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Harlan SS, Philpott CD, Keegan SP, Droege ME, Karve AS, Foreman B, Wakefield D, Mueller EW, Sangha K, Ngwenya LB, Courter JD, Desai P, Droege C. Pharmacokinetics of Levetiracetam Seizure Prophylaxis in Severe Traumatic Brain Injury. Ann Pharmacother 2024; 58:705-714. [PMID: 37776163 DOI: 10.1177/10600280231202246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug pharmacokinetics (PK) are altered in neurocritically ill patients, and optimal levetiracetam dosing for seizure prophylaxis is unknown. OBJECTIVE This study evaluates levetiracetam PK in critically ill patients with severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI) receiving intravenous levetiracetam 1000 mg every 8 (LEV8) to 12 (LEV12) hours for seizure prophylaxis. METHODS This prospective, open-label study was conducted at a level 1 trauma, academic, quaternary care center. Patients with sTBI receiving seizure prophylaxis with LEV8 or LEV12 were eligible for enrollment. Five sequential, steady-state, postdose serum levetiracetam concentrations were obtained. Non-compartmental analysis (NCA) and compartmental approaches were employed for estimating pharmacokinetic parameters and projecting steady-state trough concentrations. Pharmacokinetic parameters were compared between LEV8 and LEV12 patients. Monte Carlo simulations (MCS) were performed to determine probability of target trough attainment (PTA) of 6 to 20 mg/L. A secondary analysis evaluated PTA for weight-tiered levetiracetam dosing. RESULTS Ten male patients (5 LEV8; 5 LEV12) were included. The NCA-based systemic clearance and elimination half-life were 5.3 ± 1.2 L/h and 4.8 ± 0.64 hours. A one-compartment model provided a higher steady-state trough concentration for the LEV8 group compared with the LEV12 group (13.7 ± 4.3 mg/L vs 6.3 ± 1.7 mg/L; P = 0.008). Monte Carlo simulations predicted regimens of 500 mg every 6 hours, 1000 mg every 8 hours, and 2000 mg every 12 hours achieved therapeutic target attainment. Weight-tiered dosing regimens achieved therapeutic target attainment using a 75 kg breakpoint. CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE Neurocritically ill patients exhibit rapid levetiracetam clearance resulting in a short elimination half-life. Findings of this study suggest regimens of levetiracetam 500 mg every 6 hours, 1000 mg every 8 hours, or 2000 mg every 12 hours may be required for optimal therapeutic target attainment. Patient weight of 75 kg may serve as a breakpoint for weight-guided dosing to optimize levetiracetam therapeutic target attainment for seizure prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Schuman Harlan
- Department of Pharmacy Services, Baptist Memorial Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, University of Tennessee College of Pharmacy, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Carolyn D Philpott
- Department of Pharmacy Services, UC Health-University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Division of Pharmacy Practice & Administrative Sciences, James L Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | | | - Molly E Droege
- Department of Pharmacy Services, UC Health-University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Division of Pharmacy Practice & Administrative Sciences, James L Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Aniruddha S Karve
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, James L Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Brandon Foreman
- Division of Neurocritical Care, Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Devin Wakefield
- Division of Trauma and Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Eric W Mueller
- Department of Pharmacy Services, UC Health-University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Division of Pharmacy Practice & Administrative Sciences, James L Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kiranpal Sangha
- Department of Pharmacy Services, UC Health-University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Division of Pharmacy Practice & Administrative Sciences, James L Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Community of Scholars Faculty, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Laura B Ngwenya
- Department of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Joshua D Courter
- Department of Pharmacy Services, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Pankaj Desai
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, James L Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Christopher Droege
- Department of Pharmacy Services, UC Health-University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
- Division of Pharmacy Practice & Administrative Sciences, James L Winkle College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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Sharpe C, Yang DZ, Haas RH, Reiner GE, Lee L, Capparelli EV. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data from the NEOLEV1 and NEOLEV2 studies. Arch Dis Child 2024:archdischild-2022-324952. [PMID: 38902005 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2022-324952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To confirm that levetiracetam (LEV) demonstrates predictable pharmacokinetics(PK) at higher doses and to study the pharmacodynamics(PD) of LEV. DESIGN Pharmacokinetic data from the NEOLEV1 and NEOLEV2 trials were analysed using a non-linear mixed effects modelling approach. A post hoc analysis of the effect of LEV on seizure burden was conducted. SETTING Neonatal intensive care unit. PATIENTS Term neonates with electrographically confirmed seizures. INTERVENTIONS In NEOLEV1, neonates with seizures persisting following phenobarbital (PHB) received LEV 20 or 40 mg/kg bolus followed by 5 or 10 mg/kg maintenance dose(MD) daily. In NEOLEV2, patients received a 40 mg/kg intravenous LEV load, followed by 10 mg/kg doses 8 hourly. If seizures persisted, a further 20 mg/kg intravenous load was given. If seizures persisted, PHB was given. PK data were collected from 16 NEOLEV1 patients and 33 NEOLEV2 patients. cEEG data from 48 NEOLEV2 patients were analysed to investigate onset of action and seizure burden reduction. