Levetira
Generic Name
Levetiracetam
Manufacturer
Generic Manufacturer Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| levetira 500 mg tablet | ৳ 30.00 | ৳ 300.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Levetiracetam is an antiepileptic drug used to treat various types of seizures, including partial onset seizures, myoclonic seizures, and primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures. It is believed to work by binding to the synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A), affecting neurotransmitter release.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dosage is typically 500 mg twice daily. The dose can be increased by 500 mg twice daily every 2-4 weeks, up to a maximum of 1500 mg twice daily, depending on response and tolerability.
Elderly
Similar to adults, but renal function should be assessed. Dose adjustments may be necessary if renal impairment is present.
Renal_impairment
Dose adjustment is required based on creatinine clearance. For patients with mild, moderate, or severe renal impairment, and those on dialysis, specific dosing regimens are recommended.
How to Take
Take Levetiracetam tablets orally, with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water; do not chew, crush, or break them.
Mechanism of Action
The exact mechanism of action of Levetiracetam is not fully understood. However, it selectively binds to the synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) in the brain, which is thought to modulate neurotransmitter release and thus exert its anticonvulsant effects. It does not appear to involve GABAergic or glutamatergic pathways directly.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Relatively rapid onset of action, with therapeutic concentrations achieved within hours of initial dosing.
Excretion
Primarily renal excretion, with about 66% of the dose excreted unchanged in urine. Renal impairment requires dose adjustment.
Half life
Approximately 6-8 hours in adults; prolonged in elderly and in patients with renal impairment.
Absorption
Rapid and almost complete absorption after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations typically occurring within 1 hour.
Metabolism
Minimal metabolism in humans; primarily by enzymatic hydrolysis of the acetamide group, not via hepatic cytochrome P450 isoenzymes.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Levetiracetam or any other pyrrolidone derivatives or to any of the excipients.
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate
Decreased renal clearance of methotrexate, potentially leading to increased methotrexate concentrations and toxicity. Concomitant use should be monitored.
Other CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines)
May enhance central nervous system (CNS) depressant effects, such as drowsiness and dizziness. Caution is advised.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct 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 primarily symptomatic and supportive, which may include gastric lavage and administration of activated charcoal. Hemodialysis can remove about 50% of the drug from the body.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Levetiracetam 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
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
FDA approved
Patent Status
Off-patent, generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Levetiracetam has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety as adjunctive therapy for various types of seizures across different age groups. Key trials established its role in partial-onset seizures, myoclonic seizures, and primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (creatinine clearance) especially in elderly patients or those with pre-existing renal impairment.
- Complete blood count (CBC) if unexplained bruising, bleeding, or signs of infection occur.
- Liver function tests (LFTs) if clinical signs of liver dysfunction develop.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize gradual titration of dose to minimize adverse effects.
- Educate patients and caregivers about potential psychiatric/behavioral side effects and the importance of reporting them.
- Advise patients not to stop the drug abruptly due to the risk of rebound seizures.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not discontinue Levetiracetam abruptly, as this may increase the frequency of seizures. Gradual withdrawal is necessary.
- Report any new or worsening behavioral symptoms, mood changes, depression, or suicidal thoughts to your doctor immediately.
- Be aware that Levetiracetam may cause drowsiness or dizziness; avoid activities requiring mental alertness until you know how the medicine affects you.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, 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 somnolence, dizziness, and other central nervous system symptoms. Patients should be advised not to drive or operate machinery until they have gained sufficient experience with Levetiracetam to gauge whether it adversely affects their ability to perform such tasks.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid consuming alcohol or other CNS depressants while taking Levetiracetam, as it may enhance drowsiness.
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule and reduce stress to help manage epilepsy.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.