Levetiracetam — NZ Medication Guide
📋 Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ — This information is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
What is Levetiracetam?
Levetiracetam is a broad-spectrum anticonvulsant used for focal and generalised epilepsy. This medication is funded by Pharmac for epilepsy.
What is Levetiracetam Used For?
Used as adjunct or monotherapy for focal onset seizures, myoclonic seizures in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, and generalised tonic-clonic seizures.
How Does Levetiracetam Work?
Binds to the synaptic vesicle protein SV2A, modulating neurotransmitter release and inhibiting synchronised neuronal burst firing across a broad range of seizure types.
How to Take Levetiracetam
Taken twice daily with or without food. Start 250–500 mg twice daily, titrate to max 1500 mg twice daily. Dose reduction required in renal impairment.
Common Side Effects of Levetiracetam
- Behavioural changes — irritability, agitation, aggression, depression (important — report promptly)
- Drowsiness and fatigue
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nasopharyngitis
Serious Side Effects — Seek Medical Attention
Contact your doctor or call 111 immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Serious psychiatric and behavioural effects (suicidal ideation, psychosis — rare)
- Serious skin reactions (rare)
- Haematological effects — anaemia, neutropenia (rare)
Drug Interactions
Levetiracetam may interact with other medicines. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist of all medications you are taking. Key interactions include:
- Very few clinically significant interactions — a major advantage over other anticonvulsants
- May enhance sedative effects of CNS depressants
New Zealand Prescribing Information
Levetiracetam (500 mg, 1000 mg tablets; 100 mg/mL oral solution — Keppra® and generics) is funded by Pharmac. Increasingly used as first-line due to broad-spectrum activity, lack of enzyme induction, and minimal interactions. Behavioural/psychiatric side effects must be monitored.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can levetiracetam affect my mood?
Yes — irritability, mood swings, and rarely aggression or psychosis can occur at any dose. Report significant mood or behaviour changes to your neurologist promptly, as dose reduction or a medicine change may be needed.
Does levetiracetam interact with other medicines?
Unlike most anticonvulsants, levetiracetam has very few drug interactions and does not affect liver enzyme activity, making it very convenient for patients on multiple medications.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or a qualified health provider. In New Zealand, medication availability and funding may vary — check with Pharmac or your pharmacist for current information.
Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ
References & Further Information
The following New Zealand and international resources were used to inform this page: