Lasting Side Effects of Keppra (Levetiracetam) in a Two-Year-Old After Three Weeks of Treatment
Keppra (levetiracetam) taken for three weeks in a two-year-old typically does not cause lasting side effects after discontinuation, as it has a short half-life of approximately 5 hours in children and is generally well-tolerated. 1
Common Side Effects During Treatment
Levetiracetam may cause several side effects while the child is taking the medication, including:
Behavioral effects: The most concerning side effects in children are behavioral, including:
- Irritability
- Aggression
- Nervousness
- Hostility
- Mood lability 2
Neurological effects:
- Somnolence/drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Dizziness 1
Less common effects:
- Nausea
- Rash 1
Duration of Effects After Discontinuation
According to pharmacokinetic data in pediatric guidelines, levetiracetam has a relatively short elimination half-life in children:
- In children 4-12 years: 5 hours 1
- In younger children: Potentially faster clearance due to higher metabolic rates
This suggests that after discontinuation, the drug would be eliminated from the body within 1-2 days (5-6 half-lives), and direct drug effects would cease shortly thereafter.
Risk of Lasting Effects
The evidence indicates that most side effects of levetiracetam are transient and resolve upon discontinuation:
- Behavioral side effects, while potentially troublesome during treatment, typically resolve completely when the medication is discontinued 3
- A case report of a 6-year-old who developed autistic regression on levetiracetam showed "dramatic response with complete resolution of new abnormal findings" after the medication was stopped 3
Special Considerations for Two-Year-Olds
For very young children (two years old), special attention should be paid to:
Developmental monitoring: While lasting effects are unlikely, parents should monitor for any changes in developmental milestones or behavior patterns after discontinuation
Seizure monitoring: If Keppra was prescribed for seizure control, parents should be vigilant for seizure recurrence after discontinuation
When to Seek Medical Attention
Parents should contact their healthcare provider if they observe:
- Any new behavioral changes that persist more than a few days after discontinuation
- Return of seizures (if applicable)
- Any unusual symptoms that weren't present before starting the medication
Conclusion
Based on the pharmacokinetic profile and available evidence, levetiracetam taken for a short duration (three weeks) in a two-year-old child is unlikely to cause lasting side effects after discontinuation. The medication is eliminated relatively quickly from the body, and most side effects resolve when the drug is stopped.