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Clearance (CL) and volume of distribution (Vd) were determined. Covariates that significantly affected LEV disposition were identified. RESULTS Primary outcome: The median initial LEV level was 57 µg/mL (range 19-107) after the first loading dose and at least 12 µg/mL at 48 hours in all infants. CL and Vd were estimated to be 0.0538 L/hour and 0.832 L, respectively. A direct relationship between postnatal age and CL was observed. The final population pharmacokinetic(PopPK) model described the observed data well without significant biases. CL and Vd were described as CL (L/hour)=0.0538×(weight in kg/3.34)0.75×(postnatal age in days/5.5) 0.402 and Vd (L)=0.832×(weight in kg/3.34).Seizure burden reduced within 30 min of LEV administration. 28% of patients were completely seizure free after LEV. In an additional 25% of patients, seizure burden reduced by 50%. CONCLUSIONS LEV pharmacokinetics remained predictable at higher doses. Very high-dose LEV can now be studied in neonates. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT01720667.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Sharpe
- Paediatric Neurology, Starship Children's Health, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Derek Z Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Richard H Haas
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Neurology, Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Gail E Reiner
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Lilly Lee
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Edmund V Capparelli
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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Maglalang PD, Sinha J, Zimmerman K, McCann S, Edginton A, Hornik CP, Hornik CD, Muller WJ, Al-Uzri A, Meyer M, Chen JY, Anand R, Perrin EM, Gonzalez D. Application of Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling to Characterize the Effects of Age and Obesity on the Disposition of Levetiracetam in the Pediatric Population. Clin Pharmacokinet 2024; 63:885-899. [PMID: 38814425 PMCID: PMC11225543 DOI: 10.1007/s40262-024-01367-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Levetiracetam is an antiseizure medication used for several seizure types in adults and children aged 1 month and older; however, due to a lack of data, pharmacokinetic (PK) variability of levetiracetam is not adequately characterized in certain populations, particularly neonates, children younger than 2 years of age, and children older than 2 years of age with obesity. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to address the gap by leveraging PK data from two prospective standard-of-care pediatric trials (n = 88) covering an age range from 1 month to 19 years, including those with obesity (64%), and applying a physiologically based PK (PBPK) modeling framework. METHODS A published PBPK model of levetiracetam for children aged 2 years and older was extended to pediatric patients younger than 2 years of age and patients older than 2 years of age with obesity by accounting for the obesity and age-related changes in PK using PK-Sim® software. The prospective pediatric data, along with the literature data for neonates and children younger than 2 years of age, were used to evaluate the extended PBPK models. RESULTS Overall, 82.4% of data fell within the 90% interval of model-predicted concentrations, with an average fold error within twofold of the accepted criteria. PBPK modeling revealed that children with obesity had lower weight-normalized clearances (0.053 L/h/kg) on average than children without obesity (0.063 L/h/kg). The effect of maturation was well-characterized, resulting in comparable PBPK-simulated, weight-normalized clearances for neonates and children younger than 2 years of age reported from the literature. CONCLUSIONS PBPK modeling simulations revealed that the current US FDA-labeled pediatric dosing regimen listed in the prescribing information can produce the required exposure of levetiracetam in these target populations with dose adjustments for children with obesity aged 4 years to younger than 16 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia D Maglalang
- Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jaydeep Sinha
- Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UNC School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kanecia Zimmerman
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, PO Box 17969, Durham, NC, 27715, USA
| | - Sean McCann
- Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Andrea Edginton
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Christoph P Hornik
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, PO Box 17969, Durham, NC, 27715, USA
| | - Chi D Hornik
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, PO Box 17969, Durham, NC, 27715, USA
| | - William J Muller
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Amira Al-Uzri
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | | | | | | | - Eliana M Perrin
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Daniel Gonzalez
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, PO Box 17969, Durham, NC, 27715, USA.
