Leviceta
Generic Name
Levetiracetam
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| leviceta 250 mg tablet | ৳ 16.00 | ৳ 160.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Leviceta 250 mg Tablet contains Levetiracetam, an antiepileptic drug used in the treatment of various types of seizures including partial onset seizures, myoclonic seizures, and primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures. It is often used as an add-on therapy.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose 250 mg twice daily, increasing to 500 mg twice daily after 2 weeks, then further increases by 500 mg twice daily every 2 weeks to a maximum of 1500 mg twice daily, based on clinical response and tolerability.
Elderly
Dose adjustments may be needed based on renal function.
Renal_impairment
Initial dose 250 mg once daily, with careful titration and monitoring of renal function. Max dose depends on creatinine clearance.
How to Take
Oral. Leviceta tablets can be taken with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not chew, crush, or break it.
Mechanism of Action
The precise mechanism of action of Levetiracetam is not fully understood. However, it is believed to bind to synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) in the brain, which may modulate neurotransmitter release and thus exert its anticonvulsant effects. It does not act on GABA or glutamate receptors.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid, typically within 1 hour of oral administration.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in urine (about 66%), with metabolites accounting for the rest.
Half life
Approximately 6-8 hours in healthy adults; prolonged in renal impairment.
Absorption
Rapidly and almost completely absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1 hour.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized; primarily hydrolyzed via enzymatic hydrolysis, not by cytochrome P450 system.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Levetiracetam or any component of the formulation.
- Severe hepatic impairment.
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate
Reduced clearance of methotrexate, potentially increasing toxicity.
Valproic acid
No significant pharmacokinetic interaction.
Other CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, sedatives)
Increased CNS depression, advise 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. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, and may include gastric lavage. Hemodialysis can remove Levetiracetam.
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 breastfeeding or 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.
- Severe hepatic impairment.
Drug Interactions
Methotrexate
Reduced clearance of methotrexate, potentially increasing toxicity.
Valproic acid
No significant pharmacokinetic interaction.
Other CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, sedatives)
Increased CNS depression, advise 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. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, and may include gastric lavage. Hemodialysis can remove Levetiracetam.
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 breastfeeding or 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 24-36 months from manufacturing date
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Levetiracetam in various seizure types across different age groups. Key trials include those supporting its use in partial onset, myoclonic, and primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (creatinine clearance) in patients with impaired renal function.
- Complete blood count (CBC) if unexplained weakness, fever, or infection occurs (rarely associated with neutropenia or pancytopenia).
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on potential CNS side effects (drowsiness, dizziness) and the importance of not abruptly discontinuing therapy.
- Monitor for psychiatric/behavioral changes, especially in patients with a history of such issues.
- Adjust dose in renal impairment. No significant hepatic dose adjustment needed.
Patient Guidelines
- Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking Leviceta suddenly, as this may lead to an increase in seizure frequency. Consult your doctor before discontinuing.
- Report any changes in mood, behavior, or suicidal thoughts to your doctor immediately.
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
Leviceta may cause somnolence, dizziness, or blurred vision, especially at the beginning of treatment or after a dose increase. Patients should be advised not to drive or operate machinery until they know how the drug affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain regular sleep patterns.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
- Regular exercise and a balanced diet can support overall well-being.
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