Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Keppra (Levetiracetam).
Anemia: Keppra (Levetiracetam) may cause low levels of red blood cells. If you experience symptoms of reduced red blood cell count (anemia) such as shortness of breath, feeling unusually tired or pale skin, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Your doctor will do blood tests regularly to monitor the number of specific types of blood cells, including red blood cells, in your blood.
Behaviour problems: Some people have reported changes in behaviour associated with taking Keppra (Levetiracetam). There have been occasional reports of aggressive behaviour, anxiety, hostility, and mood swings in people with or without a history of having these problems. Talk to your doctor as soon as possible if you experience these feelings or behaviours.
Blood pressure: Children between the ages of 1 month and 4 years are at risk of developing high blood pressure while being treated with Keppra (Levetiracetam). Your child’s doctor will monitor this.
Drowsiness/reduced alertness: People with uncontrolled epilepsy should not drive or handle potentially dangerous machinery. Keppra (Levetiracetam) may cause drowsiness or problems with muscle control. If you are taking Keppra (Levetiracetam), do not participate in activities requiring mental alertness or physical coordination until you have determined how Keppra (Levetiracetam) affects you.
Hypersensitivity syndrome: A Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) called hypersensitivity syndrome has occurred for some people with the use of Keppra (Levetiracetam). Stop taking the medication and get immediate medical attention if you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, including fever, swollen glands, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or flu-like symptoms with skin rash or blistering.
Infection: Keppra (Levetiracetam) can reduce the number of cells that fight infection in the body (white blood cells). If you experience fever, sore throat, fatigue, weakness, or generally feel unwell while taking Keppra (Levetiracetam), contact your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor will do blood tests regularly to monitor the number of specific types of blood cells in your blood.
Kidney Disease: Kidney disease or reduced kidney function may cause Keppra (Levetiracetam) to build up in the body, causing side effects. If you have kidney disease or reduced kidney function, discuss with your doctor how Keppra (Levetiracetam) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Keppra (Levetiracetam), and whether any special monitoring is needed. People with poor kidney function may need a lower dose of Keppra (Levetiracetam).
Liver function: In rare cases, Keppra (Levetiracetam) has been reported to cause liver failure or inflammation of the liver. Your doctor may monitor your liver function with occasional blood work. If you have liver disease or reduced liver function, discuss with your doctor how Keppra (Levetiracetam) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Keppra (Levetiracetam), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Skin rash: Rarely, people taking Keppra (Levetiracetam) experience a severe skin reaction that can be life-threatening. If you experience a rash that gets worse, or develops into blisters, sores on the lips or eyes or covers a large area of the body, contact your doctor immediately.
Stopping the medication: As with other medications used to control seizures, stopping Keppra (Levetiracetam) suddenly is not recommended because of the possibility of increased seizure frequency. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
Suicidal thoughts and behaviour: Occasionally, people taking Keppra (Levetiracetam) may experience thoughts of suicide. If you experience these symptoms or any other behaviour change while taking Keppra (Levetiracetam), contact your doctor immediately. Family members or caregivers of people who are taking Keppra (Levetiracetam) should contact the person's doctor immediately if they notice unusual behaviour changes.
Pregnancy: Keppra (Levetiracetam) may cause harm to the developing baby if the mother takes it when she is pregnant. Keppra (Levetiracetam) should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Keppra (Levetiracetam), contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: Keppra (Levetiracetam) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Keppra (Levetiracetam), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children and adolescents: The safety and effectiveness of using Keppra (Levetiracetam) have not been established for use in children less than 1 month of age with partial onset seizures. The safety and effectiveness of Keppra (Levetiracetam) have not been established for the treatment of juvenile myoclonic epilepsy or primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in children under the age of 12 years.
Seniors: Seniors may need a lower dose of Keppra (Levetiracetam).
