Levitaracetam

Question 1

What is the brand name of levitaracetam?

Answer 1

Keppra

Question 2

What is the method of action of Levitaracetam?

Answer 2

• Binds to synaptic vesicle protein SV2A – involved in the regulation of vesicle exocytosis
• Inhibtis Ca channels = ↓ neurotransmitter release
• Inhibits burst firing from the epileptiform in the hippocampus

Question 3

What are the indications for levitaracetam?

Answer 3

• Partial onset seizures with/without secondary generalisation in all ages over 1 month
• Myoclonic seizures in adults/adolescents from 12 years old with Juvenile Myoclonic epilepsy
• Primary generalised tonic-clonic seizures in adults/adolescents from 12 years old with Idiopathic Generalised Epilepsy

Question 4

What are the contraindications with Levitaracetam?

Answer 4

• Renal problems – dose needs to be adjusted
• Alcohol
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding

Question 5

What are the side effects of Levitaracetam?

Answer 5

• Nasopharyngitis – aka cold
• Headache
• Anorexia
• Depression
• Ataxia/tremor
• GI upset
• Rash
• Thoughts of harming/killing themselves
• Sleepiness – normal side effect/overdose
• Agitation – overdose
• Aggression – overdose
• ↓ alertness - overdose
• Breathing difficulties - overdose
• Coma – overdose

Question 6

What drugs does leviteracetam interact with?

Answer 6

• Probenecid (renal tubular secretion blocking agent) – inhibit renal clearance of drug

Question 7

What organ eliminates leviteracetam?

Answer 7

Kidney

Question 8

What information should be given to a patient taking leviteracetam?

Answer 8

• Do not drive or use machinery until the effect on you is established
• Do not stop the medication abruptly