Keppra Xr

Myoclonic Epilepsy, Juvenile, myoclonic seizures, Seizures + 4 more

Treatment

2 FDA approvals

4 Active Studies for Keppra Xr

Treatment for

Myoclonic Epilepsy, Juvenile

What is Keppra Xr

Levetiracetam

The Generic name of this drug

Treatment Summary

Levetiracetam is a medication used to treat various types of seizures caused by epileptic disorders. It was approved for use in the US in 1999 and is different from other anti-epileptic drugs. Levetiracetam has a wide therapeutic index and does not interact with other drugs, making it a desirable choice over other anti-epileptic drugs.

Keppra

is the brand name

Keppra Xr Overview & Background

Brand Name

Generic Name

First FDA Approval

How many FDA approvals?

Keppra

Levetiracetam

2000

604

Approved as Treatment by the FDA

Levetiracetam, otherwise known as Keppra, is approved by the FDA for 2 uses like Partial-Onset Seizures and Seizures .

Partial-Onset Seizures

Seizures

Effectiveness

How Keppra Xr Affects Patients

Levetiracetam works to prevent seizures, although the exact way it does this is unknown. Its effectiveness is high compared to other anti-seizure medications. Taking levetiracetam can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviour, so patients should be monitored for signs of depression, suicidal thoughts, and changes in behaviour.

How Keppra Xr works in the body

Levetiracetam works in a unique way compared to other anti-epileptic drugs. It binds to a protein called synaptic vesicle protein 2A, which is found on cells in the brain and helps control how neurotransmitters are released. By binding to this protein, levetiracetam can reduce the amount of neurotransmitters released. This helps prevent the over-firing of neurons that can lead to seizures. Levetiracetam also has indirect effects on GABAergic and glutamatergic receptors, as well as ionic currents and calcium channels, although it's unclear yet how these effects contribute

When to interrupt dosage

The prescribed measure of Keppra Xr is contingent upon the recognized malady, for example Seizures, Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy and Epilepsies. The dosage also relies upon the methodology of delivery (e.g. Tablet, for suspension or Intravascular) provided in the table beneath.

Condition

Dosage

Administration

Disease

, 100.0 mg/mL, 500.0 mg, 750.0 mg, 1000.0 mg, 250.0 mg, 1500.0 mg, 500.0 mg/mL, 5.0 mg/mL, 10.0 mg/mL, 15.0 mg/mL, 150.0 mg/mL

Solution, Solution - Oral, Oral, , Tablet, film coated - Oral, Tablet, film coated, Intravenous, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Tablet, extended release, Tablet, extended release - Oral, Tablet, film coated, extended release, Tablet, film coated, extended release - Oral, Injection, solution, concentrate, Injection, solution, concentrate - Intravenous, Injection, Injection, solution - Intravenous, Injection, solution, Tablet, for suspension, Tablet, for suspension - Oral, Tablet, Chewable, Extended Release - Oral, Tablet, Chewable, Extended Release, Solution - Intravenous, Aerosol - Oral, Injection - Intravenous, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution - Intravenous, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution, Injection - Intravascular, Intravascular, Aerosol

myoclonic seizures

, 100.0 mg/mL, 500.0 mg, 750.0 mg, 1000.0 mg, 250.0 mg, 1500.0 mg, 500.0 mg/mL, 5.0 mg/mL, 10.0 mg/mL, 15.0 mg/mL, 150.0 mg/mL

Seizures

, 100.0 mg/mL, 500.0 mg, 750.0 mg, 1000.0 mg, 250.0 mg, 1500.0 mg, 500.0 mg/mL, 5.0 mg/mL, 10.0 mg/mL, 15.0 mg/mL, 150.0 mg/mL

Epilepsy

, 100.0 mg/mL, 500.0 mg, 750.0 mg, 1000.0 mg, 250.0 mg, 1500.0 mg, 500.0 mg/mL, 5.0 mg/mL, 10.0 mg/mL, 15.0 mg/mL, 150.0 mg/mL

