Levera 500mg Tablet 15'S

Introduction About LEVERA 500MG TABLET

Levera 500mg Tablet is a prescription medication primarily used for the management of epilepsy (seizures). It works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures. It can be used alone or along with other medicines.

Levera 500mg Tablet helps control abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It can be taken with or without food, but it is best to take it at the same time each day for optimal effect. The dosage will vary based on your condition and response to the medication, and your doctor will determine the appropriate dose for you. This medication is typically used as a long-term treatment. It is important to continue taking it as prescribed, even if you feel fine. Stopping or missing doses could lead to a worsening of your seizures.

The most common side effects of this medicine include dizziness, tiredness, headache, drowsiness, mood changes, nausea, irritation, sleepiness, behavior changes, aggressive behavior, and decreased appetite. These effects are more frequent in the first few weeks and generally decrease as your body adjusts to the medication. While most side effects are not serious, some may require medical attention. A small number of individuals using this medication have experienced thoughts of self-harm or suicide. If you notice any worsening of your mood, reach out to your doctor.

Before starting this medication, it is important to inform your doctor if you have kidney problems or liver problems, a history of depression or suicidal thoughts, or if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. Your doctor may recommend routine blood tests to check your kidney function during management.

Uses Of LEVERA 500MG TABLET

• Epilepsy (seizures)

Benefits of LEVERA 500MG TABLET

1. Effective in Seizure Control: Levera helps manage and reduce seizures, especially in patients with epilepsy.
2. Supports Neurological Health: It is beneficial for patients suffering from various neurological disorders.
3. Minimal Drug Interactions: Levera is known for having a low potential for interaction with other medications.
4. Improved Patient Compliance: The once-daily dosage of Levera enhances convenience and patient adherence.
5. Safe for Long-Term Use: Levera can be safely used over a long duration under proper medical supervision.
6. Well-Tolerated by Most Patients: Generally, Levera has a mild side effect profile compared to other antiepileptic drugs.
7. Easy to Administer: Available in a convenient tablet form for easy consumption.

How LEVERA 500MG TABLET Works

Levera contains levetiracetam, which works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain. It is believed to modulate the release of neurotransmitters and reduce abnormal electrical impulses that cause seizures. The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it is thought to interact with certain brain proteins that help control neuron activity.

How to use LEVERA 500MG TABLET

How to Take Levera Tablet?

• Take Levera tablet as prescribed by your doctor.
• The usual dosage varies depending on the patient's age, weight, and severity of the condition.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the medication.

• Do not exceed the recommended daily dosage.
• Levera tablet can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food may help reduce any potential stomach upset.
• It is important to take Levera at the same time every day. This helps maintain stable levels of the medication in your blood and ensures the most effective management.

Dosage Recommendations for adults and children:

For Adults:

• The typical starting dose is 500 mg twice a day which may be adjusted based on the response.

For Children (Age 6 months to 16 years):

• For children aged 6 months to 4 years, the typical starting dose is 10 mg/kg twice a day, which can be adjusted based on the child’s weight and response.
• For children aged 4 years and above, the starting dose is usually 500 mg twice a day.

What if I forgot to take LEVERA 500MG TABLET

1.Take the Missed Dose as Soon as You Remember:

• If you realize you have missed a dose and it’s still close to the time for the next dose, take it as soon as possible. Do not double up on the next dose to make up for the missed one.

2.If It is Almost Time for Your Next Dose:

• If it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, simply skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at once.

3.Continue with Your Regular Dosing Schedule:

• After skipping the missed dose, resume taking your medication at the usual time and frequency.

4.Contact Your Healthcare Provider if You're Unsure:

• If you are unsure or have missed multiple doses, it is best to consult your doctor. They can provide specific guidance based on your situation.

5.Do not Stop the Medication Suddenly:

• It is important not to stop taking Levera suddenly unless directed by your doctor. Abruptly stopping could affect your condition.

Overdose

What to Do in Case of Overdose:

If you or anyone else accidentally take too much of Levera 500mg Tablet, consult, and inform your doctor immediately or visit the nearby hospital. Symptoms of overdose are drowsiness, sleepiness, aggression, dizziness, agitation, irritability, inhibition of breathing, decrease of alertness and seizure activity or coma.

