Keppra 750 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

KEPPRA 750 MG TABLET is an anti-epileptic medication manufactured by DR. REDDYS LABORATORIES LTD..

Name

• Brand Name: KEPPRA 750 MG TABLET
• Common Name: Levetiracetam 750 mg

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Levetiracetam 750 mg

Uses

KEPPRA 750 MG TABLET is primarily used to treat seizures (fits) in patients with epilepsy. It can be used alone or as an add-on therapy with other medicines to prevent various types of seizures. These include:

• Partial-onset seizures with or without secondary generalization in adults, adolescents, children, and infants.
• Myoclonic seizures in adults and adolescents (12 years and older) with Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy.
• Primary generalized tonic-clonic (or grand mal) seizures in adults and adolescents (6 years and older) with Idiopathic Generalized Epilepsy.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage depends on the patient's condition, age, weight, and response to the medicine, and should be advised by a doctor.

• KEPPRA 750 MG TABLET is generally taken orally, usually twice daily, with or without food.
• Tablets should be swallowed whole with water and should not be crushed or chewed, as they may have a bitter taste.
• Treatment is often long-term, and consistent daily intake at the same time is recommended for maximum benefit. Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting a doctor, as this may worsen seizures.

Side Effects

Common side effects often occur during the first few weeks and usually lessen as the body adjusts.

• Common: Sleepiness (somnolence), dizziness, fatigue, headache, decreased appetite, irritation, aggressive behavior, nasal congestion, infection, nausea, tremors, vertigo, lethargy, and behavioral changes.
• Serious: Mood changes (such as depression, anxiety, agitation, anger), suicidal thoughts or behavior, severe allergic reactions (e.g., rash, swelling of the face/throat, trouble breathing), serious skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome), problems with blood cells, and loss of coordination. Contact a doctor if these occur.

Precautions

• Kidney Problems: Patients with kidney problems may require a dose adjustment.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed and after careful assessment by a doctor, as levetiracetam can be excreted in human milk.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it may increase drowsiness and calmness.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: KEPPRA can cause sleepiness or dizziness; do not drive or operate machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
• Mental/Mood Changes: Monitor for any unusual changes in mood, thoughts, or behavior, including suicidal ideation.

Storage

• Store below 30°C.
• Keep in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

What is Keppra 750 MG Tablet used for?

Keppra 750 MG Tablet, containing levetiracetam, is an anti-epileptic medication used to treat various types of seizures (fits) in epilepsy. It can be used alone or in combination with other anti-epileptic medicines. This includes partial-onset seizures, myoclonic seizures, and primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures.

How does Keppra 750 MG Tablet work?

Keppra 750 MG Tablet works by slowing down abnormal electrical signals in the brain that cause seizures. It attaches to specific sites (SV2A) on the surfaces of nerve cells, which helps suppress the abnormal activity of these cells and prevents the spread of electrical signals that trigger seizures.

What is the usual dosage for Keppra 750 MG Tablet?

For adults and adolescents (12-17 years of age) weighing 50 kg or more, the typical starting dose as an add-on therapy is 500 mg twice daily. Depending on the patient's response and tolerance, the daily dose can be increased up to 1500 mg twice daily (3000 mg/day total). Doses are usually increased in 500 mg increments or decrements every 2 to 4 weeks. It's important to take the medicine at the same time each day, with or without food, as directed by your doctor. Keppra tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed as they may have a bitter taste.

What are the possible side effects of Keppra 750 MG Tablet?

Common side effects can include sleepiness, dizziness, fatigue, headache, decreased appetite, and nasal congestion. Behavioral changes, such as irritability, aggression, agitation, and anxiety, have also been reported, particularly in children. Some serious, though rare, side effects can include thoughts of self-harm or suicide, severe allergic reactions, and serious skin reactions. If you experience any severe or unusual symptoms, or if your mood changes for the worse, contact your doctor immediately.

Is Keppra 750 MG Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During pregnancy, Keppra 750 MG Tablet should only be used if clearly needed and after a careful assessment by your doctor of the potential benefits versus risks. Unmanaged seizures during pregnancy can also pose risks to both the mother and the baby. If you are pregnant or planning to conceive, discuss treatment options with your doctor, and they may recommend monitoring and folic acid supplementation.

Levetiracetam, the active ingredient in Keppra, passes into breast milk. It is not known whether it affects breastfed children, so consult your doctor before breastfeeding while taking this medication. Some evidence suggests it might reduce maternal breast milk supply.

Can Keppra 750 MG Tablet be taken with other medications?

Keppra can interact with certain other medications, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing side effects. For example, other antiepileptic drugs like carbamazepine, phenytoin, and valproic acid may interact with Keppra. Sedatives, tranquilizers, and sleep medications such as benzodiazepines can enhance the sedative effects of Keppra, leading to increased drowsiness and impaired coordination. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products you are taking to prevent possible interactions. Avoid taking macrogol (a laxative) for one hour before and after taking levetiracetam, as it may reduce Keppra's effect.

What precautions should be taken with Keppra 750 MG Tablet?

Keppra may cause sleepiness or drowsiness, especially when starting treatment or after a dose increase. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how the medication affects you. Alcohol consumption should be avoided as it can worsen side effects like dizziness and drowsiness. Inform your doctor if you have kidney problems, depression, or suicidal thoughts, as the dose may need adjustment or closer monitoring. Do not stop taking Keppra abruptly, as this can worsen seizures. Your doctor will advise on gradually decreasing the dose if treatment needs to be stopped.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a forgotten tablet, as this can increase the risk of side effects. Missing doses can trigger seizures.

How should Keppra 750 MG Tablet be stored?

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets. Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed; ask your healthcare professional how to dispose of any unused medicine properly. Keppra does not require any special storage conditions below 30°C.