Keppra, known generically as levetiracetam, is a common anti-epileptic drug (AED) prescribed to manage seizures. This medication works within the brain to control abnormal electrical activity that can lead to seizures. Keppra is a prescription-only medication, requiring diagnosis and ongoing supervision from a healthcare professional.
Seizure Types Treated by Keppra
Keppra is approved to treat several specific types of seizures in both adults and children. For focal onset seizures, which originate in a specific brain area, Keppra is an option for adults and children as young as one month. These seizures can cause various symptoms, such as muscle contractions or repetitive movements, depending on the affected brain region. Keppra can be used as an add-on therapy or as the sole medication for this type.
Keppra also treats generalized tonic-clonic seizures, previously known as grand mal seizures, in individuals typically aged six years and older. These seizures involve both sides of the brain, leading to a loss of consciousness and widespread muscle convulsions. Keppra is commonly used as an adjunctive therapy for this seizure type.
Additionally, Keppra treats myoclonic seizures, characterized by brief, shock-like jerks of muscles or muscle groups. It is approved for adults and adolescents generally aged twelve years and older, particularly those with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy. This form of epilepsy often begins in adolescence and features prominent myoclonic jerks. Keppra is typically used as an add-on treatment for myoclonic seizures.
How Keppra Works
The precise mechanism by which Keppra works is not fully understood. However, research suggests it stabilizes nerve cell activity in the brain, reducing irregular electrical impulses that trigger seizures. Unlike some other anti-epileptic drugs, Keppra does not primarily act by blocking sodium channels or enhancing specific neurotransmitter pathways like GABA.
A key aspect of Keppra’s action involves its binding to a protein called synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A). This protein is found on synaptic vesicles, small sacs within nerve cells that store and release neurotransmitters. By binding to SV2A, Keppra is thought to modulate the release of these neurotransmitters, helping to prevent the excessive and synchronized electrical activity that characterizes a seizure. This unique interaction with SV2A contributes to Keppra’s broad effectiveness across different seizure types.
Key Information About Keppra Treatment
While Keppra can effectively control seizures, it is not a cure for epilepsy. The medication works to manage seizure activity, often significantly reducing their occurrence and severity.
Adherence to the prescribed dosage and schedule is important for Keppra’s effectiveness. Patients should take the medication exactly as directed by their doctor and avoid sudden discontinuation, which could lead to an increase in seizure frequency. Keppra is available in various forms, including oral tablets, oral solutions, and an intravenous (IV) injection for situations where oral administration is not possible.
Treatment with Keppra is individualized, meaning the specific dosage and treatment plan are determined by a healthcare professional based on the patient’s unique needs and seizure type. While routine blood level monitoring is not always necessary, healthcare providers may monitor kidney and liver function, as well as observe for any behavioral changes, to ensure optimal and safe treatment.