Keppra

What is it?

Composition

The composition of Keppra is carefully selected to ensure maximum efficiency and minimize the risk of side effects. The main active component of the drug is levetiracetam, which is responsible for its antiepileptic effect. Additionally, the composition includes excipients that help improve the stability and absorption of the drug.

• Levetiracetam is the main active component that provides the anticonvulsant effect.
• Microcrystalline cellulose - used to give the tablet shape and stability.
• Povidone - improves the solubility and bioavailability of the active substance.
• Talc - serves to reduce friction between particles of the drug.
• Magnesium stearate - used as a lubricant to prevent tablets from sticking during the manufacturing process.

How to use?

Keppra should be taken strictly as prescribed by your doctor, as the dosage and frequency of administration depend on the individual characteristics of the patient and the type of epileptic seizures. Treatment usually begins with a minimum dose, which is gradually increased to achieve the optimal therapeutic effect. It is important to adhere to the recommendations for administration to avoid possible side effects and maintain a stable level of the drug in the blood.

1. Take Keppra orally with a sufficient amount of water, regardless of food intake.
2. Usually the drug is prescribed twice a day, trying to maintain equal intervals between doses.
3. Do not stop taking Keppra suddenly, as this may lead to worsening of symptoms. The dose should be reduced gradually under the supervision of a doctor.

How does it work?

Keppra acts on the central nervous system, affecting neural activity in the brain. Levetiracetam, the active substance of the drug, binds to a special protein - synaptic vesicular protein 2A (SV2A). This protein is involved in the release of neurotransmitters and the transmission of nerve signals between brain cells. Due to this interaction, Keppra helps stabilize electrical impulses and prevents their chaotic spread, which can lead to seizures.

The uniqueness of levetiracetam is that it acts selectively, without inhibiting the normal functions of neurons and without affecting the main processes in the brain. This minimizes the risk of side effects and reduces the likelihood of developing cognitive impairment, which sometimes occurs when taking other antiepileptic drugs. As a result, Keppra demonstrates high efficiency in various types of epilepsy, even in cases where other drugs do not give the desired result.

Indications

Keppra is prescribed for various forms of epilepsy and has proven its effectiveness in both adults and children. The drug is used both as monotherapy and as part of a complex treatment, which allows it to cover a wide range of epileptic conditions and seizure disorders. It is used not only to treat already diagnosed seizures, but also to prevent their recurrence.

• Partial seizures with or without secondary generalization in adults and children aged 4 years and over.
• Myoclonic seizures in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy in adolescents aged 12 years and over and adults.
• Primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in idiopathic generalized epilepsy in patients aged 12 years and over.

Keppra has become an important choice for many patients because it effectively reduces the frequency and severity of seizures, improving quality of life and giving more control over the symptoms of the disease.

Contraindications

Although Keppra is considered a fairly safe drug, there are certain situations when its use is not recommended or requires special caution. The main contraindications are related to the possibility of allergic reactions and the presence of certain diseases that may be worsened by levetiracetam.

• Hypersensitivity to levetiracetam or any of the excipients of the drug.
• Serious renal or hepatic dysfunction requiring dosage adjustment and medical supervision.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding, if the benefits of use do not outweigh the potential risks to the mother and child.

Before starting treatment with Keppra, it is important to discuss all existing medical conditions and current medications with your doctor to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.

Side effects

Although Keppra is generally well tolerated by most patients, some may experience side effects. These reactions can range from mild and temporary to more serious reactions that require medical advice. It is important to remember that not all patients experience these reactions and the body often adapts to the treatment over time.

• Headaches and dizziness are among the most common symptoms, especially when starting the drug.
• Drowsiness or feeling tired, which can affect daily activities.
• Mood swings, irritability and, in rare cases, depression or anxiety.
• Sleep problems, such as insomnia or restless sleep.
• Gastrointestinal symptoms may include nausea and indigestion.

If any of these side effects become severe or bothersome, you should consult your doctor. Your doctor may adjust your dosage or suggest alternative treatments to minimize unpleasant symptoms.