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
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Lau A, Haag H, Maharaj A. A Simulation-Based Assessment of Levetiracetam Concentrations Following Fixed and Weight-Based Loading Doses: A Meta-Regression and Pharmacokinetic Modeling Analysis. J Clin Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38708556 DOI: 10.1002/jcph.2449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Current recommendations for refractory status epilepticus (SE) unresponsive to benzodiazepines suggest a loading dose of levetiracetam (LEV) of 60 mg/kg to a maximum of 4500 mg. LEV therapeutic drug monitoring can help guide therapy and is garnering increasing attention. The objective of this study is to simulate the probability of target attainment (PTA) of fixed dose and weight-based loading doses of LEV with respect to established therapeutic target concentrations. Meta-regression of the current literature was performed to evaluate the relationship between intravenous LEV loading dose and seizure cessation in refractory SE patients. A previously published pharmacokinetic model was used to simulate the PTA capacity of competing single intravenous dosing schemes (fixed vs weight-based dosing) to achieve maximum (Cpeak) and 12-h (C12h) plasma concentrations that exceed 12 mg/L. The meta-regression indicated that dosage was not a statistically significant modulator of seizure control at dosages between 20 and 60 mg/kg. Stochastic simulations showed all dosing schemes achieved plasma Cpeak >12 mg/L, but C12h levels were <12 mg/L in subjects over 60 kg with a fixed dose ≤2000 mg or in subjects <60 kg with a weight-based dose <30 mg/kg. Dosages of 40 and 60 mg/kg provided ≥90% PTAs across all weights. Using a weight-based loading dose of 40 mg/kg, up to a suggested maximum of 4500 mg, improves the likelihood of achieving a sustained therapeutic drug concentration after the initial LEV dose, whereas fixed <3000 mg may not achieve the desired concentration before maintenance dosing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Lau
- Emergency Medicine, Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hans Haag
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Infectious Disease, Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Anil Maharaj
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Wang R, Wang T, Han X, Chen M, Li S. Development of a physiologically based pharmacokinetic model for levetiracetam in patients with renal impairment to guide dose adjustment based on steady-state peak/trough concentrations. Xenobiotica 2024; 54:116-123. [PMID: 38344757 DOI: 10.1080/00498254.2024.2317888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Levetiracetam may cause acute renal failure and myoclonic encephalopathy at high plasma levels, particularly in patients with renal impairment. The aim of this study was to develop a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model to predict levetiracetam pharmacokinetics in Chinese adults with epilepsy and renal impairment and define appropriate levetiracetam dosing regimen.PBPK models for healthy subjects and epilepsy patients with renal impairment were developed, validated, and adapted. Furthermore, we predicted the steady-state trough and peak concentrations of levetiracetam in patients with renal impairment using the final PBPK model, thereby recommending appropriate levetiracetam dosing regimens for different renal function stages. The predicted maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), time to maximum concentration (Tmax), area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) were in agreement (0.8 ≤ fold error ≤ 1.2) with the observed, and the fold error of the trough concentrations in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) was 0.77 - 1.22. The prediction simulations indicated that the recommended doses of 1000, 750, 500, and 500 mg twice daily for epilepsy patients with mild, moderate, severe renal impairment, and ESRD, respectively, were sufficient to achieve the target plasma concentration of levetiracetam.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongrong Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Security Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianlin Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Security Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueliang Han
- Chinese PAP qinghai Hospital, Xining, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengli Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Security Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shu Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Security Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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Zhang M, Jin Y, Li W, He C, Di X, Duan Y, Chen L, Wang Z. Quantitation of levetiracetam concentrations in plasma and saliva samples by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry: Application to therapeutic drug monitoring for pregnant women with epilepsy. Biomed Chromatogr 2024; 38:e5777. [PMID: 37990827 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.5777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Although levetiracetam (LEV) has favorable linear pharmacokinetic properties, therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is necessary for pregnant women with epilepsy. This study aims to build a simple, reliable, and sensitive ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method