Levetiracetam

Levetiracetam is an ethyl analogue of the nootropic agent piracetam. Results from rodent studies indicate that the drug may offer protection against absence, generalised and partial seizures. Levetiracetam exhibits linear pharmacokinetics and has a wide therapeutic index. Its potential to interact with other anticonvulsants appears to be low. Initial findings from a total of 29 patients with treatment-refractory epilepsy suggest that levetiracetam may be beneficial in patients with partial seizures. These results require confirmation. Somnolence and asthenia were the most common adverse events reported in patients receiving levetiracetam 1000 to 4000 mg/day; these appeared to be dose-related.