Keppra Levetiracetam 500 mg Tablet (Levetiracetam) — Uses, Dosage & NAFDAC

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

Levetiracetam is a medicine that helps control seizures (convulsions) by calming down overactive electrical signals in the brain, making fits less likely to happen.

What is it used for?

Epilepsyseizures (convulsions)fits — used alone or together with other seizure medicines to prevent and control different types of epileptic attacks

Browse by condition

Epilepsy & Seizures Nerve Pain

How it works

Binds to synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) in the central nervous system, modulating neurotransmitter release and reducing neuronal excitability to suppress seizure activity.

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

Quick Interaction Check

Is Levetiracetam safe to take with another drug?

Check with multiple drugs →

Explore this drug

How to take this drug

Adults usually start with 500 mg twice a day (morning and night). Your doctor may gradually increase this to up to 1500 mg twice a day depending on how well it controls your seizures. You can take it with or without food — just swallow the tablet whole with water. Available in Nigeria as Keppra 250 mg or 500 mg, Leveget 250 mg, or Suvitra-500.

What if I Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for it. Do not stop this medicine suddenly without your doctor's advice — stopping abruptly can trigger serious seizures.

What to watch out for

Never stop taking levetiracetam suddenly on your own — this can cause dangerous seizures; always let your doctor reduce the dose gradually. Buy only from licensed pharmacies — brands like Keppra, Leveget, or Suvitra-500 — and avoid unregistered sellers. This is a prescription medicine, so do not share it with others even if they also have seizures, as the dose must be individually prescribed.

Common Side Effects

Feeling sleepy or drowsy
headache
dizziness
feeling weak or tired
stuffy nose or mild infection

Serious Side Effects

Sudden mood changes
depression
or thoughts of harming yourself — see a doctor immediately. Severe skin rash or allergic reaction with swelling of the face
lips
or throat — go to the hospital right away. Unusual bruising or bleeding needs urgent medical attention.

Drug Interactions

Alcohol can make the drowsiness from levetiracetam much worse — avoid drinking alcohol while on this medicine. If you are taking other seizure medicines like carbamazepine or phenytoin, tell your doctor as doses may need adjusting. Methotrexate (used for some serious illnesses) may interact, so always inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking.

Check your specific combination

Is it safe to take Levetiracetam with your other drugs?

Check →

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Levetiracetam may pose risks during pregnancy and can pass into breast milk — do not start, stop, or change your dose without consulting your doctor, as uncontrolled seizures are also dangerous for mother and baby.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to levetiracetam or any of its ingredients. People with severe kidney problems should only use it under close doctor supervision with adjusted doses. Anyone with a history of depression or suicidal thoughts should inform their doctor before starting this medicine.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid storing near windows or in cars. Keep the container tightly closed to protect from humidity. Always keep out of reach of children.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.

Keppra Levetiracetam 500 mg