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Nonepileptic seizures under levetiracetam therapy
Andrei Ignatenco1, Shahar Arzy, Joseph Ghika
1Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, University Nicolae Testemitanu, Chisinau, Republic of Moldova.
Epilepsy & Behavior : E&B
|October 12, 2010
Summary
Nonepileptic seizures (NES) are a rare side effect of levetiracetam (LEV) treatment in epilepsy patients. These seizures resolved upon discontinuing LEV, suggesting a link to this antiepileptic medication.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Clinical Psychiatry
Background:
- Epilepsy management often involves antiepileptic drugs like levetiracetam (LEV).
- Nonepileptic seizures (NES) are typically associated with psychological trauma.
- Known psychiatric side effects of LEV include depression, hallucinations, and psychosis.
Observation:
- Two epilepsy patients developed NES upon initiation of LEV therapy.
- The NES significantly decreased or resolved after LEV discontinuation.
Findings:
- This case series suggests NES can be a rare adverse effect of levetiracetam.
- The emergence of NES in these patients expands the known spectrum of LEV-associated behavioral changes.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider NES in the differential diagnosis for patients on levetiracetam presenting with new-onset seizures.
- Further research is warranted to understand the mechanism underlying LEV-induced NES.
- This finding may influence treatment decisions and patient monitoring in epilepsy care.
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