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Brivaracetam - Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and Special Considerations

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Brivaracetam - Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and Special Considerations

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Brivaracetam is an anticonvulsant drug indicated for partial-onset seizures. Read the article below for more information on Brivaracetam.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Abhishek Juneja

Published At July 19, 2022
Reviewed AtSeptember 23, 2022

Overview:

Brivaracetam is manufactured and marketed by Union Chimique Belge (UCB), a Belgium-based biopharmaceutical company.

The drug was initially approved by the FDA in 2016 as an add-on therapy option for adult patients. Subsequently, it was approved as a monotherapy for adults in 2017, as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy for partial-onset seizure patients four years of age and older in 2018. In August 2021, an expanded indication for Brivaracetam was approved for treating partial-onset seizures in patients one month of age and older.

Brivaracetam is currently indicated for treating partial-onset seizures in patients one month of age and older.

How Does Brivaracetam Work?

The exact mechanism of action of Brivaracetam is not known, but it has shown a selective affinity for synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) in the brain. This could potentially be the reason for its anticonvulsant properties.

[Synaptic Vesicle Protein 2A (SV2A): The SV2A is a 12-transmembrane glycoprotein expressed in synaptic vesicles in the brain. It regulates the release of neurotransmitters and is also a binding site for certain antiepileptics, making it an essential variable in treating epilepsy].

Uses of Brivaracetam:

Brivaracetam is an anticonvulsant used for treating partial-onset seizures in patients one month of age and above.

Dosage Restrictions:

Routes of Administration:

  • Oral Routes:

  • Tablets.

  • Oral solution.

  • Intravenous route.

Dosage Strengths:

Tablets:

  • 10 mg.

  • 25 mg.

  • 50 mg.

  • 75 mg.

  • 100 mg.

Oral Solution:

  • 10 mg/mL.

Injection:

  • 50 mg in 5 mL.

Dosage Forms:

Tablets:

  • 10 mg Tablet: White or off-white, round, film-coated tablets.

  • 25 mg Tablet: Gray, oval, film-coated tablets.

  • 50 mg Tablet: Yellow, oval, film-coated tablets.

  • 75 mg Tablet: Purple, oval, film-coated tablets.

  • 100 mg Tablet: Green-gray, oval, film-coated tablets.

  • Oral Solution: Colorless to yellowish, mildly viscous, clear, raspberry-flavored liquid.

  • Injection: Colorless, clear, sterile solution in a single-dose vial.

Dosage Administration:

Monotherapy or Adjunctive Therapy:

  • For pediatric patients less than 50 kg in weight, the recommended dosage depends on their actual body weight.

  • Gradual dose escalation is not required following the initiation of treatment.

  • The dosage adjustments should also depend on the tolerability of the drug and the clinical response.

  • The recommended dosage for patients 16 years of age and older should be 50 mg twice daily initially, followed by a dose increase or decrease for the maintenance dose, where the minimum dose may be 25 mg twice daily, and the maximum dose may be 100 mg twice daily.

  • For pediatric patients weighing 50 kg and above, the recommended initial dose is 25 mg to 50 mg twice daily. The minimum maintenance dose is 25 mg twice daily, and the maximum maintenance dose is 100 mg twice daily.

Injection: Brivaracetam injection is recommended when oral administration is not possible temporarily. The injection is administered intravenously, and the dosage and frequency remain the same as the tablets and oral solution.

Special Considerations:

Dosage Adjustment:

  • Hepatic Impairment: The dosage should be reduced in patients with concurrent hepatic impairment at all stages. This is because of increased Brivaracetam exposure in these patients.

  • Rifampin Co-administration: Rifampin co-administration can cause a reduction in the plasma levels of Brivaracetam. Thus, the dosage should be doubled in patients taking Rifampin at the same time as Brivaracetam.

Drug Safety Concerns:

  • Pregnancy: Brivaracetam may cause fetal harm, so it should be avoided, or the dosage should be reduced.

Warnings and Contraindications:

Contraindications: Brivaracetam is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to the drug itself or to any of the constituents of the formulation.

Warnings and Precautions:

  • Hypersensitivity Reactions: Brivaracetam can cause hypersensitivity reactions in some patients. Specifically, patients displaying hypersensitivity may develop bronchospasm or angioedema.

[Bronchospasm: Tightening of the muscles that line the airways of the lungs or bronchi, resulting in coughing, wheezing, and some other symptoms].

