Neurocet
Form: Syrup
Strength: 500mg/5ml
Generic Name: Levetiracetam
Company: Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
MRP:৳ 240.0 (60ml bot)
Is Antibiotic: No
Indications
Neurocet is used to treat partial-onset seizures with or without spreading to other parts of the body in adults and adolescents from 16 years old who have just been diagnosed with epilepsy. Neurocet is also used as an additional treatment for:
- Partial-onset seizures in adults, adolescents, children, and infants (1 month and older) with epilepsy.
- Myoclonic seizures in adults and adolescents from 12 years old with Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy.
- Primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in adults and adolescents from 12 years old with Idiopathic Generalized Epilepsy.
Mode of Action
N/A
Dosage & Administration
Adults and adolescents from 16 years: The starting dose is 250 mg twice a day. After two weeks, Neurocet may be increased to 500 mg twice a day. The dose can be raised further by 250 mg every two weeks based on how well Neurocet works. The highest dose is 1500 mg twice a day.
Adults (18 years and older) and adolescents (12 to 17 years) who weigh 50 kg or more: The starting dose is 500 mg twice a day. This can be taken from the first day. Depending on how well Neurocet works and any side effects, the dose can go up to 1500 mg twice a day. The dose may be increased or decreased by 500 mg every 2 to 4 weeks.
Pediatric patients: The tablet form is not suitable for infants and children under 6 years old. An oral solution is preferred for this age group. Also, if children weigh less than 25 kg, the tablet may not be suitable. In these cases, the oral solution should be used.
Monotherapy: The safety and effectiveness of levetiracetam as a single treatment in children and adolescents under 16 years old have not been established.
Additional treatment: For children 6 years and older, if the dose is under 250 mg or cannot be achieved with tablets, the oral solution should be used. For children weighing 25 kg, the starting dose is 250 mg twice a day, and the maximum is 750 mg twice a day. Children who weigh 50 kg or more can be given the same dose as adults.
For infants aged 1 month to less than 6 months: The oral solution should be used.
Interaction
Levetiracetam does not affect the levels of other common seizure medications like phenytoin, carbamazepine, and others. Neurocet also does not get affected by them.
Probenecid: Taking probenecid (a drug for the kidneys) with levetiracetam can slightly affect how Neurocet is cleared from the body, but Neurocet does not have a major impact.
Methotrexate: When levetiracetam is taken with methotrexate, methotrexate may stay in the blood for longer periods, which can lead to higher levels. Monitoring blood levels of both drugs is recommended.
Laxatives: Using a laxative like macrogol with levetiracetam can reduce its effectiveness. Neurocet’s best to avoid taking macrogol one hour before or after taking levetiracetam.
Food and alcohol: Taking levetiracetam with food reduces how quickly Neurocet is absorbed but does not affect the overall absorption. There is no data on how alcohol affects levetiracetam.
Contraindications
Neurocet is not recommended for people who are allergic to levetiracetam or any other similar substances, or to any of the ingredients in the medicine.
Side Effects
Common side effects include:
- Adults: drowsiness, weakness, infections, dizziness.
- Pediatric patients: tiredness, aggression, stuffy nose, loss of appetite, and irritability.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Neurocet is not recommended during pregnancy unless necessary. If you are breastfeeding, Neurocet is best to avoid levetiracetam, but if treatment is needed, discuss with your doctor the potential risks and benefits.
Precautions & Warnings
If you have kidney problems, your doctor may need to adjust the dose. In rare cases, levetiracetam has been linked to kidney injury, so Neurocet should be used with caution.
Blood tests should be done if you experience weakness, fever, infections, or bleeding issues, as there is a slight chance of decreased blood cell counts.
There have been reports of suicidal thoughts or behaviors with anti-seizure medications. If you notice signs of depression or suicidal thoughts, contact your doctor immediately.
Overdose Effects
If too much levetiracetam is taken, symptoms may include drowsiness, agitation, aggression, confusion, breathing problems, or even coma. In case of overdose, seek medical attention immediately. The treatment may include gastric lavage or dialysis to help remove the drug from the body.
Therapeutic Class
Neurocet belongs to the class of adjunct anti-epileptic drugs.
Storage Conditions
Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep Neurocet out of the reach of children.
Similar Brands of Levetiracetam (Syrup – 500mg/5ml)
| Brand Name | Form | Strength | Company | MRP (৳) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eletam | Syrup | 500mg/5ml | Unimed Unihealth Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 400.0 |
| Epicet | Syrup | 500mg/5ml | Renata Limited | 400.0 |
| Levetira Syrup | Syrup | 500mg/5ml | Popular Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 400.0 |
| Oritam | Syrup | 500mg/5ml | Orion Pharma Ltd. | 400.0 |