What Is Keppra?
Keppra, known by its generic name levetiracetam, is an anticonvulsant medication primarily used to treat epilepsy. This medication helps to manage seizures by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain, offering significant relief to those struggling with seizure disorders. It’s a commonly prescribed medication for patients with partial seizures, generalized seizures, and seizures related to epilepsy.
Keppra is widely prescribed because of its effectiveness and relatively low risk of side effects compared to other seizure medications. It can be used in both adults and children, making it a versatile option for many.
How Does Keppra Work?
Keppra works by affecting the way your brain’s neurons communicate. It works on the synaptic vesicle protein, which is involved in transmitting nerve signals. By modifying the flow of information in the brain, Keppra helps prevent the onset of seizures, stabilizing the abnormal electrical activity that occurs in epileptic seizures.
The precise mechanism of how Keppra works isn’t completely understood, but it’s believed to block the release of excitatory neurotransmitters, which are involved in triggering seizures. This makes it highly effective in controlling seizures without having as many side effects as other similar drugs.
Benefits of Using Keppra
- Reduces the frequency and severity of seizures
- Suitable for both adults and children
- Non-sedating, meaning it doesn’t cause excessive drowsiness or grogginess
- Can be used alongside other anti-seizure medications if necessary
- Available in both oral and injectable forms
- Relatively low risk of serious side effects when monitored properly
Dosage of Keppra
Keppra comes in various forms, including tablets, oral solution, and injection. The correct dosage will depend on several factors, including age, weight, and the severity of the condition being treated. It is critical to follow your healthcare provider’s dosage instructions for optimal results.
- Adults (over 16 years): Keppra is usually started at a low dose and gradually increased based on response and tolerance. The typical starting dose is around 500 mg per day, which may be increased up to 1,500 mg per day, depending on the severity of seizures.
- Children (under 16 years): Dosage for children is typically determined by weight. It’s crucial to adjust the dose based on the child’s response to treatment and side effects.
Be sure to take Keppra exactly as prescribed to avoid the risk of breakthrough seizures or unwanted side effects.
How to Use Keppra
Taking Keppra correctly is essential to achieving the best possible results. Below are the key guidelines for proper administration:
Proper Administration
- Take Keppra with or without food, as it does not significantly affect absorption.
- If you are taking the oral solution, use the proper measuring device to ensure the right dose.
- Swallow tablets whole with a glass of water—do not chew or crush them.
- Keep your dosing schedule consistent. Try to take your medication at the same time every day to help you remember.
Lifestyle Considerations
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose—never take two doses at once.
- Avoid alcohol while using Keppra, as it may increase the risk of side effects like dizziness or drowsiness.
- Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as Keppra may have risks during pregnancy. Always weigh the potential benefits against any possible risks.
- Be cautious when driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how Keppra affects you, as it can cause dizziness or drowsiness.
Side Effects
While Keppra is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects. These side effects can vary in severity, and it’s important to monitor any changes in your health while using the medication.
Common Side Effects
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Irritability or mood changes
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
If any of these side effects persist or worsen, be sure to talk to your doctor. They can help you adjust the dosage or switch medications if necessary.
Serious Side Effects
- Severe allergic reactions, such as swelling of the face or throat
- Unusual thoughts or behaviors, including depression or suicidal thoughts
- Seizures that are not controlled by the medication
- Changes in coordination or balance
- Muscle weakness or loss of strength
If you experience any serious side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Early intervention is essential for managing these reactions effectively.
Warnings and Precautions
Before taking Keppra, inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of kidney disease, liver disease, or any mental health conditions, as these factors may influence how your body responds to the medication.
Keppra should be used with caution in individuals who have previously experienced mood changes, aggression, or depression. If you or your loved ones notice unusual changes in behavior or mood, inform your doctor right away.
It is also important to avoid suddenly stopping Keppra without consulting your healthcare provider. Abrupt discontinuation of the medication can result in an increase in seizure frequency and severity.
Where to Buy Keppra
You can buy Keppra online through Honeybee Pharmacy, a trusted pharmacy partner that offers reliable and convenient access to medications. Honeybee Pharmacy ensures that your medication is sourced from reputable suppliers, and the shipping process is handled securely and promptly.
Honeybee Pharmacy offers excellent customer support, ensuring that you can get the help you need when purchasing Keppra. With a focus on making medications accessible and affordable, Honeybee Pharmacy also provides helpful resources to guide you through your treatment process.
Ordering from Honeybee Pharmacy guarantees that you are purchasing authentic medications, and you can rely on their efficient delivery service to receive your medication in a timely manner.
Contact Information
For any questions related to your medication order or to receive support, you can reach Honeybee Pharmacy’s customer service team by calling or texting 1-888-483-1267 (Toll-Free). Alternatively, you can fax them at 1-888-338-6690. Their support hours are Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM CST and weekends from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM CST.
For faster assistance, it’s best to contact the customer service team during business hours. If you have any concerns about tracking your order, they are available to provide updates and address any shipping inquiries.
International medication orders, including those from Canada, generally arrive within 10-14 business days. For medications sourced from other countries, delivery may take up to 15-20 business days. If you need help with tracking or receiving your order, don’t hesitate to reach out to the customer service team for assistance.