Levetiracetam XR

Levetiracetam XR is a medication approved for the treatment of epilepsy in people ages 16 and older. Specifically, it is used to treat partial seizures (when used in combination with other seizure medications). Available by prescription, the medication comes in extended-release tablet form and is generally taken once a day. Potential side effects include the flu, irritability, and drowsiness.

What Is Levetiracetam XR?

Levetiracetam XR (Keppra XR™) is a prescription medication used to treat epilepsy. It is a long-acting seizure medication that is taken just once a day. It is approved to treat partial seizures in adults and adolescents 16 years old and older. Levetiracetam XR is approved only for use in combination with other seizure medications; it is not approved to be used alone.
 
(Click What Is Levetiracetam XR Used For? for more information on what the drug is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Potential Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with levetiracetam XR. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Common side effects of levetiracetam XR include, but are not limited to:
 
  • Drowsiness
  • The flu
  • Irritability.
     
(Click Side Effects of Levetiracetam XR to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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