Levetam XR 500 mg – 30 Extended-Release Tablets

Levetam XR 500 mg – 30 Extended-Release Tablets

Levetam XR 500 mg – 30 Tablets is a prescription antiepileptic medicine containing levetiracetam 500 mg, used to help control certain types of epileptic seizures under medical supervision.

Levetiracetam is an antiseizure medication that acts on processes involved in nerve-cell communication in the brain, helping reduce abnormal electrical activity associated with seizures.

The extended-release formulation is designed to release the active ingredient gradually over an extended period, potentially allowing a once-daily dosing schedule when prescribed appropriately.

Levetam may be used as part of an individualized epilepsy treatment plan. The specific indication, whether it is used alone or with other antiseizure medicines, and the appropriate age group depend on the locally approved product information.

Regular treatment is important for maintaining seizure control. Missing doses, changing the prescribed schedule or suddenly discontinuing the medicine may increase the risk of seizures.

The dosage must be individualized according to the patient's clinical condition, response to treatment and kidney function.

Important: Levetam XR is not intended to stop an active seizure immediately. Extended-release tablets must be swallowed whole and must not be crushed, chewed or split.

Each pack contains 30 extended-release tablets.

Active Ingredient & Formulation Properties

Levetiracetam – 500 mg

Levetiracetam is an antiepileptic medication used to control certain seizure types.

Key properties:

• Helps reduce the frequency of certain epileptic seizures.
• Binds to synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A).
• Modulates processes involved in neurotransmitter release.
• Helps regulate abnormal neuronal activity associated with seizures.
• Can be incorporated into an individualized long-term treatment plan.
• Requires dose adjustment in some patients with impaired kidney function.

Extended-Release Formulation

The extended-release formulation allows gradual release of levetiracetam.

Key features:

• Provides extended drug release.
• May support once-daily administration when prescribed.
• Can simplify the dosing schedule for suitable patients.
• Requires tablets to be swallowed intact.
• Must not be substituted directly with immediate-release tablets without medical guidance.

Product verification: The active ingredient and extended-release formulation should be confirmed against the packaging and approved Saudi product leaflet for this specific brand.

Uses & Benefits

• Focal-Onset Seizure Control: Used for certain focal-onset seizures according to the approved indication.
• Reduced Seizure Frequency: May help decrease seizure recurrence in patients who respond to treatment.
• Antiepileptic Therapy: Supports ongoing management of epilepsy.
• Neuronal Activity Regulation: Modulates mechanisms involved in seizure activity.
• Extended Drug Release: Delivers the active ingredient gradually.
• Convenient Dosing: May allow once-daily dosing when prescribed.
• Individualized Treatment: Dosage can be adjusted according to clinical response.
• Combination Treatment: May be used with other antiseizure medicines when indicated.
• Long-Term Seizure Management: Can support sustained seizure control.
• Treatment Monitoring: Allows ongoing assessment of effectiveness and tolerability.
• Kidney Function-Based Dosing: Can be adjusted for renal impairment.
• 30-Tablet Pack: Provides a quantity suitable for a treatment duration determined by the prescribed dosage.

Mechanism of Action

Levetiracetam binds to synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A), a protein associated with neurotransmitter-containing vesicles in nerve cells.

This interaction is believed to modify neurotransmitter release and contribute to the reduction of abnormal neuronal activity associated with epileptic seizures.

Its mechanism differs from that of several conventional antiseizure medications.

The extended-release formulation provides gradual drug release but does not cure the underlying cause of epilepsy or eliminate the need for consistent treatment.

Suitable For

• Patients diagnosed with seizure types covered by the approved indication.
• Patients specifically prescribed extended-release levetiracetam.
• Individuals requiring ongoing antiseizure treatment.
• Certain patients receiving combination antiepileptic therapy.
• Patients for whom an extended-release dosing schedule is appropriate.
• Adults and any additional age groups authorized by the local product labeling.

This medication is not appropriate for every seizure type or age group. Use must follow a clinician's diagnosis and prescription.

Directions for Use

1. Take Levetam XR exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
2. Extended-release levetiracetam is generally administered once daily when consistent with the prescription and product leaflet.
3. Swallow the tablet whole with water.
4. Do not crush, chew or split the tablet.
5. Follow the product instructions regarding administration with or without food.
6. Take the medication at a consistent time each day.
7. Do not change the dose without medical advice.
8. Never stop treatment suddenly.
9. If a dose is missed, follow the product leaflet or consult your pharmacist. Do not double the next dose.
10. Inform your healthcare provider about other medicines, especially those that cause drowsiness.
11. Kidney function monitoring and dosage adjustment may be necessary.

