Levetiracetam

Levetiracetam works by binding to a synaptic vesicle protein (SV2A), which is believed to inhibit nerve impulses that cause seizures. It is popular in pediatrics due to its low drug-interaction profile.

Dosage by Body Weight

Standard pediatric starting dose is 10 mg/kg twice daily, titrated up to 30 mg/kg twice daily as needed under neurology supervision.

Body Weight
5-10 kg
Dose
50 mg to 100 mg
Frequency
Twice daily
Tracking Notes
Oral solution is preferred for precise measurement.
Body Weight
11-20 kg
Dose
110 mg to 200 mg
Frequency
Twice daily
Tracking Notes
Monitor for behavioral changes or irritability.
Body Weight
21-40 kg
Dose
250 mg to 500 mg
Frequency
Twice daily
Tracking Notes
May be switched to tablet form if the child can swallow them.

Weight-based dosage tracking table for Levetiracetam, including body weight, dose, frequency, and tracking notes.
Body Weight	Dose	Frequency	Tracking Notes
5-10 kg	50 mg to 100 mg	Twice daily	Oral solution is preferred for precise measurement.
11-20 kg	110 mg to 200 mg	Twice daily	Monitor for behavioral changes or irritability.
21-40 kg	250 mg to 500 mg	Twice daily	May be switched to tablet form if the child can swallow them.

Formulation

Oral SolutionTabletInjection

Purpose

Antiepileptic medication used to treat partial-onset, myoclonic, or tonic-clonic seizures.

Generic Name

Levetiracetam

Branded Drug Names

Levetiracetam is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:

Scheduled Drug

Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.

Alternatives

Valproate Lamotrigine Phenytoin

Safety Advice

Alcohol

UNSAFE

Levetiracetam: Alcohol can significantly increase drowsiness, dizziness, breathing problems, or seizure risk. Avoid alcohol unless a specialist says otherwise.

Pregnancy

CAUTION

Levetiracetam: Use in pregnancy only under specialist advice because seizure control and fetal risks must be carefully balanced.

Breast Feeding

SAFE IF PRESCRIBED

Levetiracetam: May pass into breast milk and can cause infant drowsiness or feeding issues. Use only with healthcare provider guidance.

Driving

CAUTION

Levetiracetam: Can cause drowsiness, slowed reaction time, dizziness, or blurred vision. Avoid driving until you know how it affects you.

Liver

CAUTION

Levetiracetam: Some anti-seizure medicines can affect liver function and may require blood tests or dose adjustments.

Kidney

CAUTION

Levetiracetam: Some anti-seizure medicines require dose adjustment in kidney impairment. Use under medical supervision.