[Angioedema: Painless swelling under the skin or affecting the deep layers of the skin, caused by allergies to dust, pollen, drugs, venom, or toxins].

  • Suicidal Behavior: Many antiepileptic drugs, including Brivaracetam, can increase the frequency and patterns of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in patients. Patients should be monitored for the emergence or worsening of mood changes, suicidal thoughts, depression, and other such symptoms.

  • Psychiatric Symptoms: Some of the patients taking Brivaracetam have displayed psychiatric events. These may include psychotic symptoms such as acute psychosis, paranoia, and psychotic disorders with hallucinations; and non-psychotic symptoms such as irritability, nervousness, anxiety, depression, restlessness, aggression, agitation, mood swings, apathy, and adjustment disorder issues, among others.

  • Neurological Reactions: Brivaracetam can cause fatigue, tiredness or somnolence (sleepiness), coordination issues, and dizziness. Patients should be advised to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until the extent of the effect of the drug on them is appropriately determined.

  • Withdrawal: Sudden termination of the drug may result in adverse effects. Withdrawal of Brivaracetam should always be slow and measured to avoid issues such as increased seizure frequency or emergency conditions like status epilepticus.

For Patients:

What Is a Partial-Onset Seizure?

When abnormal electrical activity occurs in just one part or a small part of the brain, it results in partial-onset seizures.

What Are the Types of Partial-Onset Seizures?

Partial-onset seizures include the following:

  • Simple Partial-Onset Seizure: Patients do not lose awareness and are entirely conscious. They may experience muscle stiffening and jerking.

  • Complex Partial-Onset Seizure: The patient may lose awareness, be blank, or appear to be daydreaming. They may also engage in a phrase or word repetitions and pick at their clothes.

Why Is Brivaracetam Prescribed for Partial-Onset Seizures?

While the way that Brivaracetam works for epilepsy is not fully understood, it is known that the drug has an affinity for the synaptic vesicle 2A in the brain, which is a binding site for antiepileptics. This may explain why Brivaracetam works as an antiepileptic. In particular, it has been noticed that Brivaracetam works quite well at reducing seizure frequency. Thus, Brivaracetam is a good adjunctive or solo therapeutic measure against partial-onset seizures. In addition, the efficacy and safety have been proven good in patients above one month of age, meaning that its application extends across age groups.

Facts One Should Know About Brivaracetam:

  • Brivaracetam is a controlled substance that can cause drug dependence if abused. Do not take more than the recommended dosage, or attempt to sell or share the drug, as it may cause harm.

  • Ensure that you keep the drug in a safe place, away from the reach of others.

  • Brivaracetam comes in tablet, oral solution, or intravenous injection forms.

  • It should typically be taken twice daily, as long as the minimum dose is at least 50 mg per day. The maximum dose may go up to 200 mg per day for adults and pediatric patients above 50 kg in weight.

  • For children weighing less than 50 kg, dose calculation is done by weight and will be prescribed as such by your doctor.

  • Your doctor may start you on an initial dosage of 100 mg per day and then change the dosage to a maintenance dosage that is either higher or lower than the initial dose, depending on your needs.

How Should You Take Brivaracetam?

  • Take Brivaracetam twice daily in the dosage prescribed by your doctor.

  • The tablets should be swallowed whole and are not to be crushed or broken.

  • The oral solution must be measured and administered using the calibrated device provided. A nasogastric tube or gastrostomy tube may also be used for administration.

  • The solution does not need to be diluted and should be taken as such in the dosage prescribed.

  • Any unused solution should be discarded within five months of opening the bottle.

  • The tablets and oral solution may be taken with or without food.

What Should You Discuss With Your Doctor Before Beginning Brivaracetam Therapy?

  • Medical Conditions: Your doctor should be made aware of any concurrent medical conditions you may have. The following conditions are particularly important:

  • Psychological issues such as mood changes, depression, and suicidal thoughts or behavior.

  • Substance abuse and dependence.

  • Liver problems.

  • Medications: Inform your doctor of all the prescription and non-prescription medications (including herbal and nutritional supplements and vitamins) that you may be taking.

  • Other: Your doctor should also know of the following:

  • Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy soon, you must tell your doctor, as it is unknown whether the drug can cause harm to the fetus. The decision to take the medication must then be made by your doctor and yourself, taking into account any concurrent medical conditions and your specific needs.

