Does anyone know anything about the epileptic medicine, "keppra"?

Hi,
This is indeed a very interesting molecule. The name of the molecule is Levetiracetam or simply l-etiracetam. It has no relation chemically to any of the other anti-epileptics on the market. In fact all the other drugs in this category have been used mainly as Nootropics or "Smart Drugs"; these are drugs that improve cognitive functioning, concentration, memory etc. [eg. Piracetam (Nootropil), Aniracetam (Draganon), Pramiracetam (Neupramir), Oxiracetam etc.]

It will not cause weight gain and has shown to be safe and effective. But it does have a number of side-effects; some of the common side-effects include cough, dizziness, dry/sore throat, hoarseness, loss of energy, muscle pain/weakness, rhinorrhoea(runny nose), unusual drowsiness, tender and/or swollen glands in neck, difficulty swallowing, changes in voice etc.

Some of the less common side effects include
- Burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles," or tingling feelings/sensations;
- Dizziness;
- Sensation of constant movement of self or surroundings;
- Sensation of spinning;
- Loss of appetite;
- Weight loss;
- Increased coughing

There is this one case I have seen of Keppra inducing hallucinations in a female patient. I have not seen any other reports like these though.

Hope this helps you. Feel free to drop me a line if you need.

There is a lot of information on this drug at this website:
http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/keppra.htm