Does Levetiracetam cause irritation and forgetfulness?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 24-year-old man diagnosed with focal epilepsy two years ago. I am currently on Levetiracetam 500 mg twice daily and have not had a seizure for the past six months. However, I have been experiencing irritability and mild memory issues lately, which I think might be due to the medication.

Are there alternative anti-seizure drugs with fewer cognitive side effects?
Is it safe for me to drive now that I have been seizure-free for half a year, or should I wait longer?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

Levetiracetam is a very effective medicine for focal epilepsy, but it is known to cause mood-related side effects in some people. Irritability, anxiety, low mood, and mild cognitive issues like forgetfulness or difficulty concentrating can occur.

These symptoms are not dangerous, and in many patients, they improve after adjusting the dose or adding Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine), which can help reduce irritability in some cases.

If your symptoms continue or interfere with your daily life, your neurologist may consider shifting you to another anti-seizure medicine.

Options like Lamotrigine (which generally has a good mood and cognitive profile) or Oxcarbazepine may be suitable depending on your seizure type and overall tolerance.

Regarding driving, most international epilepsy guidelines advise being seizure-free for 6 to 12 months before driving again, but this depends on the rules in your country or state. Since you have been seizure-free for six months, please confirm with your neurologist and check your local transport authority guidelines before resuming driving.

You are doing very well by staying seizure-free, and with a few adjustments, your quality of life can improve while keeping your seizures well-controlled.

Feel free to follow up if you have more questions.

Thank you.