About brivaracetam
Antiepileptic; synaptic vesicle protein 2A ligand
Used for
- Add-on treatment for partial-onset (focal) seizures in epilepsy.
Usual adult dose
Usually 50–100 mg twice daily; may be adjusted to 25–100 mg twice daily. Injection is generally used temporarily when oral dosing is not possible.
Usual dose in children
For children aged 1 month and older, dosing is based on weight and age, usually twice daily; doses vary by age and weight.
Common side effects
- Sleepiness, dizziness, and fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
- Irritability, anxiety, or depression
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviour, rarely
Important warnings
- May cause sleepiness, dizziness, or coordination problems.
- Mood or behaviour changes, including suicidal thoughts, can occur.
- Do not stop suddenly; seizures may worsen.
- Use caution with liver problems; dose adjustment may be needed.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy data are limited. Use during pregnancy only when clinically necessary; do not stop treatment suddenly.
Breastfeeding
It is not known whether brivaracetam passes into breast milk. Discuss risks and benefits with a healthcare professional.
Interactions
- Rifampicin can lower brivaracetam levels.
- Brivaracetam can increase levels of carbamazepine and phenytoin.
- Alcohol may worsen sleepiness and dizziness.
- Other medicines causing sleepiness may increase these effects.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.