Keppra is a commercial drug that is prescribed in the form of Syrup, Tablet, Injection. It is typically used for the treatment of Epilepsy. Keppra also has some secondary and off-label uses. These are listed below.
The optimal dosage of Keppra is largely dependent on the individual's body weight, medical history, gender and age. Dosage also depends on the route of administration and your chief complaint for which the drug is prescribed. This information has been provided in detail in the dosage section.
Keppra also has some side effects, the most common being Fatigue, Headache, Drowsiness. While these are the most often observed Keppra side effects, there are can be others also. These have been listed below. These side effects of Keppra are usually temporary and subside with the completion of treatment. Please speak with your doctor if these side effects worsen or persist for a longer duration.
In addition, Keppra's effect is Moderate during pregnancy and Mild for lactating mothers. Warnings related to Keppra's effects on the liver, heart and kidney, if any, have been listed below.
The section on Keppra contraindications lists all such conditions.
Additionally, Keppra may also adversely react with other medicines. See below for a complete list.
In addition to the above precautions for Keppra, it is important to know that it is not safe while driving, and is not habit-forming.
Keppra is used to treat the following -
This is the usual dosage recommended in most common treatment cases. Please remember that every patient and their case is different, so the dosage can be different based on the disease, route of administration, patient's age and medical history.
Find the right dosage based on disease and age
| Age Group | Dosage |
| Adult |
|
| Geriatric |
|
| 13 - 18 years (Adolescent) |
|
| 2 - 12 years (Child) |
|
Is the use of Keppra safe for pregnant women?
Keppra may cause moderate side effects during pregnancy. If you feel its harmful effects, then stop taking this drug immediately, and do not take Keppra again without your doctor's advice.
Is the use of Keppra safe during breastfeeding?
Keppra may have very limited harmful effects for breastfeeding women.
What is the effect of Keppra on the Kidneys?
Keppra rarely harms the kidneys.
What is the effect of Keppra on the Liver?
Keppra has very mild side effects on the liver.
What is the effect of Keppra on the Heart?
Keppra is completely safe for the heart.
Keppra should not be taken with following medicines due to severe side effects it may cause to patients -
Moderate
If you are suffering from any of the following diseases, you should not take Keppra unless your doctor advises you to do so -
Is this Keppra habit forming or addictive?
Keppra does not cause addiction.
Is it safe to drive or operate heavy machinery when consuming?
No, you should do not do anything that requires concentration and attention as the Keppra can make you feel drowsy.
Is it safe?
Yes, but take Keppra only as per medical advice.
Is it able to treat mental disorders?
Keppra has been seen to have positive effect on patients with mental disorders.
Interaction between Food and Keppra
Taking Keppra with food does not harm your health.
Interaction between Alcohol and Keppra
Consult your doctor before consuming alcohol while taking Keppra as it can have severe side effects.
Yes, long-term use of Keppra in high doses might cause weight gain. It is a rare side effect of this drug. However, the exact cause behind weight gain is unknown. If you are experiencing unusual weight gain after taking this drug then you are advised to discuss it with your doctor.
Yes, Keppra may cause a headache. It is a known side effect of this drug and the exact cause behind a headache is unknown. If you experience a severe headache after taking this drug, take a mild painkiller, apply balm and complete rest even after this if the pain does not subside then discuss with your doctor immediately.
Yes, Keppra might cause constipation. It is a rare side effect of this drug and the exact cause behind constipation is unknown. If you are experiencing constipation after taking this drug then try to take laxative such as Isabgol and eat less spicy highly fibrous food.
Keppra may be used in combination with other drugs such as haloperidol to treat bipolar disorders. Clinical studies have found that it offers potential benefits in treating bipolar disorders but more data is needed to confirm these results.
Yes, Keppra is safe to use, if taken in prescribed amount and duration as advised by the doctor. However, certain side effects have been associated with this drug such as weakness, dizziness, and irritability. If you experience above-mentioned side after consuming this drug then inform your doctor and follow his/her instructions.
This medicine data has been created by -
B.Pharma, Pharmacy
5 Years of Experience
