Understanding Keppra: A Comprehensive Guide to the Antiepileptic Medicine
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by seizures that result from abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Antiepileptic medications are a crucial component of epilepsy treatment. One such drug is Keppra, which is used to treat different types of seizures. This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding Keppra, including its uses, side effects, dosages, and more.
What is Keppra?
Keppra is an antiepileptic medicine that is used to control partial-onset seizures, myoclonic seizures, and generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Please note that this medication is not intended for the treatment of absence seizures.
How Does Keppra Work?
Keppra works by binding to a protein in the brain that is involved in the abnormal firing of neurons, thus reducing seizures’ likelihood.
What are the Benefits of Taking Keppra?
Keppra was designed to help people with epilepsy manage seizures and improve their quality of life. Some of the key benefits of taking Keppra include:
– Effective Control of Seizures: Keppra has been shown to control seizures in many patients, reducing the frequency of seizures or stopping them altogether.
– Low Risk of Side Effects: Keppra is generally considered safe, with side effects reported in less than 10% of patients.
– Body Weight has Numerous Uses: Keppra is widely used to treat seizures in children.
How is Keppra Dosed?
The dosing of Keppra is individualized, and your doctor will determine the best dose based on your condition. It is generally started at a low dose and increased over a few weeks to weeks until the target dose is achieved. The usual dosing of Keppra is twice daily, but your doctor may adjust your dosing schedule based on your specific needs.
What are the Side-Effects of Keppra?
Keppra is generally safe, but some people may experience side effects when taking it. Some of the most common side effects of Keppra include:
– Dizziness
– Tiredness
– Headache
– Agitation
– Nausea and Vomiting
– Behavior and Mood Changes such as irritability, aggression, and depression.
If you’re taking the medication and are concerned about side effects like these, talk to your doctor to discuss your options.
Who Should Avoid Taking Keppra?
Keppra should be avoided by people who:
– Are allergic to any of Keppra’s components
– Have kidney disease
– Are taking certain medications for seizures
In Conclusion
There you have it, a comprehensive guide to understanding Keppra. Keppra is a valuable medication for epilepsy treatment that can help manage seizures and improve quality of life. While like all drugs, Keppra has some side effects; for most people, this medication is safe and well-tolerated. If you’re considering taking Keppra or any other antiepileptic medication, be sure to discuss your options with your doctor to determine if it’s the right choice for you.
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