Keppra & Keppra XR Seizure Control for Pets
Keppra (Levetiracetam) for Dogs & Cats: Uses, Dosing, Side Effects, & Monitoring
Keppra (levetiracetam) is an anticonvulsant medication used to reduce the frequency and severity of your pet’s seizures. While it’s unlikely to make a pet completely seizure-free, Keppra is favored for its safety and minimal side effects. However, studies suggest it may be less effective than other medications, such as phenobarbital.
Skeletal formula of Keppra
Keppra Dosing Schedule & Missed Doses
It’s very important to give Keppra (levetiracetam) on schedule. Make a note of when you need refills, and try to get them as early as is practical. Set a timer on your watch or phone to help remind you to give the medication on schedule. It’s OK to be an hour late or an hour early, but consistent timing is important.
Regular Keppra: Given three times a day
Keppra XR/ER (Extended Release): Given twice a day with food
“Burst therapy”: We start the medication after a seizure and then give it every eight hours until no seizures have happened for 24 hours
If you miss a dose: If you miss a single dose of Keppra, give it as soon as you remember, even if it’s time for the next dose. Stopping this medication suddenly can cause seizures.
In general, seizure medications should be tapered before stopping. Exceptions to this include pets on very short courses of medications and pets experiencing dangerous side effects. As always, please contact your medical team before making changes to your pet’s medication.
Monitoring & Lab work While On Keppra
Regular vet visits are important while on Keppra (levetiracetam). We recommend visits at least twice a year to discuss how your pet is doing. We may also check this medication level if your pet isn’t doing well.
Potential Keppra Side effects in Dogs & Cats
Many pets take Keppra (levetiracetam) with no side effects. You should contact your medical team if any side effect is excessive and interfering with your or your pet’s quality of life.
Reported side effects include:
Sedation or hyperactivity
Uncommonly, loss of appetite or vomiting
Dogs on the extended-release version of the medication may pass “ghost pills.” Don’t be concerned if this happens. Your pet has gotten the medication; what they’re passing is just the leftover inactive parts of the pill.
For some pets, Keppra will stop working in 6–8 months. This is called the “honeymoon effect.” If you’re concerned that your pet’s medication is no longer controlling their seizures, please contact the medical team.
Contact Us
Monday–Friday 8:30 am–5:30 pm
Saturday by appointment only
Phone: (415) 967-3303
Email: frontdesk@remedyvets.com