for determining LEV concentrations in plasma and saliva samples, to support the routine TDM of LEV in Chinese pregnant women with epilepsy. The stable isotope-labeled LEV-d6 was used as the internal standard. The extracted samples were analyzed using a UPLC-MS/MS system with positive electrospray ionization. Mobile phase A was water containing 5 mM ammonium acetate and 0.1% formic acid, and phase B was 1:1 methanol-acetonitrile with 0.1% formic acid. The method was validated and utilized to determine LEV concentrations in non-pregnant and pregnant patients with epilepsy. The developed method was validated in both plasma and saliva samples over a concentration range of 0.1-50 μg/mL. The intra- and inter-batch accuracy for LEV ranged from -7.0% to 2.9%, with precisions between 2.7% and 9.3%. In pregnant patients, the mean dose-standardized LEV trough plasma concentrations were significantly lower than those in non-pregnant patients (4.73 ± 2.99 vs. 7.74 ± 3.59 ng/mL per mg/day; P < 0.0001). It is recommended that the TDM of LEV should be routinely performed during the different stages of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyu Zhang
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Department of Pharmacy, NMPA Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drug, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Clinical Trial Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Ying Jin
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Department of Pharmacy, NMPA Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drug, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Clinical Trial Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Wanling Li
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Chaoqun He
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Department of Pharmacy, NMPA Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drug, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Clinical Trial Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xiangjie Di
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Department of Pharmacy, NMPA Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drug, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Clinical Trial Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yifei Duan
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Zhenlei Wang
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Department of Pharmacy, NMPA Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drug, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
- Clinical Trial Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
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Guignet M, Vuong J, Martinez A, Ballapapinan T, White HS. Temporal relationship between levetiracetam nonadherence and breakthrough seizures in a preclinical model of temporal lobe epilepsy. Epilepsia 2024; 65:497-510. [PMID: 38031477 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Poor medication adherence remains a concern for individuals managing their epilepsy with antiseizure medicines (ASMs); however, ethical concerns around withholding medication make it impossible to study the causal relationship between missed doses and seizures in patients. Previous preclinical studies from our group suggest that mechanistically distinct ASMs have varying degrees of forgiveness when a dose is missed. However, with only a few ASMs studied in the context of nonadherence, we sought to expand on previous work to understand the relationship between levetiracetam (LEV) nonadherence and breakthrough seizures. METHODS Chronic oral dosing was initiated in rats with established epilepsy via our automated medication-in-food delivery system coupled to 24/7 video-electroencephalographic recording. Baseline seizure burden was established for 4 weeks before enrolling subjects into a 4-week treatment period with LEV in a 100% fully adherent (75 mg/kg four times daily) or 50% variably adherent paradigm. The temporal relationship between missed doses and breakthrough seizures was correlated with LEV plasma and brain concentrations in separate cohorts of animals. RESULTS Full adherence to LEV significantly improved seizure control by 50% in half of the animals. Poor adherence worsened seizure frequency by 85%, with most rats having more severe seizures that formed in clusters following missed doses. LEV concentrations remained below therapeutic levels (<10 μg/mL) in nonadherent animals, with brain and plasma levels directly correlating with the degree of adherence in a 24-h period. Missed doses of LEV immediately increased the risk of breakthrough seizures; however, this risk was significantly reduced with improved adherence in a 24-h period. SIGNIFICANCE These findings enhance our understanding of ASM nonadherence in preclinical models, highlighting that the timing of missed doses and their impact on seizures may vary between different ASMs. Notably, LEV demonstrates a robust pharmacokinetic reliance on missed doses leading to breakthrough seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Guignet
- Center for Epilepsy Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jonathan Vuong
- Center for Epilepsy Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Alejandra Martinez
- Center for Epilepsy Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Ticha Ballapapinan
- Center for Epilepsy Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - H Steve White
