INTRODUCTION
LEVESAM 250MG contains Levetiracetam which is an anti-epileptic medicine used to treat seizures (fits). It is used in combination with other medications to treat certain types of seizures in adults and children with epilepsy. It decreases abnormal excitement in the brain. This medicine is used for the form of epilepsy where the fits initially affect only one side of the brain but could thereafter extend to larger areas on both sides of the brain. It is prescribed by your doctor to reduce the number of fits.
Epilepsy is a common chronic disorder that requires long-term antiepileptic drug therapy. Seizures can happen when the electrical signals and chemicals are not working properly in brain cells. This medicine works by attaching to a protein (called SV2A) on the surface of nerve cells in the brain. This suppresses the transmission of nerve signals in the brain and prevents the spread of electrical signals causing seizures.
Before taking this medicine inform your doctor if you have kidney problems and psychotic disorders. The dose of levetiracetam used in children depends on their weight and age. It is usually started at a low dose and may be increased slowly to limit side effects. Some common side effects of this medicine may include dizziness, headache, irritability, loss of appetite and sleepiness. If you experience any of these problems, contact your doctor for advice. Your doctor may change the amount or way the drug is taken which may help. Do not stop taking LEVESAM 250MG without your doctor’s advice.
USES OF LEVESAM 250MG
Treat seizures in epilepsy
HOW LEVESAM 250MG WORKS
LEVESAM 250MG attaches to specific sites (SV2A) on the surfaces of nerve cells and affects the transmission of nerve signals in the brain by suppressing the abnormal activity of the nerve cells thus preventing the spread of electrical signals that cause seizures.
DIRECTIONS FOR USE
Take this medicine according to the dose and frequency as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break the medicine. It may be taken with or without food.
Dosage
Levesam 1gm Tablet
Levesam 250 Tablet
Levesam 500 Tablet
Levesam 750 Tablet
Levesam XR 1gm Tablet
Levesam XR 500mg Tablet
SIDE EFFECTS OF LEVESAM 250MG
SERIOUS
Mood and behavior changes
Hallucinations
Delusions (false or strange thoughts or beliefs)
Extreme sleepiness, tiredness, and weakness
Problems with walking and moving
COMMON
Sleepiness
Dizziness
Headache
Aggression or irritability
Loss of appetite
RARE
Infection
Decreased number of all blood cell types
Severe allergic reactions
Decreased blood sodium concentration
Encephalopathy
Pancreatitis
Sudden decrease in kidney function
Skin rash
Rhabdomyolysis (breakdown of muscle tissue)
Limp or difficulty walking
HOW TO MANAGE SIDE EFFECTS
Headache:
Rest and drink plenty of fluids. Ask your doctor to recommend a painkiller.
Dizziness:
Get up and move around to feel awake, take small naps to edge off the sleepiness. Give your eyes a break to avoid fatigue and eat a healthy food to boost energy.
WARNING & PRECAUTIONS
PREGNANCY
LEVESAM 250MG is considered safe for use by pregnant women. It is advised to consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
BREASTFEEDING
LEVESAM 250MG is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women unless necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
DRIVING AND USING MACHINES
LEVESAM 250MG may cause sleepiness. Do not drive or handle any machines while taking this medicine.
ALCOHOL
Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine as it may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or difficulty in concentration.
KIDNEY
LEVESAM 250MG is not recommended in patients with active kidney diseases. Before taking, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
LIVER
LEVESAM 250MG should be used with caution in patients suffering from liver function impairment or active liver diseases. Consult your doctor for advice.
ALLERGY
Do not take if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to Levetiracetam or any of the other ingredients in this medicine.
HEART DISEASE
LEVESAM 250MG is not recommended in patients with active heart diseases. Before taking, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
INTERACTIONS
Inform your doctor if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a prescription or the following:
Cetirizine, oxylamine, diphenhydramine and hydroxyzine (used to relieve allergy)
Alprazolam, diazepam (used to treat anxiety)
Muscle relaxants
Codeinenarcotic (pain relievers)
