Keppra is a brand-name drug that’s prescribed for certain types of seizures. It contains the active ingredient levetiracetam. Keppra may or may not be safe to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Keep reading for specific information about reproductive health and Keppra. For a comprehensive look at Keppra, see this article.
Note: This article focuses on Keppra, but the drug is also available as an extended-release form, Keppra XR. To learn more about Keppra XR, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
If you can become pregnant, it’s important to consider whether Keppra is a safe choice for you.
There are risks associated with Keppra treatment during pregnancy. But there are also risks associated with having unmanaged seizures during pregnancy. (Keppra is prescribed for treating certain types of seizures.)
If you’re planning a pregnancy or can become pregnant, talk with your doctor about potential treatments for seizures during pregnancy. Together, you can consider the risks and benefits of your treatment options and decide whether you should take Keppra while pregnant.
If you take Keppra during pregnancy, your doctor may encourage you to participate in a pregnancy registry. It’s a collection of information about the use of certain medications during pregnancy. The pregnancy registry for Keppra is called the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry. To learn more, visit the registry website or call 888-233-2334.
If you’re breastfeeding or planning to do so, it’s important to consider how Keppra may affect you and your child.
It’s not known whether Keppra should be taken while breastfeeding. The drug passes into breast milk, but it’s not known whether this affects children who are breastfed.
If you’re currently breastfeeding or planning to do so, talk with your doctor before taking this medication.
Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.