Keppra XR is a prescription medicine approved for the treatment of epilepsy. This page on the eMedTV site describes the specific effects of this medication, explains when and how to take it, and lists some of its potential side effects.
Common Keppra XR side effects may include irritability, common cold symptoms, and the flu. This eMedTV resource lists other common side effects of Keppra XR and also explains which side effects may require immediate medical attention.
Keppra XR is used for treating partial seizures in people ages 16 and older with epilepsy. This part of the eMedTV library discusses Keppra XR uses in more detail, including a list of possible off-label uses for this seizure medication.
The usual starting Keppra XR dosage is 1000 mg (two 500 mg tablets) once daily. This article from the eMedTV archives explains how your healthcare provider will gradually increase your dose and offers tips for when and how to take this medication.
There are currently no known Keppra XR drug interactions. As this eMedTV Web page explains, however, Keppra XR has not been studied in combination with every medication, so it is possible that there are unknown drug interactions at this time.
If you have anemia, make sure to let your doctor know before you start using Keppra XR. This eMedTV resource contains other important Keppra XR warnings and precautions, and includes information on who should not use this medication.
A Keppra XR (levetiracetam XR) overdose may lead to agitation, unconsciousness, or drowsiness. This eMedTV resource lists other possible symptoms of an overdose with Keppra XR and describes various available treatment options.
Keppra XR (levetiracetam XR) is potentially dangerous for pregnant women. As this eMedTV page explains, studies on Keppra XR and pregnancy show that the drug increased the risk of miscarriage and birth defects when it was given to pregnant animals.
The manufacturer of Keppra XR (levetiracetam XR) recommends avoiding this drug while breastfeeding. This eMedTV segment offers more information on Keppra XR and breastfeeding, and explains whether this medicine passes through breast milk.
Keppra XR (levetiracetam XR) is not available in generic form at this time. This eMedTV article explores when generic Keppra XR products may become available and explains the difference between a generic drug and its "generic name."