Side Effects Of LEVERA 500MG TABLET

Like all medicines, Levera Tablet may cause certain side effects in some individuals, although not everybody gets them.

The most common side effects of taking Levera Tablet are:

• Dizziness
• Tiredness
• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Mood changes
• Nausea
• Irritation
• Sleepiness
• Behavior changes
• Aggressive behavior
• Decreased appetite

When to consult your doctor?

• Severe allergic reactions symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue, rash, or itching.
• Mood or mental changes symptoms such as depression, anxiety, aggression, agitation, hallucinations, or thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
• Blood disorder symptoms such as unusual bruising or bleeding
• Severe drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty concentrating
• Rhabdomyolysis symptoms such as muscle weakness, pain, or cramping
• Severe dizziness or loss of coordination
• Liver problems symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or severe abdominal pain

How To Manage Side Effects

Warning & Precautions

Other Warnings for LEVERA 500MG TABLET

Before taking Levera tablet, inform your doctor if you have or had:

• Seizure history
• Salt imbalance

Who should not take [GBNKEYWORD

Levera tablet is generally not safe for use if you have or had:

• Psychiatric or mood disorders such as mood changes, irritability, or depression.

Safety Advice

• Take Levera 500mg Tablet as prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the medication.

• Do not exceed the recommended daily dosage.
• It is recommended to take Levera 500mg Tablet with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset.
• Let your doctor know If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding women or kidney problems or liver problems.
• Do not suddenly stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor, stopping abruptly can increase the risk of seizures.
• Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, or mood changes. If you experience more serious side effects like depression, suicidal thoughts, unusual behavior, or severe allergic reactions, seek medical help immediately.
• Alcohol can increase side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness. Be sure to inform your doctor about any other medications (including over-the-counter and herbal products) you are taking to prevent harmful interactions.
• Some healthy tips to help reduce seizures such as maintain a balanced diet and engage in regular physical activity, incorporate daily yoga practice into your routine, ensure you get adequate sleep each night, reduce screen time, including mobile and laptop usage and take your medications as prescribed and on time.
• Levetiracetam can cause drowsiness or dizziness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the drug affects you.
• Keep up with regular doctor visits to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to the dosage.
• Do not switch your medicine brand and ensure you have enough medicine available.

Drug - Drug interaction

Inform your physician if you are taking any of the following medicine before taking Levera tablet:

1. Other Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs)

Interaction: Drugs like carbamazepine, phenytoin, and valproate can interact with Levera, potentially altering the levels of either drug in the blood.

Effect: This could either increase the risk of side effects (e.g., dizziness, sedation, or ataxia) or reduce seizure control.

Management:

• Monitor blood levels of both drugs regularly.
• Adjust dosages as needed under medical supervision.
• Consider using an alternative AED if interactions are significant.

2. CNS Depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines)

Interaction: Combining Levera with other central nervous system depressants may amplify sedative effects.

Effect: This can cause increased drowsiness, dizziness, and risk of falls or impaired motor function.

Management:

• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Monitor for signs of excessive sedation.
• Adjust the dose or switch medications if necessary.

3. Antigout medication (e.g., probenecid)

Interaction: Probenecid, a medication used to treat gout, can decrease the renal clearance of Levera.

Effect: This can increase the concentration of Levera in the blood, potentially leading to toxicity.

Management:

• Monitor Levera blood levels.
• Dose adjustment of Levera may be needed.

4. Other anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)

Interaction: Levera may slightly alter the effectiveness of warfarin, potentially increasing bleeding risk.

Effect: Changes in coagulation could lead to bleeding complications.

Management:

• Regularly monitor INR (International Normalized Ratio) levels to assess blood clotting.
• Adjust warfarin doses accordingly.

5. Oral Contraceptives

Interaction: Some AEDs can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, though Levera has not shown significant interaction.

Effect: While Levera does not significantly lower contraceptive efficacy, other drugs in combination might.

Management:

• Consider using additional non-hormonal contraceptive methods if taking other AEDs or if concerned about interaction.

