My daughter suffered head trauma from a fall, she never had a physical seizure, but her EEG showed some abnormality and they put her on Keppra as a precaution. She has been on it almost a year but recently has started to have severe mood changes, depression, she cries all the time, she is anxious, almost paranoid. I spoke to her neurologist and he says it is probably not the medication, and that soon he will do another EEG and most likely take her off the medication, I am concerned, what kind of side effects she will have when she comes off the Keppra.
Are there side effects after going off keppra? do they decrease the dose and then stop?
Question posted by leinogz on 30 Jan 2012
Last updated on 30 January 2012 by Weinrott
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Answers
Hello, leinogz. I have ten years experience on Keppra at different dosages. Keppra is one of the least AED's to cause side effects. The only problem I have experienced is irritability, hostility and aggression while on dosages 3000mg to 3500mg. There is evidence that children, teens and young adults can experience severe mood swings, depression and even become suicidal. Neurologists have a tendency to wave off symptoms that can be classified as mental illness (depression). You have every right to be concerned about the effects Keppra. I would suggest making sure health insurance covers a second opinion. If the depression worsens even a tad more, titrate down 500mg per week till on 500mg daily. Once at 500mg/day, skip every other day for ten days to taper off completely. Shame on the neurologist, suicidal thoughts should never be taken lightly. Hope all works out and your daughter all the best of health. All the best. ~ Weinrott
Related topics
Further information
- Keppra uses and safety info
- Keppra prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Keppra (detailed)
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