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If your neurologist or epileptologist has prescribed Keppra, there are a few things you should know. The most important is that you should take Keppra exactly as your doctor prescribes. In order for your medication to be effective, it is important to take it as directed.
Most people take Keppra twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. But your doctor will prescribe Keppra based on your needs. Keppra can be taken with or without food, but it should be taken at the same time each day. Tablets should be swallowed whole; be sure not to crush or chew your tablets.
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How much Keppra should I take?
Keppra comes in a range of tablet strengths (250 mg, 500 mg, 750 mg, 1000 mg) as well as an oral solution. Your neurologist will determine the most appropriate dose for you.
- 250-mg Keppra tablets are blue, oblong-shaped, scored, film-coated tablets marked with “ucb 250” on one side.
- 500-mg Keppra tablets are yellow, oblong-shaped, scored, film-coated tablets marked with “ucb 500” on one side.
- 750-mg Keppra tablets are orange, oblong-shaped, scored, film-coated tablets marked with “ucb 750” on one side.
- 1000-mg Keppra tablets are white, oblong-shaped, scored, film-coated tablets marked with “ucb1000” on one side.
- Keppra oral solution is a clear, colorless, grape-flavored liquid.
Before taking Keppra, make sure you were given the right medicine. The bottle should say “Keppra.” Be sure the pills look like the pictures below.
Is Keppra available for people taking multiple tablets or a higher daily dose?
Yes. The Keppra 1000-mg tablet is specifically designed for patients taking multiple tablets or who require higher daily doses. Speak to your doctor to find out if this convenient option is right for you.
Is there a Keppra dosage option for people who have trouble swallowing tablets?
Yes. If you have trouble swallowing tablets, let your doctor know. Your doctor can prescribe you the liquid form of Keppra. The liquid form of Keppra is easy to use. You don’t have to shake the bottle or keep it in the refrigerator. Use a medicine dropper or medicine cup to measure Keppra oral solution. Do not use a teaspoon. Ask your pharmacist for a medicine dropper or medicine cup to help you measure Keppra. If your healthcare provider has given you Keppra oral solution for your child, be sure to ask your pharmacist for a medicine syringe to help you measure the correct amount of Keppra oral solution. Ask your pharmacist for instructions on how to properly use the medicine syringe or dosing device that has been provided to you.
What if I started taking Keppra by IV in the hospital?
Your Keppra treatment may have been initiated by IV during a hospital stay. When you are discharged, you may need to be switched to one of the oral formulations of Keppra. If your doctor decides that you should be switched, you should be provided a prescription prior to leaving the hospital. Fill your prescription immediately so you can continue taking Keppra uninterrupted.
Do I still need to take Keppra if I am not having seizures?
Yes. Not having seizures means that Keppra is working. So keep taking it as your doctor says. In order for your medication to be effective, it is important to take it as directed. It’s important that you talk with your doctor before making a decision to stop using any antiseizure medicine.
What should I do if I miss taking my Keppra?
If you sometimes forget or fail to take Keppra, you won’t achieve the level of seizure control that’s possible. If you miss a dose of Keppra, do not double your next dose to make up for the missed dose. If it has only been a few hours since your missed dose, take Keppra as soon as you remember and then return to your regular schedule. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Talk to your neurologist, epileptologist, or nurse for more detailed instructions.
When you’re especially busy, it can be easy to forget taking medicines. Here are some tips that may help:
- Use a daily pillbox to keep your medicines conveniently available.
- Make taking Keppra at the same time each day part of your everyday routine. For example, it may help to take Keppra each morning and evening before brushing your teeth.
- Set the alarm on your watch and cellular phone to alert you when it’s time to take your medicines.
How long will I need to take Keppra?
Epilepsy is a chronic condition. This means that it doesn’t go away, even when your seizures are under control. That’s why you should take Keppra for as long as your doctor prescribes it. To maintain control of your seizures, epilepsy treatment will be an important consideration throughout your life. Our free e-mail newsletters have helpful tools and tips for living with epilepsy. Sign up now
How do I stop taking Keppra?
Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about stopping treatment with Keppra. Discontinuing medication should always be done with your doctor’s advice and supervision. It is very important to continue taking epilepsy medication for as long as your doctor prescribes it. Discontinuing medication without a doctor’s guidance is one of the major reasons people who have been seizure-free begin having new seizures. Seizures that result from suddenly stopping medication can be very serious.
Is patient assistance available for those who are unable to afford their Keppra prescription?
UCB, the makers of Keppra, does have a patient assistance program for people who may be unable to afford their Keppra prescription. For information, and to find out if you may qualify, call UCB customer service at 1-800-477-7877, option #7.
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