6. Other Drugs Metabolized by Cytochrome P450 Enzymes

Interaction: Levera is minimally metabolized by the liver, meaning it has fewer interactions with drugs that affect the P450 enzyme system (e.g., some antifungals or antibiotics).

Effect: Levera’s blood levels are usually not impacted by drugs that interact with the P450 system, though caution should still be exercised.

Management:

• No major adjustments needed, but monitoring for other signs of drug interactions is still recommended.

Drug - Food interaction

Alcohol:

• Alcohol and Levera should be consumed with caution. Both alcohol and Levera can have sedative effects, leading to increased drowsiness or dizziness. Combining them might enhance these effects, increasing the risk of accidents or falls.
• In some cases, alcohol could also potentially reduce the effectiveness of Levera in controlling seizures.
• It is often recommended to avoid drinking alcohol while on Levera, especially if you are using it for seizure control.

Caffeine:

• Caffeine does not directly interact with Levera, but it is important to note that caffeine is a stimulant and can potentially interfere with sleep or increase anxiety in some individuals.
• If you are sensitive to caffeine, it could worsen side effects like nervousness or insomnia, which might be exacerbated by Levera.

Foods:

• Levera does not have significant food interactions. However, it is always a good idea to maintain a balanced diet to support your overall health.
• Taking Levera with food can sometimes help minimize stomach upset, as some people might experience gastrointestinal discomfort when taking the medication on an empty stomach.

Synopsis

Drug	:	Levetiracetam
Pharmacological Category	:	Anticonvulsants
Therapeutic Indication	:	Epilepsy
Dosage Forms	:	Tablet, Injection, Infusion, Syrup, Suspension, Oral Suspension, Solution

More Information

A.How Levera helps control seizures, including its effectiveness for different types of epilepsy or seizures.

1.Effective Seizure Control: Levera has been shown to effectively control both focal and generalized seizures, making it a versatile treatment option for individuals with epilepsy.

2.Wide Range of Epilepsy Types: Levera is effective in managing various forms of epilepsy, including partial seizures, generalized tonic-clonic seizures, and myoclonic seizures. Its broad-spectrum efficacy makes it suitable for a variety of patient needs.

3.Rapid Onset of Action: Levera works quickly to help reduce seizure frequency and severity, offering patients a fast-acting solution for seizure management.

4.Minimal Drug Interactions: Levera has a relatively low potential for interactions with other medications, allowing patients to use it alongside other treatments without significant complications.

5.Convenient Dosing Options: Available in oral and injectable forms, Levera offers flexibility for patients in both outpatient and hospital settings.

6.Tolerability and Side Effects: Levera is generally well-tolerated, with a lower incidence of common side effects compared to other anticonvulsants, making it an attractive option for long-term use.

7.Suitable for Both Adults and Children: Levera is prescribed for both pediatric and adult patients, providing effective seizure control across age groups.

B.Product Comparison:

Medication	Active Ingredient	Class	Dosage Form	Common Uses	Onset of Action	Side Effects	Benefits Over Other Brands
Levera	Levetiracetam	Anticonvulsant	Tablets, Oral Solution	Epilepsy (focal & generalized seizures)	1 hour	Dizziness, somnolence, irritability, headache	Generally well tolerated, less sedative effect compared to some other anticonvulsants
Keppra	Levetiracetam	Anticonvulsant	Tablets, Oral Solution	Epilepsy (focal & generalized seizures)	1 hour	Dizziness, somnolence, irritability, headache	Same active ingredient as Levera but may have different excipients, so side effects can vary slightly
Epilim	Sodium valproate	Anticonvulsant	Tablets, Syrup	Epilepsy, Bipolar disorder	1-2 hours	Nausea, tremor, weight gain, liver toxicity risks	More versatile in treating both epilepsy and mood disorders; however, higher risk of liver toxicity
Lamictal	Lamotrigine	Anticonvulsant	Tablets	Epilepsy, Bipolar disorder	2 hours	Rash (potentially severe), dizziness, headache	Longer onset but lower risk of weight gain or sedation compared to Levera
Topamax	Topiramate	Anticonvulsant	Tablets, Capsule	Epilepsy, Migraines	1-2 hours	Weight loss, cognitive side effects, dizziness	Better for migraine prophylaxis but may cause cognitive impairment or weight changes

