Overdose
An overdose of Keppra® can cause various symptoms. These include somnolence, aggression and reduced consciousness. In the worst case an overdose can also lead to respiratory depression and coma.
Especially the shortness of breath can, if not treated quickly, also lead to death of the patient. An overdose is treated by flushing the stomach or cleaning it by inducing nausea. In this way it can be prevented that much of the drug is absorbed into the blood.
Keppra® can cause various undesirable side effects. The most common side effects include fatigue, somnolence and dizziness. These side effects are particularly common at the start of treatment and should subside significantly after a certain period of acclimatization to the drug.
Other common adverse effects such as inflammation of the nasopharynx and frequent headaches may also occur. Furthermore, loss of appetite, depression, balance disorders, cough, abdominal pain, tremors, diarrhea, skin rashes.Side effects that have occasionally occurred are decreased platelet (platelets) and blood cell (leukocyte) counts, weight loss or weight gain, mental disturbances up to suicidal thoughts, hallucinations, anger, confusion, panic attacks and emotional instability. Effects on memory and coordination are also possible. Very rarely personality disorders, liver failure, overactivity of the muscles, pancreatitis, inflammation of the liver (hepatitis) and infection in general have been observed. If side effects are observed in the patient, he/she should inform the treating physician and possibly the dose of the medication should be readjusted or exchanged for another more tolerable medication.
Roadworthiness
Due to the treatment with Keppra® especially at the beginning of the therapy, most patients show a strong tiredness and drowsiness. As a result, the concentration also decreases. Accordingly, the patient should refrain from driving vehicles and operating tools and machines in order not to endanger himself or others.
Even after increasing the dose, the patient may still be temporarily unable to drive a vehicle. After consultation with the treating physician, the patient should wait to see how the medication is tolerated. If the patient’s ability to concentrate and react is no longer restricted, he can resume these activities.
