M DeVries-Rizzo, BScN, MScN, RN(EC) Nurse Practitioner, Paediatric Neurology, Children’s Hospital, LHSC
Disclaimer: The contents are for informational purposes only . The content is not intended to be a substitute for pro fessional
medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always see k the advice of your health care provider with any ques tions that you
may have regarding this medication.
Generic Name: Levetiracetam
Brand Name: Keppra
What Is It Used For?
Decreasing seizure activity in various types of seizures.
How Long Does The Medicine Take To Work?
1-2 days
What Are The Important Safety Concerns?
When first starting the medicine, your child may be slightly drowsy and dizzy.
Only adjust the dosage as recommended by your health care provider. They will
usually increase this medication slowly to avoid side effects. Never increase the
dosage more than once per week unless directed otherwise.
Once you have started with one brand of the medication stay with it. Avoid
switching between different brands.
Check with your pharmacist before taking herbal medications and/or over-the-
counter medications. They may have adverse effects if taken with anti-seizure
medications.
Do not stop taking this medication suddenly because this could result in seizures.
It is important to keep a record of your child’s seizures and side effects to
determine how well they are responding to the medication.
What are the Possible Side Effects?
Dizziness*
Weakness *
Depression
Infection*
Anxiety
Aggression
Numbness*
Nervousness
Agitation
Sleepiness*
Behaviour problems*
*more common side effects
How Do I Give The Medication?
Give with food or milk to reduce stomach upset and/or to improve the
taste if needed. Do not give with an antacid medication.
Give your child the medication as close to the same time as possible each day and
only the amount prescribed.
If your child misses a dose, give the dose as soon as you remember or can. If the
next dose of the medicine needs to be given in less than 4 hours, do not give the
dose you forgot. Give the next dose a little earlier and then return to giving the
medicine at the usual times after that.
If your child vomits
within 30 minutes
of taking the medication, repeat the dose.
If your child vomits
after 30 minutes
of taking the medication, do not repeat the
dose.
