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 500 mg tablet | ৳ 30.00 | ৳ 300.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Levetiracetam is an antiepileptic drug (AED) used in the treatment of various types of seizures. It is a pyrrolidine derivative that differs chemically from other AEDs.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose 500 mg twice daily, increasing by 500 mg twice daily every 2 weeks to a maximum of 1500 mg twice daily. The dose can also be adjusted based on clinical response and tolerability.
Elderly
Initial dose may be lower, starting at 250 mg twice daily, with gradual titration. Dose adjustment needed in renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Dosage should be individualized and adjusted based on creatinine clearance. For CrCl < 80 mL/min, lower doses and/or less frequent administration may be necessary.
How to Take
Take orally, with or without food. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a sufficient amount of liquid.
Mechanism of Action
The exact mechanism of action of levetiracetam is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve binding to the synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A), which modulates neurotransmitter release and inhibits hypersynchronization of epileptiform burst firing.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action is relatively rapid; clinical effects observed within days of initiation.
Excretion
Excreted primarily via the kidneys, mainly as unchanged drug (66%) and its inactive metabolite.
Half life
Approximately 6-8 hours in adults; prolonged in renal impairment.
Absorption
Rapid and almost complete oral absorption; peak plasma concentrations reached within 1 hour.
Metabolism
Minimal metabolism in the liver; primary metabolic pathway involves enzymatic hydrolysis of the acetamide group.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levetiracetam or any component of the formulation.
- History of angioedema related to levetiracetam.
Drug Interactions
Valproate
No significant pharmacokinetic interaction.
Methotrexate
Levetiracetam may decrease the clearance of methotrexate, leading to increased methotrexate levels and potential toxicity.
CNS Depressants (e.g., alcohol, opioids)
May increase CNS depression.
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. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, including gastric lavage and general supportive measures. Hemodialysis may be useful.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Levetiracetam is excreted in breast milk; a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levetiracetam or any component of the formulation.
- History of angioedema related to levetiracetam.
Drug Interactions
Valproate
No significant pharmacokinetic interaction.
Methotrexate
Levetiracetam may decrease the clearance of methotrexate, leading to increased methotrexate levels and potential toxicity.
CNS Depressants (e.g., alcohol, opioids)
May increase CNS depression.
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. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, including gastric lavage and general supportive measures. Hemodialysis may be useful.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Levetiracetam is excreted in breast milk; a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or 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
24 to 36 months from manufacturing date, depending on specific formulation and manufacturer.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics
Approval Status
Approved (FDA, DGDA, etc.)
Patent Status
Generic available (Patent expired for original drug)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated efficacy and safety in various seizure types. Ongoing post-marketing surveillance and studies continue to refine understanding of its use.
Lab Monitoring
- Monitor renal function (creatinine clearance) periodically, especially in elderly or renally impaired patients.
- No routine blood level monitoring is required, but may be useful in certain clinical situations.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients about potential CNS depression and caution against driving initially.
- Monitor for behavioral changes, especially in pediatric patients.
- Dosage adjustment is crucial in renal impairment.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may lead to increased seizure frequency.
- Report any changes in mood or behavior, including thoughts of self-harm, to your doctor immediately.
- Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine as it may increase side effects like dizziness and drowsiness.
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 resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
May cause somnolence, dizziness, and other CNS effects. Patients should be advised not to drive or operate machinery until they have gained sufficient experience with levetiracetam to ascertain whether it affects their ability to perform such tasks.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
- Avoid excessive caffeine or stimulants.
- Engage in stress-reducing activities like yoga or meditation.
- Ensure regular follow-up appointments with your neurologist.
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International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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