C. Lifestyle advice:

Category	Lifestyle Advice
Diet	- Maintain a balanced diet: Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
	- Consider a ketogenic diet: Some individuals with epilepsy benefit from a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet under medical supervision.
	- Avoid excessive alcohol: Alcohol can lower the threshold for seizures and interact with medications.
	- Stay hydrated: Dehydration can sometimes trigger seizures, so drinking enough water is important.
	- Limit caffeine: High caffeine intake may disrupt sleep, which can increase the risk of seizures.
Exercise	- Engage in regular physical activity: Exercise can improve overall health and help reduce stress, but ensure it's safe and within personal limits.
	- Opt for low-risk activities: Swimming, cycling, or exercises involving equipment may be dangerous if a seizure occurs; safer alternatives include walking, yoga, or light aerobics.
	- Include relaxation exercises: Practices like yoga, tai chi, or meditation can help reduce stress, which is known to trigger seizures in some people.
	- Listen to your body: If feeling fatigued or unwell, avoid intense physical activity as it can increase seizure risk.
Mental Health	- Manage stress: Chronic stress is a known trigger for seizures. Practicing stress management techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or therapy can be beneficial.
	- Get enough sleep: Poor sleep quality can increase seizure frequency, so aim for 7-9 hours of consistent, quality sleep.
	- Seek professional support: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or counseling can be helpful for managing emotional and psychological challenges.
	- Join support groups: Connecting with others who have epilepsy can provide emotional support, reduce isolation, and share coping strategies.
Safety	- Wear a medical alert bracelet: It informs others of your condition in case of an emergency.
	- Limit exposure to known triggers: Bright lights, specific patterns, or stressful situations may increase the likelihood of a seizure.
	- Create a safe living space: Ensure your environment is free from hazards, such as sharp objects or hard surfaces, in case of a seizure.

D.Support for Caregivers:

1.Medication Management Tips:

• How to set a consistent medication schedule: Tools like medication management apps, setting up daily reminders, or using pill organizers could help ensure Levera is taken on time.
• How to track side effects: A simple journal or app could allow caregivers to monitor any changes in behavior, mood, or side effects that might be linked to the medication.
• Understanding dosage and timing: Clear information about when and how to take Levera, what to do if a dose is missed, and how food or other medications might interact with it.

2.Epilepsy Education and Awareness:

• Understanding epilepsy: General information about epilepsy and what seizures look like could help caregivers feel more prepared.
• How to respond during a seizure: Basic first aid for seizures, what steps to take during a seizure, and when to call for medical help.
• Long-term management: Tips on how to support long-term epilepsy care, including regular check-ups and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to minimize triggers.

3.Emotional Support for Caregivers:

• Stress management techniques: Caregiving can be emotionally and physically demanding, so offering advice on mindfulness, relaxation exercises, or even local caregiver support groups can be beneficial.
• Balancing self-care with caregiving: Encouraging caregivers to take time for themselves and to reach out for help when needed to avoid burnout.
• Online communities and forums: Connecting with other caregivers who understand the challenges can provide a sense of solidarity.

4.Legal and Financial Guidance:

• Navigating insurance and prescriptions: Offering guidance on how to handle insurance claims for Levera or access financial assistance programs might help alleviate some of the burdens.
• Workplace accommodations: Information on how to talk to employers about caregiving responsibilities and possible accommodations for flexible work schedules.

FAQs About LEVERA 500MG TABLET

References

1. K.D. Tripathi. Antiepileptic Drugs. Essentials of Medical Pharmacology. Seventh Edition. 2013. Page – 420.

2. Bassel Abou-Khalil. Levetiracetam in the treatment of epilepsy. NIH National Library of Medicine, National Center for Biotechnology Information. PubMed Central. June 2008. [Accessed on 30th Jan 2025] 

3. Zentiva Pharma UK Limited. Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). [Revised in June 2023] [Accessed on 30th Jan 2025] 

 

Useful Diagnostic Tests

• Kidney Function test (KFT)
• Liver function test (LFT)

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