose.
Half life
Approximately 7 hours in adults; shorter in children (5-6 hours); prolonged in elderly and renal impairment.
Absorption
Rapid and almost complete absorption after oral administration; peak plasma concentrations reached within 1 hour.
Metabolism
Not extensively metabolized in the liver; primary metabolic pathway is enzymatic hydrolysis of the acetamide group (25%).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Levetiracetam or any other pirrolidine derivatives, or any excipients of the product.
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate
Possible reduction in renal clearance of methotrexate, potentially leading to increased methotrexate plasma concentrations and toxicity. Monitor methotrexate levels.
CNS Depressants (e.g., alcohol, sedatives)
Concomitant use may enhance CNS depressant effects. Use with caution.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include somnolence, agitation, aggression, depressed level of consciousness, respiratory depression, and coma. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis can be used to remove the drug.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Levetiracetam should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is excreted into human breast milk; a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Levetiracetam or any other pirrolidine derivatives, or any excipients of the product.
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate
Possible reduction in renal clearance of methotrexate, potentially leading to increased methotrexate plasma concentrations and toxicity. Monitor methotrexate levels.
CNS Depressants (e.g., alcohol, sedatives)
Concomitant use may enhance CNS depressant effects. Use with caution.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include somnolence, agitation, aggression, depressed level of consciousness, respiratory depression, and coma. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis can be used to remove the drug.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Levetiracetam should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is excreted into human breast milk; a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from the date of manufacture
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic versions available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Levetiracetam has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety as an adjunctive and monotherapy for various seizure types. Studies have included placebo-controlled trials in adults and children.
Lab Monitoring
- Monitor renal function (creatinine clearance) especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment and elderly patients.
- Complete blood counts are recommended at baseline and periodically thereafter for patients with unexplained weakness, fever, recurrent infections or coagulation disorders.
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on potential CNS side effects (drowsiness, dizziness) and behavioral changes (agitation, aggression) and advise reporting these promptly.
- Emphasize the importance of gradual titration to minimize side effects and never discontinuing abruptly.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking Levetam suddenly, as this may increase seizure frequency. Always consult your doctor before making any changes.
- Report any mood changes, depression, or suicidal thoughts to your doctor immediately.
- Take the medicine regularly as prescribed, at the same times each day, to maintain stable drug levels.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, 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
Levetiracetam may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or other central nervous system effects. Patients should be advised not to drive or operate machinery until they know how Levetiracetam affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid alcohol consumption while on Levetiracetam as it may enhance CNS depressant effects.
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule and manage stress to help control seizures.
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