Leviram
Generic Name
Levetiracetam
Manufacturer
Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| leviram 500 mg tablet | ৳ 30.00 | ৳ 300.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Levetiracetam is 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 believed to work by binding to the synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) in the brain.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose is 500 mg twice daily. The daily dose may be increased by 500 mg twice daily every 2 weeks to a maximum daily dose of 1500 mg twice daily (3000 mg/day).
Elderly
Adjust dosage based on renal function, similar to adults with renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Dosage adjustment is necessary. For mild impairment (CrCl 50-79 mL/min): 500-1000 mg twice daily. For moderate impairment (CrCl 30-49 mL/min): 250-750 mg twice daily. For severe impairment (CrCl <30 mL/min): 250-500 mg twice daily. Patients undergoing dialysis require a supplemental dose after dialysis.
How to Take
Leviram tablets are for oral administration and can be taken with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a sufficient amount of liquid. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet.
Mechanism of Action
The exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, but levetiracetam binds selectively to the synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) located in the brain. This binding is thought to modulate neurotransmitter release and prevent hypersynchronization of neuronal burst firing, thereby exerting its anticonvulsant effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Relatively rapid, usually within hours of the first dose, with steady-state concentrations achieved within 2 days of twice-daily dosing.
Excretion
Primarily renal excretion, with approximately 66% of the dose excreted unchanged in urine within 48 hours. The major inactive metabolite accounts for another 24% of the dose.
Half life
Approximately 7 hours in adults. It is shorter in children (5-6 hours) and prolonged in patients with renal impairment (9-10 hours).
Absorption
Rapid and almost complete absorption after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are reached approximately 1 hour post-dose. Absolute bioavailability is about 100%.
Metabolism
Minimal metabolism in humans; primarily via enzymatic hydrolysis of the acetamide group, not extensively by CYP450 isoenzymes. One major inactive metabolite is formed.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Hypersensitivity to levetiracetam or any of the excipients in the formulation.
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
No significant interaction.
Warfarin
No significant interaction.
Phenytoin
Co-administration with levetiracetam does not affect the pharmacokinetics of phenytoin, and phenytoin does not affect the pharmacokinetics of levetiracetam.
Valproate
No significant pharmacokinetic interaction observed.
Methotrexate
Possible reduction in methotrexate clearance, leading to increased methotrexate levels and potential toxicity. Monitor methotrexate levels and adjust dose if needed.
Oral Contraceptives
Levetiracetam does not influence the pharmacokinetics of oral contraceptives (ethinylestradiol and levonorgestrel).
Central Nervous System Depressants
Concomitant use with alcohol or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of CNS adverse effects like drowsiness and dizziness. Caution advised.
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 should be symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis may be used to remove levetiracetam from the body.
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 breast milk; therefore, 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
Pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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