Levetira
Generic Name
Levetiracetam
Manufacturer
SK+F Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
levetira 500 mg oral solution | ৳ 400.00 | N/A |
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 works by reducing abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose typically 500 mg (5 mL of 100 mg/mL solution) twice daily, increasing by 500 mg twice daily every 2 weeks to a maximum of 1500 mg twice daily depending on response and tolerability.
Elderly
Similar to adults, but dose adjustment may be necessary in patients with age-related renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Dose must be adjusted based on creatinine clearance. Lower doses and/or less frequent dosing are required.
How to Take
Oral administration. Measure the exact amount of solution using a calibrated oral syringe or measuring cup. Can be taken with or without food.
Mechanism of Action
The exact mechanism of action is unknown, but it binds to the synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A (SV2A) in the brain, which is thought to modulate neurotransmitter release and prevent excessive synchronization of neuronal firing.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Varies by patient and seizure type; generally within hours to days of reaching therapeutic levels.
Excretion
Primarily via the kidneys, with about 66% excreted unchanged in urine.
Half life
Approximately 6-8 hours in adults; prolonged in renal impairment.
Absorption
Rapid and almost complete absorption after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations within 1 hour. Bioavailability is approximately 100%.
Metabolism
Minimal hepatic metabolism (less than 3%). Primarily hydrolyzed to an inactive carboxylic acid metabolite. Does not involve the CYP450 system.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to levetiracetam or any component of the formulation.
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate
Levetiracetam may reduce clearance of methotrexate, potentially increasing toxicity.
Storage
Store at room temperature (20°C to 25°C), away from moisture and light. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include somnolence, agitation, aggression, depressed level of consciousness, respiratory depression, and coma. Treatment is supportive; hemodialysis can remove levetiracetam.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Studies in animals have shown adverse effects on the fetus; there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if potential benefit outweighs 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, specific to manufacturer's label.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
FDA Approved
Patent Status
Generic available, patent expired
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of levetiracetam as monotherapy and adjunctive therapy for various seizure types in adults and pediatric patients.
Lab Monitoring
- Generally not required for routine monitoring. Renal function should be monitored in patients with renal impairment.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients about potential for somnolence and dizziness, especially at treatment initiation or with dose increases.
- Monitor for psychiatric symptoms, including suicidal ideation and depression.
- Adjust dose for renal impairment based on creatinine clearance.
- Counsel patients on proper measurement techniques for oral solution.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking the medicine abruptly, as this can lead to increased seizure frequency.
- Report any unusual mood changes, depression, or suicidal thoughts to your doctor immediately.
- Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you, as it can cause dizziness or drowsiness.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next 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
May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Patients should be advised not to drive or operate hazardous machinery until they are reasonably certain that levetiracetam does not affect their ability to engage in such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
- Avoid alcohol, as it can worsen side effects and seizure control.
- Discuss any new medications or supplements with your doctor.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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