Levetiracetam

Generally, the common side effects tend to occur at the beginning of treatment. Such side effects may include:

• Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, tiredness, weakness, double vision. Be careful when using over-the-counter medications for your child. Medications for allergy or cold can add on to the drowsiness. Be sure to supervise your child when he/she is involved in activities such as cycling or swimming.
• Unusual behavioral changes such as anxiety, depression, irritability, aggression etc.
• Neck pain, problems with balance/coordination, tingling or prickling sensation on skin.
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, indigestion and loss of appetite. If the medicine upsets the stomach, take it with food, but do not take it with carbonated drinks.
• Cough, sore throat, allergic nose.

Inform your doctor if any of the above side effects lasts for more than a few days or if they become serious or bothersome.

 

Rare but serious side effects may sometimes occur. Contact your doctor as soon as possible if you notice any of the following:

• Hallucinations (Seeing or hearing things that are not there).
• Skin rash, itchy or peeling skin.
• Unusual bruises or bleeding, prolonged fever, sore throat, mouth sores.

Inform your doctor if you notice any other unusual symptoms in your child. Always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist if your child has any problems or difficulties during or after taking levetiracetam.

Levetiracetam is usually taken 2 times a day. The doctor may start your child on a low dose and then slowly increase the dose. Follow the instructions on the label carefully and ask your pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure.

• Do not take this medication more often than directed and do not stop until instructed by your doctor. Stopping this medicine too rapidly can increase the risk of seizures.
• Do not change brands or dosage forms without informing your doctor. This should be carried out under doctor's close supervision.

Oral liquid form

• Shake well before using. Use a medicine spoon or the graduated syringe provided to measure your medicine. Do not use household spoons as they may not be accurate. The oral solution may be diluted in some water before taking.

Tablet form

• Swallow the tablets with a glass of water. Levetiracetam can be taken with or without food.

• Give your child the dose as soon as you remember and then continue to take it as you normally give. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and give the next dose at the usual time.
• Do not double or increase the dose.
• If your child has missed more than two doses or you are not sure of what to do, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
• If your child has less than two weeks supply of medication, please ensure that you have made an appointment with your child’s neurologist or made arrangements to collect more medication.

Keep away from children;#Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight;#

Once opened, store the syrup in the original bottle for up to four months.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you want to give any other medicines, supplements or herbal products to your child.

If your child sees another doctor, inform him/her that your child is taking levetiracetam before your doctor prescribes any other medications.