About brivaracetam
Antiseizure medicine (SV2A ligand)
Used for
- Treatment of partial-onset (focal) seizures, with or without spread to both sides of the brain.
Usual adult dose
Usually 50 mg twice daily; adjusted to 25–100 mg twice daily.
Usual dose in children
For children aged 2 years and older: usually 1 mg/kg twice daily, adjusted by weight and response.
Common side effects
- Sleepiness or dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Tiredness
- Mood or behavior changes
Important warnings
- May cause suicidal thoughts or behavior; monitor for significant mood changes.
- Can impair alertness and coordination; driving may be unsafe.
- Do not stop suddenly; seizures may worsen.
- Use caution with liver disease; dosing may need adjustment.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy data are limited. Seizures and treatment risks require specialist assessment; do not stop suddenly.
Breastfeeding
It is unknown whether brivaracetam passes into breast milk; discuss potential infant effects with a clinician.
Interactions
- Rifampicin lowers brivaracetam levels; a dose adjustment may be needed.
- Brivaracetam can increase levels of the active metabolite of carbamazepine.
- Alcohol may worsen sleepiness and impaired coordination.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.