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Brivaracetam
This page contains brief details about the drug brivaracetam, it’s indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.
Background and Date of Approval
Brivaracetam is an antiepileptic drug developed by the U.S. Food And Drug Administration and initially approved for treating epilepsy.
Mechanism of Action of Brivaracetam
Brivaracetam acts by selectively binding to the synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) in the brain. This protein is crucial for the release of neurotransmitters such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate, which are key in managing brain activity. By attaching to SV2A, brivaracetam helps regulate the release of these neurotransmitters, thereby decreasing excessive electrical activity in the brain and reducing the likelihood of seizures.
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Uses of Brivaracetam
Brivaracetam is prescribed for managing partial-onset seizures in individuals with epilepsy. Also known as focal seizures, partial-onset seizures start in a specific area of one hemisphere of the brain. They are characterized by their localized origin, affecting only a particular region rather than spreading across the entire brain.
Brivaracetam Drug administaration and Dosage available
Brivaracetam is administered directly into the vein intravenously (IV). It is available as a powder for reconstitution, and a physician will prepare and administer the medication through a vein. The IV infusion is usually given over a period of one to two hours.
Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Brivaracetam
Warnings
This drug is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to Brivaracetam, other similar chemical compounds like levetiracetam or piracetam, or any of the other ingredients. You should not take this medication. If you have liver problems, it’s important to inform your doctor before taking this medicine. Depending on the severity of your liver condition, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or closely monitor your liver function during treatment. Children who are under 2 years of age should not take this drug.
Precautions
Individuals taking anti-epileptic medicines should be aware of the possibility of experiencing thoughts of harming or killing themselves. While this is a rare side effect, being careful is essential. You should contact your physician immediately if you ever have thoughts of harming or killing yourself while taking this drug. This is important for your safety and well-being. Brivaracetam is not recommended during pregnancy because its effects on pregnancy and the unborn baby are not well-known. Pregnant women should consult their doctor for alternative treatments. Breastfeeding is not advised in patients taking this drug because the medicine passes into the breast milk in small amounts and may harm your baby. Do not breastfeed during the treatment.
Side Effects
The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Brivaracetam are flu, feeling very tired (fatigue), dizziness, vertigo, feeling sick, constipation, depression, anxiety, not being able to sleep (insomnia), irritability, infections of the nose and throat, cough, and decreased appetite. Some serious side effects also include depression and anxiety.
Word Of Advice
Brivaracetam is given through intravenous infusion. Some individuals may experience infusion-related reactions, including a rash, hives, itching, or redness at the infusion site. If you notice any of these symptoms during or after the infusion, notify your physician immediately.
Frequently Asked Question
Brivaracetam is indicated for the treatment of partial-onset seizures in patients with epilepsy. It is used as an add-on therapy for patients who have not achieved adequate seizure control with other antiepileptic medications.
Brivaracetam works by binding to a specific site on synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) in the brain. This action is thought to modulate the release of neurotransmitters, which helps to reduce excessive electrical activity and prevent seizures from occurring.
Brivaracetam is indicated as an adjunctive therapy, meaning it is used in combination with other antiepileptic medications to manage epilepsy and focal seizures. It is not used as a monotherapy (single-drug treatment) for epilepsy. The choice of antiepileptic regimen should be managed to the individual patient’s needs and medical condition.
Common side effects of Brivaracetam may include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and irritability. If any of these side effects bothers you, inform your physician immediately.
If you miss a dose of Brivaracetam, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Disclaimer
The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.