Final answer:
Levetiracetam is an antiepileptic drug that works by binding to a specific protein in the brain. It is mainly used to treat seizures and can be used as an adjunctive therapy in epilepsy. Common side effects include drowsiness and dizziness.
Step-by-step explanation:
Levetiracetam is an antiepileptic drug that is commonly used to treat seizures. Its mechanism of action involves binding to a specific protein called synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A), which is involved in the release of neurotransmitters in the brain. By binding to SV2A, levetiracetam modulates neurotransmitter release and reduces abnormal brain activity.
In terms of clinical uses, levetiracetam is primarily used to treat different types of seizures, including focal seizures and generalized tonic-clonic seizures. It can be used as an adjunctive therapy in patients with epilepsy who have not responded well to other antiepileptic drugs. Levetiracetam can also be used in the management of status epilepticus, a life-threatening condition characterized by prolonged seizures.
As for side effects, common ones include drowsiness, dizziness, and coordination difficulties. Other potential side effects that may occur less frequently include behavioral changes, agitation, and aggression. It's important to note that not every individual experiences these side effects, and they can vary in severity from person to person.