I often talk with patients who describe life with epilepsy as waiting for the other shoe to drop. The uncertainty of when a seizure might happen can cast a shadow over everything. The goal of treatment is to lift that shadow, to bring back a sense of stability and control. One of the tools we often use to achieve this is a medication called Levetiracetam.
This medication is what we call an antiepileptic, or anti-seizure, drug. It’s not a cure, but it’s a powerful ally in preventing and controlling seizures. Think of it as a calming influence on the brain, helping to quiet the overactive nerve signals that can trigger a seizure. The “extended-release” part simply means the tablet is designed to release the medicine slowly over the day, which is great because it usually means you only have to take it once daily.
Before You Start Taking Levetiracetam
Any time we start a new medication, it’s a partnership. We need a complete picture of your health to make sure it’s the right and safest choice for you. I’ll always ask if you have a history of:
- Kidney problems: Your kidneys help process the medication, so we may need to adjust the dose.
- Mental health concerns: Especially any history of depression, or suicidal thoughts or attempts, either for you or a family member. This is really important.
- Allergies: Any unusual or allergic reaction to levetiracetam or any other medications in the past.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding: We need to discuss the risks and benefits if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or nursing.
How to Take This Medication Correctly
Taking this medicine properly is key to keeping your seizures under control.
- Swallow it whole. Please don’t cut, crush, or chew the tablet. It’s designed to work over a long period, and breaking it defeats that purpose. A simple glass of water is all you need.
- Be consistent. Try to take it at the same time each day. It can be with or without food, whichever is easiest for you to remember.
- Don’t suddenly stop. This is so important. Stopping your seizure medication on your own can cause your seizures to come back, sometimes worse than before. We will always make a plan together if we need to change or stop it.
You might notice something that looks like the tablet in your stool. Don’t be alarmed! For some brands, this is just the empty shell of the pill after all the medicine has been absorbed. It’s completely normal.
If you happen to miss a dose, just take it as soon as you remember. But if it’s already close to the time for your next dose, just skip the missed one and get back on your regular schedule. Don’t ever take two doses at once.
Potential Side Effects and When to Call Me
Like any medication, Levetiracetam can have side effects. We need to watch for them together. Most people do very well on it, but it’s crucial to know what to look for.
I’ve broken them down into two groups: things that need my attention right away, and things that are more common but usually less urgent.
| Levetiracetam Side Effect Guide | |
|---|---|
| Call My Office Right Away If You Notice… | |
| Mood or Behavior Changes | This is a big one. Feeling intensely anxious, irritable, hostile, or confused. Any new or worsening feelings of depression or thoughts of suicide or self-harm are an emergency. |
| Serious Skin Reactions | A rash that is red or purple, starts to blister or peel, especially if you also have a fever or feel like you have the flu. Also, a rash with swelling of your face, lips, or lymph nodes. |
| Signs of an Allergic Reaction | Skin rash, itching, or hives. Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat which can make it hard to breathe. |
| Coordination or Blood Count Issues | Losing your balance, trouble walking, unusual weakness, dizziness, easy bruising, or signs of infection (fever, chills, sore throat). |
| More Common Side Effects (Let me know if they persist) | |
| General Feelings | Feeling drowsy, dizzy, or just plain tired is common, especially when you first start. Some people also notice some irritability or a loss of appetite. |
Because this medication can make you drowsy, please be careful. Avoid driving or doing anything that requires sharp focus until you know how it affects you. It’s also best to avoid alcohol, as it can make the dizziness and drowsiness much worse.
Take-Home Message
- Consistency is key. Take your Levetiracetam every day as prescribed to maintain steady control over seizures.
- Never stop suddenly. This can be dangerous. Always talk to us before making any changes to your medication.
- Watch your mood. Report any significant changes in mood, behavior, or any thoughts of self-harm to your doctor immediately.
- Don’t crush the tablet. Swallow the extended-release tablet whole to get its full, day-long benefit.
- Report rashes. Any new rash, especially with a fever or blisters, needs to be checked out right away.
Managing epilepsy is a journey, and you are not on it alone. We are a team. The goal is to find the right treatment that lets you live your life as fully and safely as possible. Never hesitate to call with questions or concerns.