Keppra XR

Keppra XR is a long-acting prescription drug used to control partial seizures in people with epilepsy. It is only approved to be used along with other seizure medications. Studies show that adding this drug to existing seizure medications significantly reduced the frequency of seizures. The medication comes in tablet form and is taken just once daily. Potential side effects include drowsiness, irritability, and the flu.

Keppra XR Drug Information

What Is Keppra XR?

Keppra XR™ (levetiracetam XR) is a prescription medication used to treat epilepsy. It is a long-acting seizure medication that is taken just once a day. It is approved to treat partial seizures in adults and adolescents 16 years old and older. Keppra XR is approved only for use in combination with other seizure medications; it is not approved to be used alone.

(Click Keppra XR Uses for more information on what the drug is used for, including possible off-label uses.)

Who Makes It?

Keppra XR is made by UCB, Inc.

How Does It Work?

Epilepsy is a brain disorder caused by recurring, brief changes in the brain's electrical system. These changes in brain activity can lead to a seizure (see Epilepsy Symptoms). It is not known exactly how Keppra XR works to prevent partial seizures in people with epilepsy. In fact, studies have shown that it does not work like any other seizure medication.

Effects of Keppra XR

In one study, adding Keppra XR to other seizure medications (that people were already taking) reduced the frequency of partial seizures by up to 46.

1 percent on average, compared to a reduction of only 33.4 percent when a placebo (a "sugar pill" with no active ingredients) was added.

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