Epilepsy, Generalized

, 100.0 mg/mL, 500.0 mg, 750.0 mg, 1000.0 mg, 250.0 mg, 1500.0 mg, 500.0 mg/mL, 5.0 mg/mL, 10.0 mg/mL, 15.0 mg/mL, 150.0 mg/mL

Obesity

, 100.0 mg/mL, 500.0 mg, 750.0 mg, 1000.0 mg, 250.0 mg, 1500.0 mg, 500.0 mg/mL, 5.0 mg/mL, 10.0 mg/mL, 15.0 mg/mL, 150.0 mg/mL

Myoclonic Epilepsy, Juvenile

, 100.0 mg/mL, 500.0 mg, 750.0 mg, 1000.0 mg, 250.0 mg, 1500.0 mg, 500.0 mg/mL, 5.0 mg/mL, 10.0 mg/mL, 15.0 mg/mL, 150.0 mg/mL

Warnings

Keppra Xr Contraindications

Condition

Risk Level

Notes

Severe Hypersensitivity Reactions

Do Not Combine

Levetiracetam may interact with Pulse Frequency

There are 20 known major drug interactions with Keppra Xr.

Common Keppra Xr Drug Interactions

Drug Name

Risk Level

Description

Azelastine

Major

Levetiracetam may increase the central nervous system depressant (CNS depressant) activities of Azelastine.

Ethanol

Major

Levetiracetam may increase the central nervous system depressant (CNS depressant) activities of Ethanol.

Oliceridine

Major

The risk or severity of hypotension, sedation, death, somnolence, and respiratory depression can be increased when Levetiracetam is combined with Oliceridine.

Thalidomide

Major

Levetiracetam may increase the central nervous system depressant (CNS depressant) activities of Thalidomide.

Daridorexant

Minor

The risk or severity of CNS depression can be increased when Levetiracetam is combined with Daridorexant.

Keppra Xr Toxicity & Overdose Risk

The lowest toxic dose of levetiracetam in humans is 10 mg/kg. Symptoms of overdose may include restlessness, aggression, sleepiness, reduced consciousness, difficulty breathing, or a coma. There is no specific antidote for levetiracetam overdose, so treatment should focus on providing general support and managing symptoms. Hemodialysis can be used to reduce the amount of levetiracetam in the bloodstream by about 50% in 4 hours.

image of a doctor in a lab doing drug, clinical research

Keppra Xr Novel Uses: Which Conditions Have a Clinical Trial Featuring Keppra Xr?

Three active clinical trials are presently exploring the potential of Keppra Xr in ameliorating myoclonic seizures, Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy and Idiopathic Generalized Epilepsy.

Condition

Clinical Trials

Trial Phases

Epilepsy

0 Actively Recruiting

Seizures

5 Actively Recruiting

Phase 3, Phase 2, Phase 1

Epilepsy, Generalized

0 Actively Recruiting

myoclonic seizures

0 Actively Recruiting

Myoclonic Epilepsy, Juvenile

0 Actively Recruiting

Disease

0 Actively Recruiting

Obesity

0 Actively Recruiting

Keppra Xr Reviews: What are patients saying about Keppra Xr?

Patient Review

5/11/2013

Keppra Xr for Additional Medication for Tonic-Clonic Epilepsy

This medicine completely stopped my seizures. I only experienced some emotional side effects, which were manageable. So overall, this was a great experience and I'm glad to have found something that works for me.

Patient Review

9/14/2019

Keppra Xr for Simple Partial Seizures

This treatment has been working great for me, but lately I've been having trouble getting the medication. I'm told that it's out of stock and that the company has run out. This is frustrating, as this is a drug that actually works. I hope someone can find out what's going on.

Patient Review

2/3/2012

Keppra Xr for Convulsive Seizures

I've been doing great on this medication.