- Center for Epilepsy Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Cook AM, Hall K, Kolpek JH, Morbitzer KA, Jordan JD, Rhoney DH. Enhanced renal clearance impacts levetiracetam concentrations in patients with traumatic brain injury with and without augmented renal clearance. BMC Neurol 2024; 24:12. [PMID: 38166710 PMCID: PMC10759330 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-023-03515-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of ARC on levetiracetam concentrations during the first week following acute TBI. The hypothesis was levetiracetam concentrations are significantly lower in TBI patients with augmented renal clearance (ARC) compared to those with normal renal clearance. METHODS This is a prospective cohort pharmacokinetic study of adults with moderate to severe TBI treated with levetiracetam during the first week after injury. Serial blood collections were performed daily for analysis of levetiracetam, cystatin C, and 12-hr creatinine clearance (CrCl) determinations. Patients were divided into two cohorts: with (CrCl ≥130 ml/min/1.73 m2) and without ARC. RESULTS Twenty-two patients with moderate to severe TBI were included. The population consisted primarily of young male patients with severe TBI (mean age 40 years old, 68% male, median admission GCS 4). Each received levetiracetam 1000 mg IV every 12 h for the study period. ARC was present in 77.3% of patients, with significantly lower levetiracetam concentrations in ARC patients and below the conservative therapeutic range (< 6mcg/mL) for all study days. In patients without ARC, the serum concentrations were also below the expected range on all but two study days (Days 4 and 5). Four of the 22 (18.2%) patients exhibited seizure activity during the study period (two of these patients exhibited ARC). Cystatin C concentrations were significantly lower in patients with ARC, though the mean for all patients was within the typical normal range. CONCLUSIONS ARC has a high prevalence in patients with moderate to severe TBI. Levetiracetam concentrations after standard dosing were low in all TBI patients, but significantly lower in patients with ARC. This study highlights the need to consider personalized drug dosing in TBI patients irrespective of the presence of ARC. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION This study was registered at cliicaltrials.gov (NCT02437838) Registered on 08/05/2015, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02437838 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron M Cook
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy, Lexington, KY, USA
- Pharmacy Services UKHealthCare, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Kaylee Hall
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Jimmi Hatton Kolpek
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Kathryn A Morbitzer
- Division of Practice Advancement and Clinical Education, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Campus Box 7574, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - J Dedrick Jordan
- Departments of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Denise H Rhoney
- Division of Practice Advancement and Clinical Education, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Campus Box 7574, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
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Mastrocco A, Prittie J, West C, Clark M. A review of the pharmacology and clinical applications of levetiracetam in dogs and cats. J Vet Emerg Crit Care (San Antonio) 2024; 34:9-22. [PMID: 37987141 DOI: 10.1111/vec.13355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review and summarize the pharmacology of the antiepileptic drug (AED), levetiracetam (LEV), and to discuss its clinical utility in dogs and cats. DATA SOURCES Veterinary and human peer-reviewed medical literature and the authors' clinical experience. SUMMARY LEV is an AED with mechanisms of action distinct from those of other AEDs. In people and small animals, LEV exhibits linear kinetics, excellent oral bioavailability, and minimal drug-drug interactions. Serious side effects are rarely reported in any species. LEV use is gaining favor for treating epilepsy in small animals and may have wider clinical applications in patients with portosystemic shunts, neuroglycopenia, and traumatic brain injury. In people, LEV may improve cognitive function in patients with dementia. CONCLUSION LEV is a well-tolerated AED with well-documented efficacy in human patients. Although its use is becoming more common in veterinary medicine, its role as a first-line monotherapy in small animal epileptics remains to be determined. This review of the human and animal literature regarding LEV describes its role in epileptic people and animals as well as in other disease states and provides recommendations for clinical usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Mastrocco
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care, The Animal Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jennifer Prittie
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care, The Animal Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Chad West
- Department of Neurology, The Animal Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Melissa Clark
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists, Houston, Texas, USA
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10