  • Lactation: No data is available on whether Brivaracetam passes into breast milk. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to do so. Your doctor will tell you the best way to feed your baby while on Brivaracetam.

Is Brivaracetam Safe?

  • Long-term use of Brivaracetam has proven safe and effective in reducing seizures. However, the safety of the drug in children below one month of age and during pregnancy is unknown.

  • Additionally, the drug is capable of causing addiction or dependence and is unsafe from that standpoint. It must therefore be prescribed, administered, and handled with caution.

Is Brivaracetam Effective?

In several clinical studies, Brivaracetam has provided an effective reduction in the frequency of seizures and may be considered effective in most patients.

What Side Effects Can You Expect With Brivaracetam?

The side effects you can expect with Brivaracetam include the following:

Nervous System Symptoms:

  • Somnolence (drowsiness).

  • Sedation.

  • Dizziness.

  • Fatigue.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms:

  • Nausea.

  • Vomiting.

Other Less Common Side Effects:

  • Incoordination and balance issues.

  • Constipation.

  • Irritability.

Serious Adverse Effects:

  • Suicidal behavior and thoughts.

  • Psychiatric issues such as nervousness, anxiety, depression, hallucinations, and psychosis.

  • Hypersensitivity reactions, particularly angioedema and bronchospasm.

Can You Stop Taking Brivaracetam Without Your Doctor's Say-So?

  • Never stop taking Brivaracetam without your doctor’s approval. The sudden termination of Brivaracetam can cause severe withdrawal symptoms and lead to uncontrollable seizures known as status epilepticus.

  • If you experience side effects or other issues with taking Brivaracetam, let your doctor know, and they will adjust the dosage or make the necessary changes accordingly.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions to Consider When Taking Brivaracetam?

The consumption of alcohol in tandem with the use of Brivaracetam can lead to an increase in side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and concentration difficulties. Therefore, avoid the use of alcohol while on Brivaracetam therapy.

How Should You Store and Dispose of Brivaracetam?

  • Brivaracetam should be stored at room temperature between 15 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celsius (or 59 degrees Fahrenheit to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). .

  • Keep the caps or lids on the bottles tightly closed and away from excess moisture or heat.

  • Do not freeze the Brivaracetam oral solution.

  • Keep the drug safely out of the reach of children, animals, and people prone to substance abuse, as it can cause dependence.

  • Unused bottles of the oral solution should be safely disposed of within five months of opening the bottle.

  • Dispose of Brivaracetam safely, preferably through a medicine take-back program if it is available in your locality. If you are unsure, contact your local pharmacist or hospital for information on how to dispose of this drug safely.

What Can You Do in Case of Overdose?

If you overdose on Brivaracetam, immediately contact your local poison control helpline or emergency services.

Alternatively, visit the emergency room immediately.

What to Do in Case You Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose of Brivaracetam, take the dose when you remember to. However, if it is too close to the next dose, then skip that dose and take the next dose at the correct time. Do not double dose.

What Else Should You Keep in Mind?

Brivaracetam can cause some severe side effects, so it is crucial that you watch out for them. The side effects you should particularly pay attention to include the following:

  • Early indications of suicidal thoughts and behaviors such as mood swings and depression.

  • Hallucinations and delusions.

  • Severe sedation, dizziness, or imbalance.

  • Swelling of the face, eyes, neck, tongue, and throat.

  • Hoarseness of the voice.

  • Breathing and swallowing difficulties.

For Doctors:

Indications:

Brivaracetam is an anticonvulsant drug indicated in the treatment of partial-onset seizures in patients one month of age and above.

Pharmacology:

Components:

Active Ingredient:

Brivaracetam.

Inactive Ingredients:

Tablets:

  • Croscarmellose sodium.

  • Lactose monohydrate.

  • Betadex (β-cyclodextrin).

  • Anhydrous lactose.

  • Magnesium stearate.

Tablet Film Coatings:

10 mg Tablets:

  • Polyvinyl alcohol.

  • Talc.

  • Polyethylene glycol 3350.

  • Titanium dioxide.

25 mg and 100 mg Tablets:

  • Polyvinyl alcohol.

  • Talc.

  • Polyethylene glycol 3350.

  • Titanium dioxide.

  • Yellow iron oxide.

  • Black iron oxide.

50 mg Tablets:

  • Polyvinyl alcohol.

  • Talc.

