Levtica XR 500

Description

Levtica XR 500 is an extended-release (XR) tablet containing Levetiracetam 500mg. It is an antiepileptic drug (AED), also known as an anticonvulsant.

Uses: Levtica XR 500 is primarily used to manage and control various types of seizures in patients with epilepsy. This includes:

• Partial-onset seizures: Seizures that originate in one part of the brain, with or without spreading to other areas. It can be used alone (monotherapy) or as an add-on therapy (with other AEDs).
• Myoclonic seizures: Brief, shock-like jerks of a muscle or group of muscles.
• Primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures (Grand Mal seizures): Seizures affecting the entire brain from the start, causing loss of consciousness and muscle stiffening followed by jerking.

It works by binding to a specific site (SV2A) on synaptic vesicles in the brain, which helps to modulate the release of neurotransmitters and stabilize abnormal electrical activity that leads to seizures.

Dosage: Levtica XR 500 is an extended-release formulation, meaning it releases the medication slowly over time. It is typically taken once daily, with or without food. It’s crucial to:

• Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, chew, or break it, as this can affect its extended-release properties.
• Take it at the same time each day for consistent levels in the body.
• Never stop taking the medication suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to an increase in seizure frequency.

Side Effects: Common side effects can include:

• Drowsiness, sleepiness, fatigue
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Irritability, aggression, mood changes
• Nasal congestion
• Loss of appetite
• Weakness (asthenia)
• Infection

More serious, but less common, side effects can include:

• Severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson Syndrome)
• Changes in blood cell counts
• Mood and behavior changes, including suicidal thoughts or actions (report any such changes to your doctor immediately)
• Coordination problems

Precautions and Warnings:

• Kidney problems: Dosage adjustments may be necessary for patients with kidney impairment.
• Mood disorders/depression: Use with caution, as it may worsen these conditions. Monitor for any unusual changes in mood or behavior.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor. While some studies suggest a low risk, it’s essential to discuss potential risks and benefits. Levetiracetam can pass into breast milk.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol, as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects.
• Driving and operating machinery: This medication can cause dizziness and drowsiness, so exercise caution until you know how it affects you.

Manufacturer: Levtica XR 500 is manufactured by Nepal Pharmaceuticals Laboratory (NPL) in Nepal. Other brands of Levetiracetam XR 500mg are manufactured by various companies globally, such as Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (Levipil XR), Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (Torleva XR), and Cipla Ltd. (Levepsy XR).

Price in Nepal (as of June 2025): The price for Levtica XR 500 in Nepal is subject to change but can be found by contacting local pharmacies or checking NPL’s official price lists. Based on general market trends for similar medications, for a strip of 10 tablets, it might be in the range of NPR 90 to NPR 150, but it’s best to confirm with a local pharmacy.