Levetiracetam (generic for Keppra®) tablets for seizure control

What Keppra® Is and How It Works

Levetiracetam is the generic drug for Keppra. It is an oral anti-seizure medicine used for partial-onset, myoclonic, and primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures. It comes as immediate-release tablets in strengths such as levetiracetam 500 mg, 750 mg, and 1000 mg. Many people ask about levetiracetam price without insurance, and Canadian pricing can help.

YouDrugstore is a licensed Canadian pharmacy headquartered in Manitoba, and licensed pharmacists review prescriptions before dispensing.

Levetiracetam works by modulating synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A). This action helps stabilize neuronal firing and reduces seizure activity. It has minimal drug–drug interactions and does not require blood level monitoring for routine use. Tablets are taken twice daily for immediate-release. An extended-release form exists in some markets for once-daily use.

We also partner with licensed, vetted international pharmacies to source authentic brands, maintain a wide selection, and keep prices affordable.

Dosage and Usage

• Starting dose (adults, immediate-release): often 500 mg twice daily.
• Titration: increase by 500 mg twice daily every 2 weeks as directed.
• Typical maintenance: 500–1500 mg twice daily (max 3000 mg/day).
• Pediatric dosing is weight-based; follow the prescriber’s plan.
• Swallow tablets whole with water. Take at the same times daily.
• Extended-release tablets, if prescribed, are taken once daily and not crushed or chewed.
• Do not stop levetiracetam suddenly. Dose changes are done gradually.
• Kidney issues may require dose adjustments. The prescriber will determine the regimen.
• Missed dose: take it when remembered unless close to the next dose. Do not double.

• Store tablets at room temperature, 20–25 °C (68–77 °F); brief 15–30 °C is acceptable.
• Keep in the original, tightly closed container, away from moisture and heat.
• Store out of reach of children and pets.
• For travel, keep medicine in your carry-on with a copy of your prescription.
• Use the labeled container. Bring extra doses for delays.
• Set phone reminders to take doses on schedule across time zones.
• Do not leave tablets in a hot car or direct sunlight.

Benefits and Savings

Levetiracetam has broad antiseizure activity and a straightforward dosing schedule. It has few interactions because it is not a liver enzyme inducer or inhibitor. Many patients tolerate it well. Flexible strengths, including levetiracetam 500mg tablets, levetiracetam 750 mg tablets, and levetiracetam 1000mg tablets, help fine-tune dosing. It is available as a levetiracetam generic, which keeps costs lower.

Buying from Canada can offer 60–80% savings compared with typical US prices. This is helpful for patients calculating the cost of levetiracetam 500mg without insurance. Multi-month supplies can also reduce your per-month spend.

For current offers, see our levetiracetam coupon.

Side Effects and Safety

• Drowsiness, fatigue, or dizziness.
• Irritability, mood changes, or agitation.
• Headache or weakness.
• Nausea, vomiting, or decreased appetite.
• Cold-like symptoms or cough.
• Coordination problems.

Serious effects are less common but need prompt attention: new or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, severe behavioral changes, hallucinations, severe rash, angioedema, or signs of an allergic reaction. Dose changes or stopping the drug should be supervised to avoid seizure worsening. People with a history of psychiatric conditions may require closer monitoring.

Onset Time

Some seizure reduction can appear within the first week, especially after starting 500 mg twice daily. Full benefit often develops as the dose is titrated over 2–4 weeks. Stable control may take longer in complex epilepsy. Behavior or mood changes, if they occur, can appear early and should be reported promptly.

Compare With Alternatives

Gabapentin is used for partial seizures and neuropathic pain. It has a shorter half-life and is usually taken three times daily. Interactions are limited, but sedation and dizziness can occur. It is a budget-friendly option for some seizure types, though not as broad-spectrum as levetiracetam.

Lyrica® (pregabalin) is related to gabapentin. It is taken twice daily for seizures and nerve pain. It may provide quicker symptom relief for neuropathic pain. Possible side effects include dizziness, weight gain, and edema. Both agents are alternatives when levetiracetam is not suitable or as add-on therapy.

Other choices include valproate, lamotrigine, topiramate, and older drugs like phenytoin. Each has specific monitoring and interaction profiles. Selection depends on seizure type, comorbidities, and tolerability.

Combination Therapy

• Lamotrigine plus levetiracetam: often well-tolerated; monitor for dizziness or rash.
• Valproate add-on: broad coverage; watch for sedation and weight changes.
• Topiramate combination: may aid weight control; monitor cognition and hydration.
• Carbamazepine or oxcarbazepine: consider CNS effects; review for interactions.
• Clobazam or other benzodiazepines: may increase drowsiness; use the lowest effective dose.
• When adding agents, prescribers may adjust doses to reduce side effects.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

Levetiracetam is used for adults and children with partial-onset seizures. It also treats myoclonic seizures in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, and primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures. People with prior mood or behavioral concerns may need careful monitoring. Those with severe kidney impairment need individualized dosing. Report any hypersensitivity to levetiracetam or excipients.

Pregnancy planning requires a benefit–risk discussion with the prescribing clinician. Abrupt changes can raise seizure risk for parent and fetus. Breastfeeding guidance should be individualized. Older adults may be more sensitive to drowsiness. Avoid activities requiring alertness until the effect is known.

To manage levetiracetam cost, consider generic options, 90-day prescriptions, and multi-bottle promotions. Reorder reminders help you avoid gaps. Patients tracking the levetiracetam price without insurance often choose larger supplies to lower the monthly average.

Authoritative Sources

UCB product information for Keppra

Health Canada Drug Product Database: Levetiracetam tablets

FDA prescribing information: Levetiracetam

Order Levetiracetam from YouDrugstore: add to cart, upload your prescription, and we ship with prompt, express shipping.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from your healthcare professional.