Levetiracetam Zydus (Levetiracetam)

Levetiracetam is an antiepileptic drug that reduces abnormal neuronal firing in the brain.

• Partial seizures: helps control focal onset seizures and reduces their frequency.
• Generalized tonic‑clonic seizures: provides seizure freedom or reduction in patients with primary generalized seizures.
• Myoclonic seizures: diminishes rapid, involuntary muscle jerks associated with myoclonic epilepsy.

• Levetiracetam binds to the synaptic vesicle protein SV2A, a key regulator of neurotransmitter release. This interaction modulates synaptic vesicle exocytosis, decreasing neuronal excitability and stabilising abnormal electrical activity that underlies seizure generation.

Levetiracetam may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are mild to moderate.

Common Side Effects

• Dizziness: sensation of light‑headedness or unsteadiness.
• Somnolence: increased sleepiness or fatigue.
• Headache: mild to moderate cranial pain.
• Irritability: mood changes including agitation.
• Nausea: upset stomach or feeling sick.
• Fatigue: reduced energy levels.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe skin reactions: Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Mood disorders: depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts.
• Allergic reactions: anaphylaxis, swelling of face or throat.
• Blood dyscrasias: leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, or anemia.
• Hepatic injury: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Respiratory depression: rare but potentially life‑threatening breathing difficulty.

Before initiating therapy, clinicians should evaluate patient‑specific factors and monitor for adverse events.

• Renal impairment: assess kidney function and consider dose adjustment.
• Hepatic dysfunction: monitor liver enzymes periodically.
• Psychiatric history: watch for mood changes, depression, or suicidal ideation.
• Concomitant CNS depressants: use caution as additive sedation may occur.
• Pregnancy and lactation: weigh potential benefits against unknown risks; discuss with obstetric specialist.
• Store below 25°C: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Levetiracetam has a relatively low interaction profile, but certain drugs can alter its plasma levels.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Strong enzyme inducers (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital): may markedly reduce levetiracetam concentrations.
• Concomitant use with other antiepileptics that lower seizure threshold: may increase risk of breakthrough seizures.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Alcohol: can enhance central nervous system depression and increase somnolence.
• Sedative agents (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids): may potentiate sedation and dizziness.
• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium: may slightly decrease absorption if taken simultaneously.