  • Polyethylene glycol 3350.

  • Titanium dioxide.

  • Yellow iron oxide.

  • Red iron oxide.

75 mg Tablets:

  • Polyvinyl alcohol.

  • Talc.

  • Polyethylene glycol 3350.

  • Titanium dioxide.

  • Yellow iron oxide.

  • Red iron oxide.

  • Black iron oxide.

  • Oral Solution:

  • Sodium citrate.

  • Anhydrous citric acid.

  • Methylparaben.

  • Sodium carboxymethylcellulose.

  • Sucralose.

  • Sorbitol solution.

  • Glycerin.

  • Raspberry flavor.

  • Purified water.

Injection:

  • Sodium acetate (trihydrate).

  • Glacial acetic acid.

  • Sodium chloride.

  • Water for injection.

Clinical Pharmacology:

Mechanism of Action:

The exact mechanism of action of Brivaracetam is unknown. However, Brivaracetam has been known to show a selective affinity for synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A), which is expressed in the synaptic vesicles in the brain. SV2A regulates certain neurotransmitters and is also a binding site for antiepileptic drugs. This may be the contributing factor to its anticonvulsant activity.

Pharmacodynamics:

  • Alcohol Interactions: Co-administration of Brivaracetam with alcohol can cause an increase in issues such as psychomotor function problems, memory troubles, and attention problems. There can also be a reduction in alertness and an increase in imbalance.

  • Cardiac Electrophysiology: No significant cardiac changes have been observed with the use of Brivaracetam.

Pharmacokinetics:

Whether it is used as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy, Brivaracetam may display similar pharmacokinetic properties.

Absorption:

  • Permeability: Highly permeable.

  • Absorption: Rapid and nearly complete absorption after oral administration.

  • Pharmacokinetics: Dose-proportional (from 10 to 600 mg).

  • Median Tmax (Without Food): 1 hour (0.25 to 3 hours).

Co-administration With a High-fat Meal:

  • Absorption: Slowed down.

  • Tmax: Delayed by around three hours.

  • Peak Plasma Concentration (Cmax): Reduced by 37 %.

  • Area Under the Curve (AUC): Reduced by 5 % (remained mostly unchanged).

Distribution:

  • Binding to Plasma Proteins: Weak binding (≤20 %).

  • Volume of Distribution: 0.5 L/kg.

  • Tissue Distribution: Rapid and even distribution.

Elimination:

Metabolism:

  • Primary Metabolization: Hydrolysis of amide moiety, giving rise to a corresponding carboxylic acid metabolite.

  • Secondary Metabolization: Hydroxylation on the propyl side chain, resulting in a hydroxy metabolite.

  • Mediation of Hydrolysis: Hepatic and extra-hepatic amidase.

  • Mediation of Hydroxylation Pathway: CYP2C19.

  • Hydrolysis of the amide moiety on the hydroxy metabolite or hydroxylation of the propyl side chain on the carboxylic acid metabolite can result in the creation of another hydroxy acid metabolite.

Excretion:

  • Primary Elimination: Metabolism and urinary excretion.

  • Terminal Plasma Half-Life (t1/2): Ninehours.

  • Urinary Excretion: Over 95 % of the dose, including metabolites.

  • Unchanged Excretion in the Urine: Below 10 %.

  • Urinary Excretion of Carboxylic Acid Metabolite: 34 %.

  • Time to Urinary Excretion: Within 72 hours of consumption.

  • Fecal Excretion: Less than 1 % of the drug dose.

Special Considerations:

  • Age: A weight-based dosing regimen is required for patients between one month and 16 years of age who weigh less than 50 kg. In older patients (in their 60s and 70s), the steady-state plasma clearance might be mildly lower than that of younger patients.

  • Sex: No significant differences in Brivaracetam pharmacokinetics with respect to gender.

  • Race or Ethnicity: No significant differences in Brivaracetam pharmacokinetics with respect to race or ethnicity.

  • Hepatic Impairment: Brivaracetam exposure increases in adult and pediatric patients with hepatic disorders.

  • Renal Impairment: The plasma AUC of Brivaracetam in patients with severe renal impairment is moderately increased. The renal clearance of the hydroxy acid inactive metabolites is decreased ten-fold.

Drug Interactions:

In Vitro Data:

Brivaracetam is not an inhibitor of:

  • CYP1A2.

  • CYP2A6.

  • CYP2B6.

