Preferred Sample Type
Suitable Specimen Types
- Serum
- EDTA Plasma
- Li Hep Plasma
50 ul of plasma or serum.
Sample Processing in Laboratory
Centrifuge and place in toxicology box in cold room.Sample Preparation
UsualTurnaround Time
5 working daysSample Stability
4 ºCLevetiracetam (Keppra)
General Information
Levetiracetam (Keppra) is an adjunct therapy in the treatment of partial seizures in adults. Its mechanism of action is unknown; it does not act on sodium gated channels, or on GABA or glutamate receptors.
Patient Preparation
Samples for analysis should be taken pre-dose (trough levels).
Notes
Analysed by GC-MS
Reference Range
There is no evidence to justify monitoring of Levetiracetam other than to assess adherence, though a range of 6 – 20 mg/L has been suggested. Renal excretion means that the plasma half-life is longer in the elderly. Dose reduction is necessary at GFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2.