Levetiracetam

Anti-epileptic
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Levetiracetam is a anti-epileptic found in 17 medicines sold in India, such as Levipil 500, Levera 500, Keppra 500. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Prevents seizures (fits) in epilepsy.

How it works

A widely used anti-epileptic medicine for many kinds of seizures, with few interactions.

How to take it

Usually twice a day at the same times, with or without food. Never stop suddenly (seizures can return).

Common side effects

  • Drowsiness
  • Tiredness
  • Dizziness
  • Irritability
  • Mood changes

Get medical help straight away if

  • Depression, aggression or suicidal thoughts
  • Severe rash

Be careful

Do not stop suddenly. Can cause drowsiness or mood changes.

Other medicines and interactions

Very few medicine interactions. Alcohol adds to drowsiness.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

One of the preferred anti-epileptics in pregnancy; plan with your neurologist and take folic acid. Considered acceptable while breastfeeding.

Brands of Levetiracetam (17)

Common questions

What is Levetiracetam used for?

Prevents seizures (fits) in epilepsy.

How does Levetiracetam work?

A widely used anti-epileptic medicine for many kinds of seizures, with few interactions.

How should I take Levetiracetam?

Usually twice a day at the same times, with or without food. Never stop suddenly (seizures can return).

What are the side effects of Levetiracetam?

Common: Drowsiness, tiredness, dizziness, irritability, mood changes. Get help straight away for: Depression, aggression or suicidal thoughts, severe rash.

Does Levetiracetam interact with other medicines?

Very few medicine interactions. Alcohol adds to drowsiness.

Is Levetiracetam safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

One of the preferred anti-epileptics in pregnancy; plan with your neurologist and take folic acid. Considered acceptable while breastfeeding.

Does Levetiracetam need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Levetiracetam?

Epifast 500, Epilive 500, Keppra 500, Levacetam 500, Levenue 500, Levepsy 500, Levera 250, Levera 500, Levesam 500, Levigress-500, Levilex 500, Levipil 1000, Levipil 250, Levipil 500, Levipil 750, Levroxa 500, Torleva 500.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.