Question 1

what is the protocol for weaning off keppra (levetiracetam)?

Accepted Answer

Talk to neurologist: Assuming you are taking Keppra (levetiracetam) for seizures, you should only stop this medication with the support of your neurologist. He or she should be able to give you specific instructions.

Question 2

what is the protocol for weaning off keppra (levetiracetam) 500mg bid for someone who never had a  seizure, and was  put on it following  a head injury after a fall. ?

Accepted Answer

Situational: It depends on why exactly you were put on the medicine and how you have been tolerating therapy.  Each patient is different - some people may tolerate stopping Keppra (levetiracetam) cold turkey, others may need a dose of 250mg bid before complete cessation.

Question 3

need instructions on how to correctly wean off keppra (levetiracetam). have only been on it since 7/4/2014. 500mg in am, and 500mg in pm. having horrible side effects?

Accepted Answer

Reduction: I would reduce by 250mg every 3rd day till you get to zero

Question 4

how is keppra (levetiracetam) weaned down?

Accepted Answer

Keppra (levetiracetam) weaned down?: So you're taking keppra (levetiracetam) and you want to stop taking it. Have you discussed this with the doctor who is prescribing the keppra (levetiracetam)? Have you asked your doctor the post question? Please repost and state your doctor's answers to your questions; or, if you haven't asked your doctor, please state why not.

Question 5

what is the procedure for weaning off anti epileptic drugs, specifically keppra (levetiracetam)?

Accepted Answer

With Your Doctor: Weaning off of Keppra (levetiracetam) will depend on the dosage and length of time on the medication.  It would be tapered down, much the same as it is generally started.  Because of complications, it should only be done under your doctor's supervision.  It is not something to try on your own at home.

Question 6

my son is 13  & weaning off keppra, (levetiracetam) no new meds.  we are on second step down 1ml3xday. what withdrawal symptoms could he be having? he is not happy.

Accepted Answer

Several symptoms: Return of seizures, anxiety, depression, nervousness, irritability, sleepiness &amp; dizziness. I would speak to his neurologist about his symptoms if you have concerns.

Question 7

does keppra (levetiracetam) need to be weaned when taken off?

Accepted Answer

Should be: Too rapid withdrawal without tapering, could cause sudden seizure activity.  Avoid this by working closely with your doctor.

Question 8

how can i wean off keppra and convert to carbamazepine safely? i have been on keppra for 4months and am going to stop it due to its side-effect?

Accepted Answer

: Deal with this appropriately.  Let your doctor know about your adverse reactions and switch to a newer agent.  Carbamazepine is a poor choice and is far riskier than Keppra.   Rapid cessation of these drugs will result in seizures.  Do NOT drive!! No activities at heights, no power equipment!

Question 9

i had one seizure which is how we found out i had a benign meningioma.  been on keppra (levetiracetam) for 1 yr. what is recommended schedule to wean off?

Accepted Answer

Tough answer. : There are many factors for you and your neurologist to consider before discussing a medication taper. First, if the meningioma is still there, you'll continue to be at risk for seizures. If the meningioma was removed, repeat eeg's would also need to be performed to look at your potential risk for future seizures. After that, your neurologist may consider tapering you off.

Question 10

seizure free almost 3 years, monotherapy  keppra (levetiracetam) 1000mg tid. want to wean off meds to have kids. am i considered stable, is weaning an option?

Accepted Answer

Not so fast!: Prior to you tapering off meds, you will need an exam by neurologist, an updated EEG, and maybe some blood tests.  If all is normal, no guarantee of full success, but odds are with you.  Keppra (levetiracetam) seems safe during pregnancy, but not fully clear re fetal abnormalities.  However, a seizure could cause a miscarriage.  Discuss with your neurologist, pediatrician, and obstetrician.
Hope all works out.

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Doctor answers about:

Keppra weaning protocol

A member asked:

What is the protocol for weaning off keppra (levetiracetam)?

A member asked:

What is the protocol for weaning off keppra (levetiracetam) 500mg bid for someone who never had a seizure, and was put on it following a head injury after a fall. ?

A member asked:

Need instructions on how to correctly wean off keppra (levetiracetam). have only been on it since 7/4/2014. 500mg in am, and 500mg in pm. having horrible side effects?

A member asked:

How is keppra (levetiracetam) weaned down?

A member asked:

What is the procedure for weaning off anti epileptic drugs, specifically keppra (levetiracetam)?

A member asked:

My son is 13 & weaning off keppra, (levetiracetam) no new meds. we are on second step down 1ml3xday. what withdrawal symptoms could he be having? he is not happy.

A member asked:

Does keppra (levetiracetam) need to be weaned when taken off?

A member asked:

How can i wean off keppra and convert to carbamazepine safely? i have been on keppra for 4months and am going to stop it due to its side-effect?

A member asked:

I had one seizure which is how we found out i had a benign meningioma. been on keppra (levetiracetam) for 1 yr. what is recommended schedule to wean off?

A member asked:

Seizure free almost 3 years, monotherapy keppra (levetiracetam) 1000mg tid. want to wean off meds to have kids. am i considered stable, is weaning an option?

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