What it is used for

Focal seizures
Myoclonic seizures and generalised tonic-clonic seizures, alongside other medicines

Read our guides:

Epilepsy

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Preventing seizures after a brain injury or brain surgery

How it works

Levetiracetam binds to a protein called SV2A on nerve cells and reduces the release of chemical messengers. This calms abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Levetiracetam can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

feeling sleepy or tired
headache
feeling dizzy
irritability
low mood or anxiety
loss of appetite

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

changes in mood or behaviour, such as aggression, agitation or depression
thoughts of harming yourself
a severe skin rash

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

Tell your doctor if you or your family notice changes in your mood or behaviour.
Follow DVLA rules on driving with epilepsy.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.