Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

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

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

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

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

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 5

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

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

Question 6

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

Accepted Answer

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

Question 7

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

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 8

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

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.

Question 9

On keppra (levetiracetam) for 8 months now- 8 mg 2x day. due to a fall, had 3 grand mal seizures 4-5 months after fall. can i wean off keppra (levetiracetam)? experiment getting off?

Accepted Answer

Do you wish more seizures?  Do not stop, do not experiment, do not drive, do not do activities at heights, do not use power equipment.  Do see your neurologist and make sure your dosing is appropriate for your problem, as i doubt your Keppra (levetiracetam) amounts are correct if you indeed are taking 8 mg twice daily.

Question 10

What is the appropriate protocol to wean off alzam?

Accepted Answer

The proper method of weaning off a medication that has been taken over a prolonged period is a slow taper guided by your prescribing physician who is familiar with your diagnosis, your current status and condition. The goal is to avoid withdrawal symptoms or rebound of original issues.

What is the protocol for weaning off keppra