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Keppra (levetiracetam) is a widely prescribed medication to help manage seizures associated with epilepsy. It works by stabilising electrical activity in the brain to reduce the likelihood of seizures. While Keppra is a useful medication, it can cause several side effects, including muscle weakness. This is often a result of low red blood cell count (anaemia), which can lead to fatigue, weakness, and a decreased ability to carry oxygen throughout the body. Other side effects of Keppra include sleepiness, dizziness, and changes in mood or behaviour. It is important to consult a doctor if you experience any unusual side effects while taking Keppra.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Muscle Weakness | Yes, Keppra can cause muscle weakness. |
| Fatigue | Yes, fatigue is a common side effect. |
| Dizziness | Yes, dizziness is a common side effect. |
| Sleepiness | Yes, sleepiness is a common side effect, especially when starting treatment. |
| Mood and Behavioral Changes | Yes, Keppra can cause changes in mood and behavior, including aggression, agitation, anger, anxiety, apathy, depression, emotional lability, hostility, irritability, nervousness, neurosis, and personality disorder. |
| Suicidal Thoughts and Actions | Yes, there is an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior. |
| Allergic Reactions | Yes, Keppra can cause allergic reactions, including a rare but severe reaction called Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS). |
| Serious Skin Reactions | Yes, Keppra can cause severe skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). |
| Blood Disorders | Yes, Keppra can cause blood disorders, including low white blood cell levels (leukopenia), low red blood cell levels (anemia), low platelet count (thrombocytopenia), and high eosinophil levels (eosinophilia). |
| Liver and Kidney Function | Yes, Keppra may affect liver and kidney function. |
| Balance and Coordination | Yes, Keppra can cause problems with balance and coordination. |
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What You'll Learn
Dizziness, drowsiness, and fatigue
Dizziness and drowsiness are known side effects of Keppra, which can impair alertness, coordination, and the ability to perform activities that require a high level of concentration, such as driving or operating machinery. It is advised that individuals do not engage in these activities until they know how the medication affects them.
Fatigue associated with Keppra use may be related to the drug's impact on blood cell counts. Low red blood cell counts (anaemia) can lead to fatigue, as it reduces the body's ability to carry oxygen. Additionally, low white blood cell counts (leukopenia) can make it harder for the body to fight infections, potentially contributing to fatigue if left untreated.
To manage fatigue and drowsiness while taking Keppra, individuals are advised to rest and stay hydrated. If these side effects persist or become severe, it is important to consult a doctor, as they may recommend adjusting the dosage or exploring alternative treatments.
It is worth noting that while these side effects are common, they typically improve with time and are not indicative of long-term issues. However, it is always advisable to discuss any concerns with a healthcare professional and report any unusual or persistent symptoms.
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Skin reactions
Keppra (levetiracetam) is a prescription medication used to manage seizures in people with epilepsy. While it is generally well-tolerated, it can cause various side effects, including skin reactions.
Keppra has been associated with severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). SJS is a rare but severe allergic reaction that can cause a painful rash, blisters, and peeling of the skin. In severe cases, it can affect internal organs and become life-threatening if left untreated. Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) is another severe skin reaction characterized by painful, red or purple skin that peels off and can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
Additionally, there is a rare but serious risk of developing Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), also known as multiorgan hypersensitivity. DRESS may present initially as a rash but can progress to affect multiple organs, including the liver, kidneys, and heart. This reaction can be life-threatening, and immediate medical attention is crucial.
Other skin-related side effects of Keppra may include a flat red rash or blisters on the skin, mouth, nose, and genitals. These reactions typically occur within the first few weeks of starting the medication but can also happen later. If you experience any skin reactions, such as a rash, blisters, or peeling skin, discontinue the medication and seek medical advice immediately.
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Blood disorders
Keppra (levetiracetam) is a medication used to treat seizures. It can cause various side effects, and it is important to consult a doctor regularly while taking this medication, especially during the first few months. Some side effects may require immediate medical attention, such as serious skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. It is also important to inform your doctor if you become pregnant while taking Keppra.
Levetiracetam can cause blood disorders by affecting the levels of certain blood cells. These disorders include:
- Low white blood cell levels (leukopenia), which can increase the risk of infections.
- Low neutrophil levels (neutropenia), a type of white blood cell that fights infections.
- Low red blood cell levels (anemia), which can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
- High eosinophil levels (eosinophilia), which can be associated with allergic reactions.
If you experience any of the following symptoms that may indicate blood disorders, stop taking levetiracetam and seek immediate medical help:
- Fever.
- Shortness of breath.
- Pale or yellowish skin.
- Easy bruising or bleeding.
- Frequent infections.
- Unusual weakness or tiredness.
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or feeling faint.
- Fast or abnormal heartbeat.
It is important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and the occurrence of side effects may vary from person to person. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to report any side effects that you may experience while taking Keppra.
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Suicidal thoughts
Keppra is the brand name for levetiracetam, a medication used to treat certain types of seizures. It is not recommended for people with a history of depression, mental health issues, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Keppra may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviour. In clinical trials, changes in mood, thoughts, or behaviour were commonly reported with Keppra and these side effects were reported more frequently in children than in adults. One study found that one in every 530 Keppra users reported suicidal thoughts. Other studies have found that the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviour is higher in patients with prior psychiatric disorders, a history of traumatic brain injury, substance use disorder, or a structural brain abnormality.
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviour while taking Keppra, it is important to seek help. Talk to your doctor immediately, as they may recommend switching to a different medication. Do not stop taking Keppra suddenly unless advised by your doctor, as this can cause seizures that won't stop or make them worse.
If you or someone you know is in crisis and considering suicide or self-harm, please seek support:
- Call or text the 988 Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
- Text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 to connect with a volunteer crisis counsellor.
It is important to be aware of the potential side effects of Keppra and to monitor for any changes in mood, thoughts, or behaviour while taking this medication.
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Mood and behavioural changes
Keppra (levetiracetam) is an antiseizure (antiepileptic) drug that can cause mood and behavioural changes. These changes can develop at any time during Keppra treatment and were reported more commonly in children than in adults taking the drug.
Some of the mood changes associated with Keppra include:
- Aggression
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Nervousness
- Lack of interest
- Anger
- Tearfulness
- Apathy
Behavioural changes caused by Keppra include:
- Agitation
- Psychotic-like behaviours
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Disorganized thoughts
- Decline in self-care
- Suicidal thoughts and actions
If you experience any unusual changes in your mood, feelings, thoughts, or behaviour while taking Keppra, it is important to talk to your doctor right away. They may recommend switching to a different medication for your seizures. It is important not to suddenly stop taking Keppra unless your doctor advises you to do so.
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Frequently asked questions
Keppra (levetiracetam) is a brand-name drug that’s prescribed for certain types of seizures in adults and some children.
Keppra may cause muscle weakness, but this is usually experienced as general weakness or tiredness. In some cases, it can lead to a loss of coordination.
Other common side effects include sleepiness, dizziness, mood and behavioural changes, and skin reactions.
If you experience muscle weakness or other side effects, you should consult your doctor. They may adjust your dosage or recommend other treatment options.
