Adverse Psychiatric Effects of Levetiracetam
Abstract number :
3.138
Submission category :
Year :
2001
Submission ID :
424
Source :
www.aesnet.org
Presentation date :
12/1/2001 12:00:00 AM
Published date :
Dec 1, 2001, 06:00 AM
Authors :
A. Venkataraman, MD, EEG/Epilepsy, Long Island Jewish Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, New Hyde Park, NY; A. Gupta, MD, Long Island Jewish Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, New Hyde Park, NY; A.E. McBride, MD, Long Island Jewish Comprehensive Epilepsy Center,
RATIONALE: Levetiracetam(LEV) is a novel antiepileptic drug(AED) with efficacy against partial and generalized seizures. While premarketing studies have demonstrated good tolerance, recent open-label experience with LEV at our center has been associated with several cases of adverse psychiatric symptoms.
METHODS: We describe adverse psychiatric symptoms reported by 8 of 50 patients(16%) who received LEV over the past year. We noted prior psychiatric history, concomitant AEDs and psychotropic medications administered. We recorded the LEV dose and the titration rate at which the side effects occurred.
RESULTS: Of the 8 patients with psychiatric effects, 5 reported anxiety, 4 reported emotional lability, 4 reported agitation and 3 reported depression. Seven of the 8 patients had a prior history of depression or anxiety treated with psychotropic agents, but all seven indicated a distinct worsening of symptoms or development of different psychiatric symptoms after receiving LEV. Seven of the 8 patients reported their psychiatric adverse effects occurring at the starting dose of 250 mg bid. Severity of these symptoms led to discontinuation of LEV in two patients and 6 others are being carefully followed for these symptoms.
CONCLUSIONS: LEV may cause significant psychiatric adverse symptoms, even at low doses. Prior psychiatric history appears to be a major risk factor for incurring these side effects.