Patient Review

6/27/2014

Keppra Xr for Convulsive Seizures

I appreciate that my doctor started me on a low dosage and gradually increased it as needed. I've only had one seizure since starting this treatment, which was due to missing a dose. The side effects are manageable for me, as the alternative of having seizures is much worse.

Patient Review

12/8/2011

Keppra Xr for Convulsive Seizures

I take keppra 500mg twice a day. I had a tumor removed six months ago and wonder when I can start to wean myself off this medication.

Patient Review

12/8/2011

Keppra Xr for Convulsive Seizures

I take keppra 500 mg 2 times a day. I had a tumor removed 6 months ago and this medication has really helped me. I'm wondering when I can start to wean off of it though.

Patient Review

2/3/2012

Keppra Xr for Convulsive Seizures

This medication has been doing great things for me.

Patient Review

5/11/2013

Keppra Xr for Additional Medication for Tonic-Clonic Epilepsy

This medicine was prescribed to me three years ago for my tonic-clonic partial onset seizures. I have not had a seizure since starting this medication and, though there were some initial emotional side effects, I am much happier now that I don't have to worry about them anymore.

Patient Review

6/27/2014

Keppra Xr for Convulsive Seizures

Though I was initially apprehensive about the potential side effects, this treatment has really helped me. I've only had one seizure since starting it, and that was because I missed a dose.

Patient Review

9/14/2019

Keppra Xr for Simple Partial Seizures

I've had great results with this medication, but lately it's been hard to come by. I'm not sure what the issue is, but I hope they can get it sorted out soon.

Patient Review

5/8/2014

Keppra Xr for Convulsive Seizures

I'm incredibly thankful for this treatment. I've had a brain tumor for 16 years, and it's been 7 years since my last seizure.

Patient Review

5/8/2014

Keppra Xr for Convulsive Seizures

I'm incredibly grateful for this treatment. I've been living with a brain tumor for 16 years, and it's helped me immensely.

4.7

Patient Review

7/13/2015

Keppra Xr for Additional Medication for Tonic-Clonic Epilepsy

I haven't experienced any negative side effects from this medication. If anything, I've been a little sleepier; but that might just be because of the other medications I take for seizures.

4.7

Patient Review

7/13/2015

Keppra Xr for Additional Medication for Tonic-Clonic Epilepsy

I have had no negative side effects from this medication. I may be a little sleepier, but that could also be due to the other medications I'm taking for seizures.

4.3

Patient Review

11/15/2013

Keppra Xr for Simple Partial Seizures

Keppra has been a great help to me in managing my complex partial seizures. I've taken it at various strengths (1000-4000 mg) over the years and it's always worked well for me. However, it is known to cause sudden mood changes or outbursts of anger that can be difficult to control. I've experienced this firsthand many times, but when weighed against the alternative of uncontrolled seizures, the side effects are worth it.

4.3

Patient Review

7/25/2016

Keppra Xr for Additional Medication for Tonic-Clonic Epilepsy

This medication has been very effective for me, but like any other epilepsy medication, it does have its side effects. They call it Kepprage for a reason; I've tried many different strengths and drugs over the years, and this one seems to be helping the most.

4.3

Patient Review

11/15/2013

Keppra Xr for Simple Partial Seizures

I've been using Keppra for complex partial seizures and it's worked wonders for me. I've tried multiple strengths (1000 mg to 4000 mg) and found that they all work well. However, it's important to note that Keppra can cause sudden mood changes or outbursts of anger that are hard to control. I've experienced these mood changes many times, but with epilepsy, you have to weigh the side effects against the seizures and choose what's best for you.

4.3

Patient Review

7/25/2016

Keppra Xr for Additional Medication for Tonic-Clonic Epilepsy

This medication has been quite effective for me over the years, though like any epilepsy medication it does have some side effects. They call it Kepprage for a reason; I've tried many different strengths and drugs over the years, but this one seems to be helping the most.

