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Proper Use
Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor, to help your condition as much as possible. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered.
Swallow the tablet or the extended-release tablet whole. Do not break, crush, or chew it. There is an oral solution form of this medicine if you cannot swallow the tablets.
Levetiracetam may be taken with or without food or on a full or empty stomach. However, if your doctor tells you to take the medicine a certain way, take it exactly as directed. You should try to take this medicine at the same time each day.
The oral solution is to be taken by mouth even if it comes in a dropper bottle. The amount you take should be measured with the special dropper provided with the bottle.
This medicine comes with a patient information leaflet. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Dosing
The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.
The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.
- For seizures:
- For oral dosage form (extended-release tablets):
- Adults—At first, 1000 milligrams (mg) once a day. Your doctor may adjust your dose if needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 3000 mg per day.
- Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
- For oral dosage form (solution or tablets):
- Adults—At first, 500 milligrams (mg) two times a day, one tablet in the morning and one at bedtime. Your doctor may adjust your dose if needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 3000 mg per day.
- Children 4 years of age and above—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. At first, the dose is usually 10 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) of body weight two times a day. Your doctor may adjust your dose if needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 60 mg/kg of body weight per day.
- Children below 4 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
- For oral dosage form (extended-release tablets):
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
Storage
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.
Keep out of the reach of children.
Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.
