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Keppra® extended release formulation - XR
Levetiracetam binds to synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) to reduce neuronal excitability and prevent seizure propagation.
Levetiracetam binds to synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) to reduce neuronal excitability and prevent seizure propagation. Used for Adjunctive therapy for partial-onset seizures, Adjunctive therapy for myoclonic seizures in patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, Adjunctive therapy for primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures.
At a glance
| Generic name | Keppra® extended release formulation - XR |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Levetiracetam XR |
| Sponsor | UCB Pharma |
| Drug class | Antiepileptic drug (AED) |
| Target | SV2A (synaptic vesicle protein 2A) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Neurology |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
Levetiracetam's exact mechanism is not fully elucidated, but it is believed to work primarily through binding to SV2A, a protein involved in synaptic vesicle exocytosis. This binding may modulate neurotransmitter release and reduce abnormal neuronal firing. Unlike many other antiepileptic drugs, it does not directly affect sodium or calcium channels or enhance GABA inhibition.
Approved indications
- Adjunctive therapy for partial-onset seizures
- Adjunctive therapy for myoclonic seizures in patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy
- Adjunctive therapy for primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures
Common side effects
- Somnolence
- Asthenia/fatigue
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Behavioral/mood changes (irritability, aggression)
- Ataxia/coordination problems
- Infection
Key clinical trials
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- Keppra® extended release formulation - XR CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Keppra® extended release formulation - XR updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- UCB Pharma portfolio CI