3.7

Patient Review

10/31/2012

Keppra Xr for Simple Partial Seizures

After finding out that my "episodes" were actually seizures, I was prescribed this medication. At first, I was hesitant about the potential side effects but it has done great for me. I started on the lowest dose and after three weeks, was increased to triple the amount. This change has been great! I did notice some emotional changes at the start--I was more irritated, emotional, and withdrawn--but I told the doctor about the problems and after a month I was fine.

3.7

Patient Review

10/31/2012

Keppra Xr for Simple Partial Seizures

I was initially skeptical about this medication due to the potential side effects, but it has done wonders for me. I started on a low dose and after three weeks was increased to triple the amount. I did notice some emotional changes at first; however, after talking to my doctor, we were able to adjust the dosage and now I'm feeling great!

Patient Review

9/3/2013

Keppra Xr for Additional Medication for Tonic-Clonic Epilepsy

My levels are currently too high and I'm working with my doctor to get them under control.

Patient Review

5/22/2015

Keppra Xr for Additional Medication for Tonic-Clonic Epilepsy

I take 3000mg/day of this medication, which is the maximum dosage. I also take vimpat. Even after 10 years, the side effects are still very unpleasant. However, my doctors do not want to change my combination of medications because, although it does not completely control my seizures, it has worked better than anything else we've tried.

Patient Review

5/22/2015

Keppra Xr for Additional Medication for Tonic-Clonic Epilepsy

Even with the maximum dosage, I still experience bad side effects. My doctors don't want to change my medication because it's been the most effective so far, even though it doesn't completely control my seizures.

Patient Review

9/3/2013

Keppra Xr for Additional Medication for Tonic-Clonic Epilepsy

My level is currently too high and I'm considered toxic. They're working on getting it under control, but it's been a struggle.

2.7

Patient Review

10/29/2014

Keppra Xr for Additional Medication for Tonic-Clonic Epilepsy

I have tonic-clonic seizures and I'm currently taking 1,000 mg twice daily. I get regular headaches and bad mood swings that I can't control. I hope they find something that works better for me soon.

2.7

Patient Review

10/29/2014

Keppra Xr for Additional Medication for Tonic-Clonic Epilepsy

I have tonic-clonic seizures and I'm currently taking 1000mg twice daily. The headaches and mood swings are really tough to deal with, and I hope they find a better solution soon.

2.3

Patient Review

6/14/2014

Keppra Xr for Simple Partial Seizures

I saw some initial success with this drug, but unfortunately the seizures have returned and they are stronger than ever. I'm planning on discontinuing the medication because it's not working for me.

2.3

Patient Review

6/14/2014

Keppra Xr for Simple Partial Seizures

At first, this medication kept my seizures at bay. I was on a lower dosage then, but now that I'm up to 1,000mg 2x a day, the seizures are worse than ever. I really want to stop taking it because it's not working for me.

Patient Review

1/24/2017

Keppra Xr for Simple Partial Seizures

I had a really bad reaction to this medication. I developed blisters in my mouth and my neck glands swelled up. It also decreased urine output, which led to me having to go on diuretics. I would not recommend this drug if it is the best out there.

Patient Review

1/24/2017

Keppra Xr for Simple Partial Seizures

I had a really bad experience with this treatment. I got blisters in my mouth and my neck glands swelled up. It also decreased urine output, which led to me being put on diuretics by my cardiologist.

image of drug pills surrounding a glass of water symbolizing drug consumption

Patient Q&A Section about keppra xr

These questions and answers are submitted by anonymous patients, and have not been verified by our internal team.

What is Keppra XR used for?

"Keppra XR is an anti-seizure medication used to treat partial onset seizures in adults and children aged 4 and up, tonic-clonic seizures in adults and children aged 6 and up, and myoclonic seizures in adults and children."

Answered by AI

What is the difference between Keppra and Keppra XR?

"Keppra XR is the extended-release form of the same medication. The extended-release formulation allows the medicine to be released over a longer period of time. Most people require Keppra to be taken two or more times daily."

Answered by AI