Pharmacokinetics of levetiracetam.

Major considerations in the acceptance and impact of new antiepileptic drugs include their pharmacokinetics and their potential for interaction with other drugs. The pharmacokinetics of levetiracetam, a newly approved add-on antiepileptic agent for partial-onset seizures in adults, has been evaluated in 27 phase I and II studies. Consistent findings in these studies include rapid and complete oral absorption, linear dose kinetics, a minimal degree of protein binding, and predominantly renal excretion. Because of the lack of hepatic metabolism and low protein binding, the risk of interaction with other drugs is considered low.

Duke Scholars

Author Rodney Allan Radtke Neurology, Epilepsy and Sleep