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Levetiracetam

Keppra

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Sourced from published veterinary references. Awaiting credentialed clinical reviewer — our editorial process.

Drug Class

Anticonvulsant

Routes

POIV

Indications

EpilepsyEpilepsy (adjunctive or monotherapy)SeizuresStatus epilepticus (adjunct)

Mechanism of Action

Binds synaptic vesicle protein SV2A, modulating neurotransmitter release. Novel mechanism distinct from other anticonvulsants. Does not affect GABA or sodium channels at therapeutic doses.

Side effects & warnings

Excellent safety profile. Minimal hepatic metabolism (renal excretion). No significant drug interactions. Sedation and ataxia initially (usually transient). Use extended-release if available (q12h instead of q8h). Safe in cats.

Species with Levetiracetam dosing data (4 dose rules)

Cat (Domestic)Dog (Domestic)Rabbit (Domestic)

Species references:All Cat (Domestic) drugsAll Dog (Domestic) drugsAll Rabbit (Domestic) drugs

Evidence levels across 4 dose rules

Strong×2Moderate×1Weak×1

Each ExoticRx dose rule is graded by the strength of its primary evidence — see the editorial process.

Backed by 2 published sources

  • · Carpenter's Exotic Animal Formulary, 6th Ed
  • · Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

Sample dosing (2 of 4 cited rules)

A dog/cat sample is shown here. Cited dosing for all 3 species — reptiles, birds, pocket pets, livestock, and equine — is free on the per-species pages above. Pro adds the weight-based calculator for every species.

SpeciesRouteDoseFrequencyEvidenceSource
Dog (Domestic)PO20–60 mg/kgq8h (IR) or q12h (ER)StrongPlumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Dog (Domestic)IV20–60 mg/kgLoading dose IV over 5-10 minStrongPlumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

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Calculate Dosage for Levetiracetam