  • CYP2C8.

  • CYP2C9.

  • CYP2D6.

  • CYP3A4.

Brivaracetam is a weak inhibitor of:

  • CYP2C19.

Brivaracetam is an inhibitor of:

  • Epoxide hydrolase.

Brivaracetam does not inhibit or weakly inhibits:

  • BCRP.

  • BSEP.

  • MATE1.

  • MATE2-K.

  • MRP2.

  • OAT1.

  • OAT3.

  • OCT1.

  • OCT2.

  • OATP1B1.

  • OATP1B3.

  • P-gp.

Brivaracetam causes negligible or no change in the mRNA expression of:

  • CYP1A2.

  • CYP2B6.

  • CYP2C9.

  • CYP2C19.

  • CYP3A4.

  • Epoxide hydrolase.

Brivaracetam is not a substrate of:

  • P-gp.

  • MRP1.

  • MRP2.

What Are the Clinical Trials Relating To Brivaracetam?

Description: Three phase-3 studies were conducted to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of Brivaracetam in patients with partial-onset seizures and without secondary generalization. A section of the patients had either been previously exposed to or was receiving concurrent Levetiracetam.

Study Design:

  • Type of Study: Fixed-dose, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter studies.

  • Number of Studies: 3

  • Number of Patients: 1,550.

  • Mean Duration of Epilepsy in Patients: 23 years.

  • Median Frequency of Seizures at Baseline: Nine seizures per 28 days.

  • Disease Characteristics: Inadequately-controlled partial-onset seizures with the concomitant use of one to two or more antiepileptic drugs, with or without vagal nerve stimulation.

Methods: Data from patients between 16 and 80 years of age was collected. The baseline was eight weeks, and the treatment period was set at 12 weeks.

  • Study 1: Dose comparison of Brivaracetam 50 mg/day and 100 mg/day with placebo.

  • Study 2: Dose comparison of Brivaracetam 50 mg/day with placebo.

  • Study 3: Dose comparison of Brivaracetam 100 mg/day and 200 mg/day with placebo.

Primary Outcome Measures:

  • Study 1 and Study 2: Percent reduction in partial-onset seizure frequency at seven days, over placebo.

  • Study 3: Percent reduction in partial-onset seizure frequency at 28 days, over placebo.

Patients who were receiving Levetiracetam concomitantly were excluded from the efficacy pool.

Secondary Outcome Measures:

  • Percent reduction in the frequency of partial-onset seizures from baseline to treatment period.

  • Seizure freedom while on treatment.

  • Reduction in the frequency of partial-onset seizures from baseline to treatment period (specifically, categorized reduction falling into categories like 100 % to 75 % reduction and 75 % to 50 % reduction).

Results (p<0.05):

Primary Endpoint:

Final Efficacy Population: 1,160.

The reduction over placebo (95 % confidence interval) in baseline-adjusted POS frequency per 28 days was as follows:

  • 50 mg/d (p = 0.0015): 19.5 % (8.0 % to 29.6 %).

  • 100 mg/d (p < 0.00001): 24.4 % (16.8 % to 31.2 %).

  • 200 mg/d (p < 0.00001): 24.0 % (15.3 % to 31.8 %).

The ≥50% responder rate was as follows:

  • 50 mg/d (p = 0.0015): 34.2 %.

  • 100 mg/d (p < 0.00001): 39.5 %.

  • 200 mg/d (p = 0.00003): 37.8 %.

  • Placebo (p < 0.01): 20.3 %.

  • Adverse Events Profile:

Treatment-emergent adverse events (Brivaracetam versus placebo) reported were as follows:

  • Somnolence (15.2 % vs 8.5 %).

  • Dizziness (11.2 % vs 7.2 %).

  • Headache (9.6 % vs 10.2 %).

  • Fatigue (8.7 % vs 3.7 %).

Patient Counseling Instructions:

Administration Instructions:

  • Take Brivaracetam only as prescribed to you.

  • Brivaracetam may be taken with or without food.

  • Tablets must be swallowed whole with liquid and are not to be crushed, chewed, or broken.

  • Oral solutions should be measured and administered using a calibrated device rather than a teaspoon or tablespoon.

  • Do not share or sell the drug, as this is illegal.

Complications or Side Effects:

  • Hypersensitivity Reactions: Advise patients to seek medical care if they experience bronchospasm, angioedema, or other signs of hypersensitivity.

