Levesam 500 Tablet

Here is a detailed product description for LEVESAM 500 TABLET:

LEVESAM 500 TABLET by ABBOTT

Name

• Brand Name: Levesam 500 Tablet
• Common Name: Levetiracetam (500mg)

Composition

• Each tablet contains Levetiracetam 500 mg as the active ingredient.

Uses

Levesam 500 Tablet is an anti-epileptic medication prescribed for the treatment and prevention of seizures (fits) in epilepsy. It can be used as a monotherapy or in conjunction with other anti-epileptic drugs. It is effective in controlling various types of seizures, including:

• Partial-onset seizures
• Myoclonic seizures
• Primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures (grand mal)
• Management of epileptic seizures in both children and adults.

Dosage and Administration

• Levesam 500 Tablet is taken orally, with or without food.
• It should be swallowed whole without crushing or breaking.
• For optimal benefit, it is recommended to take the medicine at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in the body.
• The dosage is determined by a healthcare professional based on the patient's condition and response to treatment.
• It is typically advised as a long-term treatment, and patients should continue taking it as long as prescribed, even if feeling well.
• Do not stop taking Levesam 500 Tablet abruptly without consulting a doctor, as this can worsen seizures.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Sleepiness/Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Fatigue/Tiredness
• Headache
• Decreased appetite
• Behavioral changes, including aggression, irritation, agitation
• Nasal congestion (stuffy nose)
• Infection
• Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Indigestion
• Tremors, Vertigo, Lethargy

Serious Side Effects (less common):

• Suicidal thoughts or actions
• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)

Precautions

• Alcohol: Consumption of alcohol is unsafe while taking Levesam 500 Tablet, as it may increase side effects like dizziness and drowsiness.
• Pregnancy: Levesam 500 Tablet is generally considered safe if prescribed during pregnancy, with most studies showing low or no risk to the developing baby. However, it should only be used if clearly necessary, and a doctor should be consulted.
• Breastfeeding: Levetiracetam passes into breast milk. While it is probably safe if prescribed, it is advisable to consult a doctor before use while breastfeeding.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or affect vision. Patients should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if they experience these symptoms.
• Kidney Disease: Use with caution in patients with kidney disease. The dose may need adjustment.
• Psychiatric Illness/Suicidal Thoughts: Inform your doctor if you have a history of psychiatric illness or suicidal thoughts. Close observation for changes in mood or behavior is necessary.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medicines, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal preparations you are taking to avoid altered responses or undesired effects.

Storage

• Store Levesam 500 Tablet at room temperature, ideally below 25°C or 30°C.
• Protect it from light and moisture.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets.
• Do not use this medicine after the expiry date.

Frequently Asked Questions about LEVESAM 500 TABLET by ABBOTT

What is Levesam 500 Tablet used for?

Levesam 500 Tablet, containing Levetiracetam, is an anti-epileptic medicine primarily used to treat seizures (fits) associated with epilepsy. It can be used alone or in combination with other medications to manage various seizure types, including partial-onset, myoclonic, and primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures.

How does Levesam 500 Tablet work?

Levesam 500 Tablet works by reducing abnormal electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures. Its active ingredient, Levetiracetam, attaches to specific sites (SV2A protein) on the surfaces of nerve cells, thereby suppressing the abnormal activity of these cells and preventing the spread of electrical signals that lead to seizures.

What is the usual dosage of Levesam 500 Tablet?

The usual starting dose for adults is typically 500 mg twice daily. However, the exact dosage and frequency are determined by your doctor based on individual factors such as age, weight, medical condition, and response to treatment. The maximum recommended dose can be up to 3000 mg per day. It is crucial to follow your doctor's prescribed dose and not to stop taking the medication abruptly.

What are the possible side effects of Levesam 500 Tablet?

Common side effects include headache, dizziness, drowsiness or sleepiness, fatigue, aggression or anger, anxiety, mood swings, decreased appetite, and infection. These symptoms are often more frequent during the first few weeks of treatment and may lessen as your body adjusts. Rarely, more serious side effects such as suicidal thoughts or changes in mood can occur, and it is important to contact your doctor if you experience these.

Is Levesam 500 Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During Pregnancy: Levesam 500 Tablet is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy unless clearly necessary and prescribed by a doctor after a careful assessment of potential risks and benefits.

During Breastfeeding: Levesam 500 Tablet is generally not advised while breastfeeding as Levetiracetam is excreted in human milk and may affect the baby's health. It is essential to consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding.

Can Levesam 500 Tablet be taken with other medications?

It is important to inform your doctor about all ongoing medications to avoid potential drug interactions.

• Alcohol should be avoided as it can increase side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating.
• Laxatives containing macrogol may decrease the effect of Levesam 500 Tablet.
• Concomitant use with other epilepsy medicines like carbamazepine, lamotrigine, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, or phenytoin may increase the risk of side effects.
• Taking it with methotrexate (used for arthritis) can cause toxicity.
• Opioids, cetirizine, or levocetirizine may increase the risk of dizziness and drowsiness.

What precautions should be taken while on Levesam 500 Tablet?

Do not stop taking Levesam 500 Tablet suddenly, as this can worsen seizures; the dose should be gradually decreased under medical supervision. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience dizziness, drowsiness, or decreased alertness. Exercise caution if you have kidney or liver problems, as dosage adjustments may be necessary. Your doctor may monitor your kidney function with regular blood tests. Also, be aware of mood changes, depression, or suicidal thoughts and report them to your doctor immediately.

What happens if a dose of Levesam 500 Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if your next dose is approaching, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the chances of side effects.

How should Levesam 500 Tablet be stored?

Levesam 500 Tablet should be stored at room temperature, typically below 25°C or 30°C. Keep the tablets protected from light and moisture, and out of the reach of children. Do not use this medicine after its expiry date.