Posted by susan C on July 30, 2001, at 11:31:59
In reply to Re: Levetiracetam (Keppra) Journal » susan C, posted by SalArmy4me on July 29, 2001, at 23:33:07
Thanks, you are so responsive. what is asthenia? Right now, an hour and a half after 4th dose, I am dizzy. I am going to lie down. I generally feel Ok, and know I will have to wait for a month before I know if it works or not, unless, it has really terrible side effects. > Keppra:
> Linezolid, Alosetron, Levetiracetam. American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy. 57(16):1480-1484, August 15, 2000:
>
> "Nervous System Effects: Neuropsychiatric adverse effects reported during levetiracetam treatment are classified into 3 categories: somnolence and fatigue; coordination difficulties; and behavioral changes. Somnolence, asthenia, and coordination difficulties occurred most frequently within the first 4 weeks of treatment. Psychotic symptoms and hallucinations were reported rarely in patients receiving levetiracetam in clinical studies. Other behavioral symptoms (e.g., agitation, hostility, anxiety, apathy, emotional lability, depersonalization, depression) also may occur.
>
> Hematologic Effects: Minor decreases in total mean erythrocyte count, mean hemoglobin, and mean hematocrit. Decreases in leukocyte and neutrophil counts also observed.
>
> Hepatic Effects: No meaningful changes in mean liver function test results in controlled studies.
>
> Common Adverse Effects ( >=1% and more frequently than placebo)
> Somnolence, asthenia, headache, infection, dizziness, pain, pharyngitis, depression, nervousness, rhinitis, anorexia, ataxia, vertigo, amnesia, anxiety, emotional lability, hostility, paresthesia, increased cough, sinusitis, and diplopia were reported in clinical studies in which levetiracetam was administered in conjunction with other anticonvulants.
>
> Advice to Patients
> Risk of neuropsychiatric adverse effects (e.g., somnolence, fatigue, dizziness, coordination difficulties, behavioral changes) that may occur, especially during the initial weeks of therapy. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or performing hazardous tasks while taking levetiracetam until gain experience with the drug's effects. Importance of not discontinuing levetiracetam abruptly and taking the drug only as prescribed. Levetiracetam is used in combination with other anticonvulsants, not as monotherapy. Importance of women informing clinicians if they are or plan to become pregnant or breastfeed..."
poster:susan C
thread:72416
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010725/msgs/72513.html