  • Psychiatric Reactions: Instruct patients to immediately report symptoms of psychosis, like hallucinations and delusions, and behavioral changes such as irritability, aggression, anger, and depression.

  • Suicidal Behavior: Inform patients of the potential for suicidal behavior and thoughts, and instruct them to watch out for changes and report symptoms immediately.

  • Neurological Reactions: Reactions such as dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, and gait disturbances or imbalance may occur. Patients should be made aware of these possibilities and advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery if these symptoms occur.

  • Drug Withdrawal: Sudden withdrawal or termination of Brivaracetam may result in increased seizures or status epilepticus. Patients should be cautioned against attempting to change the drug dosage or terminate the drug by themselves.

  • Pregnancy: Patients should be encouraged to inform doctors of current or impending pregnancy before they are put on Brivaracetam. They should also tell their doctors if they get pregnant while on Brivaracetam therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.

What Is the Use of Brivaracetam?

Brivaracetam is an anticonvulsant drug that is produced by the Union Chimique Belge. It is mainly used for partial-onset seizures in patients above 1-month-old. It can be used as both monotherapy and adjuvant therapy.

2.

Is Brivaracetam a Diazepam?

Brivaracetam belongs to the anticonvulsants class of medications. It is used in treating patients suffering from partial-onset seizures. It reduces the abnormal electrical activity inside the brain.

3.

Is Brivaracetam a Narcotic Drug?

Brivaracetam belongs to the anticonvulsants class of medications used for managing seizures in adults and children as young as one month. It is a controlled schedule 5 substance that can be abused.

4.

What Are the Side Effects of Brivaracetam drug?

The side effects of Brivaracetam are:
- Hypersensitivity reactions or severe allergic reactions.
- Tightening of muscles in the bronchi region (bronchospasm).
- Angioedema.
- Suicidal tendencies.
- Psychological problems.
- Neurological signs like fatigue, insomnia, etc.
- Withdrawal symptoms.

5.

What Should Be Avoided While Taking Brivaracetam?

Alcohol should be avoided while taking Brivaracetam as it can increase the chances of other side effects like:
- Drowsiness.
- Dizziness.
- Difficulty in concentrating.

6.

What Is the Mechanism of Action of Brivaracetam?

Brivaracetam has an affinity to synaptic vesicle protein 2 of the brain. The synaptic vesicle protein 2A is a transmembrane protein that releases neurotransmitters responsible for convulsions inside the brain.

7.

Can Brivaracetam Cause Weight Gain?

Brivaracetam is used mainly to control seizures in both adults and young children. It does not cause any change in the body's weight.

8.

Can Brivaracetam Cause Sleepiness?

Brivaracetam is used mainly to control seizures in both adults and young children. It is an anticonvulsant drug that treats partial-onset seizures. The significant side effect of the drug is sleepiness.

9.

How Is Brivaracetam Taken?

Brivaracetam is used mainly to control seizures in both adults and young children. It can be given both orally or by injection. In addition, the drug is used as a monotherapy or adjuvant therapy in treating seizures.

10.

Is the Drug Brivaracetam a Sedative?

Brivaracetam is an anticonvulsant drug that is used to treat seizures. However, doses of the drug up to 50 mg daily can cause sedation and drowsiness.

11.

What Is the Difference Between Brivaracetam and Levetiracetam Drugs?

Brivaracetam and Levetiracetam both share the same chemical structures and are used for treating seizures. However, Brivaracetam has a higher anticonvulsant property than Levetiracetam.

12.

Do the Side Effects of Brivaracetam Go Away by Itself?

Brivaracetam is an anticonvulsant drug that is used in treating seizures. The usage of the drug is associated with several side effects; however, the side effects go away as the body starts adjusting to the drug.

13.

What Is the Child Dose of Brivaracetam?

The dosage of Brivaracetam drug for a child with a body weight of less than 50 kg depends on the child's actual weight. The dosage for adolescents 16 years or older, the dosage is 50 mg twice daily.

14.

What Is the Maximum Dose of Brivaracetam That Can Be Given to a Child?

For pediatric patients below 50 kg, the drug should be given based on their actual dose; however, if the child weighs more than 50 kg, the dose is 50 mg twice daily. Therefore, the maximum dose is 75 mg daily.
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Dr. Abhishek Juneja
Dr. Abhishek Juneja

Neurology

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