Levetiracetam | Laboratory research

General Information

Levetiracetam is a broad-spectrum antiepileptic medication used to treat partial, focal, myoclonic, tonic-clonic seizures in both adults and children. Levetiracetam binds to synaptic proteins, inhibits calcium channels at the presynaptic level and reduces neurotransmitter release. That is, it acts as a neuromodulator.

The main metabolite of levetiracetam is a carboxylic acid derivative, which is inactive and accounts for a quarter of the administered dose. The medicine is excreted by the kidneys. The half-life is 6-8 hours in adults, 5-7 in children, 10-11 hours in the elderly. In case of functional kidney failure, it is necessary to adjust the dose of the medicine and monitor the concentration.

The toxic effects of levetiracetam may include a decrease in the number of hematocrit, erythrocytes, and neutrophils in the blood, drowsiness, asthenia, dizziness.

The drug is metabolized by non-hepatic hydrolases.

When is the survey conducted?

to monitor the therapeutic effect

To monitor the toxic effect of the medication

Preparation of the patient: The test sample should be taken at least 12 hours after the last dose.

Material for examination: Venous blood

Referral norms: 10-40 μg/ml