Important: Levetam XR is a maintenance antiseizure medicine, not an emergency rescue treatment for an ongoing seizure.

Expected Results

During Initial Treatment

• Levetiracetam begins reaching therapeutic concentrations with regular dosing.
• Drowsiness, dizziness or fatigue may occur.
• The doctor may assess tolerability and clinical response.
• Immediate seizure elimination cannot be guaranteed.

With Regular Use

• Seizure frequency may decrease in patients who respond.
• Seizure control may improve with consistent treatment.
• Dosage adjustments may be required.
• Mood and behavioral changes should be monitored.

Long-Term Results

Consistent treatment may help maintain seizure control and reduce seizure recurrence.

However, treatment response varies, and a seizure-free period does not mean the medication can be stopped without medical supervision.

Possible Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness.
• Dizziness.
• Fatigue.
• Headache.
• Weakness.
• Irritability.
• Mood or behavioral changes.
• Coordination or balance difficulties in some patients.

Serious Side Effects

• Severe depression or marked behavioral changes.
• Suicidal thoughts or self-harm thoughts.
• Unusual aggression or severe agitation.
• Severe skin rash or skin peeling.
• Facial or tongue swelling.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Severe confusion or altered consciousness.
• Worsening seizures or new seizure patterns.

Seek urgent medical assistance for breathing difficulties, severe allergic reactions, serious skin reactions or immediate risk of self-harm.

Warnings & Precautions

• Prescription medicine only.
• Do not discontinue suddenly because seizures may worsen.
• Do not change the prescribed dosage independently.
• Dose adjustment may be required in renal impairment.
• The medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness.
• Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Monitor for mood or behavioral changes.
• Report suicidal thoughts or severe psychiatric symptoms immediately.
• Tell your doctor about any history of depression or psychiatric illness.
• Swallow extended-release tablets whole.
• Do not interchange extended-release and immediate-release formulations without medical guidance.
• Inform your doctor about all medicines and supplements.
• Avoid alcohol because it may increase drowsiness and dizziness.
• Discuss pregnancy planning or pregnancy promptly with your neurologist.
• Medication requirements may change during and after pregnancy.
• Seek medical advice regarding breastfeeding.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store according to the conditions specified on the packaging.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Levetam XR 500 mg used for?

It is used to control certain epileptic seizures, particularly focal-onset seizures, according to the approved indication and medical prescription.

What is the active ingredient?

The active ingredient is levetiracetam 500 mg, subject to confirmation from the product packaging.

What does XR mean?

XR means extended release, indicating gradual release of the active ingredient over time.

Is Levetam XR taken once daily?

Extended-release levetiracetam is commonly taken once daily, but the prescribed schedule and local product leaflet must be followed.

Can I split the tablet?

No. Extended-release tablets must be swallowed whole without splitting, crushing or chewing.

Does Levetam cause drowsiness?

Yes. Drowsiness and dizziness are possible, particularly when starting treatment or adjusting the dose.

Can I stop taking it after becoming seizure-free?

No. Stopping suddenly can increase seizure risk. Any discontinuation must be supervised by a doctor.

Can Levetam affect mood?

Yes. Irritability, aggression, depression or other behavioral changes can occur. Serious changes require prompt medical assessment.

Do patients with kidney disease need a different dose?

They may require dose adjustments based on kidney function and medical assessment.

Can Levetam be used during pregnancy?

Levetiracetam may be continued during pregnancy when clinically appropriate. Treatment should be reviewed by a neurologist, and it must not be stopped suddenly.

Product Details

• Product Name: Levetam XR 500 mg
• Active Ingredient: Levetiracetam
• Strength: 500 mg
• Dosage Form: Extended-Release Tablets
• Pack Size: 30 Tablets
• Drug Class: Antiepileptic / Antiseizure Medication
• Primary Use: Management of Certain Epileptic Seizures
• Route of Administration: Oral
• Dosing Frequency: As Prescribed
• Important Instruction: Swallow Whole; Do Not Crush, Chew or Split
• Important Warning: Do Not Discontinue Abruptly
• Prescription Status: Prescription Only
• Category: Medicines – Nervous System – Antiepileptics