While the query mentions 'Leviticus Tablet,' there is no approved medication by that name. It is highly probable that this is a common misspelling or mishearing of Levetiracetam, a widely prescribed antiepileptic drug (AED) [1.3.7]. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Levetiracetam, its uses, mechanism, and important safety information.
What is Levetiracetam?
Levetiracetam is an anticonvulsant medication used alone or with other medicines to treat certain types of seizures in adults and children [1.7.5]. It belongs to a class of drugs known as SV2A inhibitors [1.3.3]. By working on the central nervous system, it helps to decrease abnormal excitement in the brain, thereby preventing seizure activity [1.4.3, 1.7.2]. It is available in various forms, including immediate-release tablets, extended-release tablets, an oral solution, and an intravenous injection [1.4.4]. Common brand names for Levetiracetam include Keppra®, Keppra XR®, Elepsia XR®, and Spritam® [1.3.4, 1.3.5].
Mechanism of Action: How Does It Work?
The precise way Levetiracetam works is not entirely understood, but its primary mechanism is unique among antiepileptic drugs [1.6.2]. It is believed to work by binding to a specific protein found on synaptic vesicles in the brain called synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A (SV2A) [1.6.2, 1.6.7]. This binding action is thought to modulate the release of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) from nerve endings, which helps to stabilize electrical activity in the brain and prevent the rapid, synchronized firing of neurons that leads to a seizure [1.6.3]. Unlike many other AEDs, it does not significantly interact with liver enzymes, which results in fewer drug-to-drug interactions [1.6.4, 1.5.8].
Approved Medical Uses
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Levetiracetam for several specific uses in treating epilepsy [1.7.4, 1.4.3]:
- Partial-Onset Seizures: It is used as an adjunctive therapy for partial-onset seizures in adults, children, and infants as young as one month old [1.7.5]. These seizures originate in one specific area of the brain.
- Myoclonic Seizures: It is approved as an add-on treatment for myoclonic seizures in adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older who have juvenile myoclonic epilepsy [1.4.4]. These are characterized by brief, shock-like jerks of a muscle or group of muscles.
- Primary Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizures: It is used in combination with other medications to treat these seizures (formerly known as 'grand mal' seizures) in adults and children 6 years of age and older with idiopathic generalized epilepsy [1.7.5].
Off-label, it may sometimes be used by healthcare professionals for conditions like status epilepticus (a prolonged seizure) and seizure prevention following a traumatic brain injury [1.4.6].
Potential Side Effects and Warnings
Like all medications, Levetiracetam can cause side effects. It is generally well-tolerated, but patients should be aware of potential reactions.
Common Side Effects Many of these are more prevalent when starting the medication and may decrease over time [1.5.1, 1.5.5]:
- Sleepiness, drowsiness, or fatigue
- Weakness (asthenia)
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Infection (e.g., stuffy or runny nose, sore throat)
- Irritability or aggression, particularly in children [1.5.7]
- Loss of appetite
Serious Warnings and Reactions Patients should contact their healthcare provider immediately if they experience any of the following [1.5.2, 1.5.7, 1.7.6]:
- Mood and Behavior Changes: A small number of people (about 1 in 500) may experience significant changes, including depression, anxiety, agitation, hostility, or suicidal thoughts or behaviors [1.7.5].
- Severe Skin Reactions: Though rare, life-threatening skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) can occur [1.5.8, 1.7.6]. Symptoms include rash, blisters, fever, and facial swelling.
- Allergic Reactions: Anaphylaxis and angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat) are possible and require immediate medical attention [1.5.7].
- Coordination Difficulties: Some individuals may experience trouble with walking, balance, or coordination [1.5.2].
- Sudden Withdrawal: Do not stop taking Levetiracetam abruptly, as this can cause an increase in seizure frequency or severity. A doctor must supervise a gradual dose reduction [1.7.1].
Levetiracetam vs. Other Antiepileptic Drugs
Levetiracetam's profile makes it a frequent choice for clinicians. Here is a brief comparison with another common AED, Carbamazepine.
Feature | Levetiracetam (Keppra®) | Carbamazepine (Tegretol®) |
---|---|---|
Primary Mechanism | Binds to synaptic vesicle protein SV2A, modulating neurotransmitter release [1.6.2]. | Blocks voltage-gated sodium channels, stabilizing hyperexcitable nerve membranes. |
Metabolism | Not extensively metabolized by the liver; primarily cleared by the kidneys [1.6.1, 1.6.4]. | Extensively metabolized by the liver's cytochrome P450 system. |
Drug Interactions | Low potential for drug-drug interactions [1.5.8]. | High potential for interactions with many other medications. |
Common Side Effects | Drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, behavioral changes (irritability) [1.5.5]. | Dizziness, drowsiness, unsteadiness, nausea, vomiting [1.8.2]. |
Monitoring | Serum level monitoring is not routinely required for efficacy [1.7.7]. | Regular blood tests are needed to monitor drug levels and check for blood disorders. |
Conclusion
Levetiracetam is a crucial and effective medication for managing various forms of epilepsy. Its unique mechanism of action and favorable pharmacokinetic profile, including a low risk of drug interactions, make it a valuable option for many patients [1.6.7]. While 'Leviticus Tablet' is not a recognized medication, the inquiry highlights the importance of clear communication and understanding of prescribed treatments. Anyone prescribed Levetiracetam should take it exactly as directed and maintain open communication with their healthcare provider about its effects and any side effects experienced.
For more information, you can visit the Epilepsy Foundation. [1.3.7]