Keppra

Keppra is commonly prescribed in combination with other seizure medications for the treatment of certain types of epileptic seizures, including partial seizures and myoclonic seizures. It is available in the form of a tablet or a liquid that is taken by mouth twice a day. There is also an injectable form of Keppra that can be given intravenously to people who cannot take the medication orally. Drowsiness, difficulty breathing, and agitation are common side effects seen with this medication.

Keppra Medication Information

What Is Keppra?

Keppra^® (levetiracetam) is a prescription medication used to treat epilepsy. In particular, it is approved to treat the following types of seizures:

Partial seizures in adults and children as young as one month old
Myoclonic seizures in adults and adolescents age 12 and older
Generalized tonic clonic ("grand mal") seizures in adults and children age six and older.

It is approved only for use in combination with other seizure medications; it is not approved to be used alone.

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

Who Makes Keppra?

Currently, it 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 the medication works to prevent partial seizures in people with epilepsy. In fact, studies have shown that Keppra does not work like any other seizure medication.

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