Levera XR 1000

Levera XR 1000 is an extended-release formulation of Levetiracetam, a widely used anti-epileptic drug (AED) or anticonvulsant. The “XR” signifies its sustained-release property, designed to deliver the medication slowly over 24 hours, often allowing for once-daily dosing, which can improve patient adherence to treatment.

What it is and How it Works:

Levetiracetam, the active ingredient in Levera XR 1000, is chemically distinct from other commonly used AEDs. Its precise mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it’s believed to exert its anti-seizure effects by binding to a synaptic vesicle glycoprotein called SV2A in the brain. This binding is thought to modulate neurotransmitter release, specifically inhibiting abnormal neuronal activity and preventing the hypersynchronization and propagation of electrical signals that lead to seizures. Unlike some other AEDs, Levetiracetam does not appear to directly interact with major inhibitory (GABAergic) or excitatory (glutamatergic) receptors, suggesting a unique mode of action.

Therapeutic Uses:

Levera XR 1000 is primarily prescribed for the treatment of epilepsy and its associated seizures. It can be used as monotherapy (the sole medication) or as adjunctive therapy (in combination with other anti-epileptic drugs). It is effective in controlling various types of seizures, including:

• Partial-onset seizures: These seizures originate in one part of the brain and may or may not spread to other areas.
• Myoclonic seizures: Characterized by sudden, brief, shock-like jerks of a muscle or a group of muscles, often associated with Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy.
• Primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures (also known as Grand Mal seizures): These involve both hemispheres of the brain and typically include a loss of consciousness, stiffening of the body (tonic phase), and rhythmic jerking (clonic phase).

By controlling seizures, Levera XR 1000 aims to improve the patient’s quality of life, reduce the frequency and severity of seizures, and potentially enable participation in activities that might otherwise be restricted due to the risk of seizures. It’s important to note that while Levera XR 1000 helps manage and reduce seizure episodes, it does not cure epilepsy.

Dosage and Administration:

Levera XR 1000 is a prescription-only medication, and its dosage is highly individualized, determined by the doctor based on the patient’s condition, age, weight (especially in children), and response to the medication, as well as kidney function. It is typically taken once daily, with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent drug levels in the body. The extended-release tablets must be swallowed whole and should not be chewed, crushed, or broken, as this can alter the drug’s release mechanism and lead to an immediate release of a large dose.

Crucially, patients should never stop taking Levera XR 1000 abruptly without consulting their doctor, even if they feel well and are seizure-free. Sudden discontinuation can lead to a worsening of seizures or the occurrence of status epilepticus (a prolonged or recurrent seizure state that is a medical emergency). Any changes in dosage or discontinuation should be done gradually under medical supervision.

Potential Side Effects:

Like all medications, Levera XR 1000 can cause side effects. Common side effects, particularly during the initial weeks of treatment or with dose adjustments, include:

• Central Nervous System (CNS) effects: Drowsiness, sleepiness (somnolence), dizziness, headache, fatigue, weakness (asthenia). These effects can impact alertness and coordination, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery.
• Behavioral and Psychiatric changes: Irritability, agitation, aggression, anxiety, depression, mood changes, and in rare but serious cases, suicidal thoughts or attempts. Patients and their caregivers should be vigilant for any unusual changes in mood or behavior and report them to the doctor immediately.
• Other common side effects: Nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nose and throat), decreased appetite, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, indigestion, tremors, vertigo (a sensation of spinning).

More serious, though less common, side effects require immediate medical attention:

• Serious allergic reactions: Rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, flu-like symptoms with a rash and high fever (Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms – DRESS syndrome).
• Kidney problems: Signs of sudden decrease in kidney function (e.g., low urine volume, tiredness, confusion, swelling).
• Hematologic abnormalities: Decreased blood platelet or white blood cell counts (leukopenia, neutropenia, pancytopenia).
• Liver problems: Abnormal liver function tests, hepatitis, hepatic failure.
• Severe skin reactions: Stevens-Johnson syndrome or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, characterized by severe blistering and peeling of the skin.
• Psychotic symptoms: Hallucinations, abnormal behavior, confusion, memory impairment.
• Worsening of epilepsy symptoms.

Precautions and Warnings:

• Kidney function: Patients with pre-existing kidney problems may require dosage adjustments, as Levetiracetam is primarily excreted by the kidneys. Regular monitoring of kidney function may be necessary.
• Mental health: Due to the risk of psychiatric and behavioral side effects, including suicidal ideation, patients with a history of depression or mental illness should be closely monitored.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Levetiracetam can pass into breast milk. The decision to use Levera XR 1000 during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be made by a doctor after carefully weighing the benefits against the potential risks to the fetus or infant.
• Alcohol: Concurrent use of alcohol with Levera XR 1000 is not recommended as it can increase CNS depressant effects like drowsiness and dizziness.
• Drug Interactions: While Levetiracetam generally has a favorable drug interaction profile compared to some other AEDs, it’s crucial to inform the doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products being taken to avoid potential interactions. Some drugs, particularly those that also cause CNS depression (like certain pain medications or sedatives), may enhance the sedative effects of Levera XR 1000. Methotrexate clearance can be reduced when taken with levetiracetam, potentially leading to higher methotrexate levels.

Storage:

Levera XR 1000 should be stored at room temperature, protected from moisture and direct light, and kept out of reach of children.