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Zimmerman KO, Wu H, Maharaj A, Turner A, Chen JY, Hornik CD, Arnold S, Muller W, Al-Uzri A, Meyer M, Shiloh-Malawsky Y, Taravath S, Lakhotia A, Joshi C, Jackman J, Hornik CP. Pharmacokinetics and Proposed Dosing of Levetiracetam in Children With Obesity. J Pediatr Pharmacol Ther 2023; 28:693-703. [PMID: 38094673 PMCID: PMC10715382 DOI: 10.5863/1551-6776-28.8.693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Characterize levetiracetam pharmacokinetics (PK) in children with obesity to inform dosing. METHODS Children 2 to <21 years old receiving standard of care oral levetiracetam across two opportunistic studies provided blood samples. Levetiracetam plasma PK data were analyzed with a nonlinear mixed-effects modeling approach. Indirect measures for body size and covariates were tested for model inclusion. Individual empirical Bayesian estimates using the final model parameters were compared by obesity status. Monte Carlo simulation using total body weight was performed in children with normal estimated glomerular filtration rate to identify dosing for children with obesity that resulted in comparable exposures to normal weight adults and children after receiving label dosing. RESULTS The population PK model was developed from 341 plasma concentrations from 169 children. A 1-compartment model best fit the data with fat-free mass as a significant covariate. Compared with children with normal weight, children with obesity had significantly lower body weight-normalized clearance (median [range], 4.77 [1.49-10.44] and 3.71 [0.86-13.55] L/h/70 kg, respectively). After label dosing with the oral formulation in children with obesity 4 to <16 years old, maximum and minimum steady-state concentrations were higher (25% and 41%, respectively [oral solution] and 27% and 19%, respectively [tablet]) compared with children with normal weight. Comparable exposures between children with and without obesity were achieved with weight-tiered dosing regimens of <75 kg or ≥75 kg. CONCLUSIONS Weight-tiered dosing for levetiracetam oral solution and tablets for children with obesity 4 to <16 years old results in more comparable exposures to children of normal weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanecia O. Zimmerman
- Department of Pediatrics (KOZ, CDH, CPH), Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
- Duke Clinical Research Institute (KOZ, HW, CDH, JJ, CPH), Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Huali Wu
- Duke Clinical Research Institute (KOZ, HW, CDH, JJ, CPH), Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Anil Maharaj
- Pharmaceutical Sciences (AM), The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alex Turner
- Undergraduate Student (AT), North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC
| | - Jia-Yuh Chen
- Senior Biostatistician (JYC), The EMMES Corporation, Rockville, MD
| | - Chi D. Hornik
- Department of Pediatrics (KOZ, CDH, CPH), Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
- Duke Clinical Research Institute (KOZ, HW, CDH, JJ, CPH), Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Susan Arnold
- Department of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics (SA), University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas, Dallas, TX
| | - William Muller
- Infectious Disease (WM), Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Amira Al-Uzri
- Pediatric Nephrology (AA-U), Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Marisa Meyer
- Pediatric Critical Care (MM), Nemours Children’s Health, Wilmington, DE
| | - Yael Shiloh-Malawsky
- Department of Neurology (YS-M), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | | | - Arpita Lakhotia
- Pediatric Neurology (AL), Norton Children’s Hospital and University of Louisville, Louisville, KY
| | - Charuta Joshi
- Pediatric Neurology (CJ), The Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO
| | - Jennifer Jackman
- Duke Clinical Research Institute (KOZ, HW, CDH, JJ, CPH), Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Christoph P. Hornik
- Department of Pediatrics (KOZ, CDH, CPH), Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
- Duke Clinical Research Institute (KOZ, HW, CDH, JJ, CPH), Duke University, Durham, NC
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11
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Perkins JD, Abdelmoneim MS, Wilkins SS, Kamran S, Mesraoua B, Melikyan G, Alrabi A, El-Bardissy A, Elalamy O, Al Hail HJ. Dosage, time, and polytherapy dependent effects of different levetiracetam regimens on cognitive function. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 148:109453. [PMID: 37783028 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cognitive impairment is a potential drawback of antiseizure medications. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of different levetiracetam drug regimens on cognitive function. METHODS A retrospective analysis identified 221 patients diagnosed with seizures who underwent cognitive screening. Patients were categorized into four groups: no medications, non-levetiracetam medications, high and low dose levetiracetam. Composite scores determined low and high levetiracetam groups whereby one point was added for each increment in dosage, duration since uptake, and concurrent anti-seizure medication. Variables known to affect cognition were recorded and classified as demographic, seizure-related, diagnosis-related, and psychopathology. Logistic regression was used to identify variables associated with cognitive scores below cut-off. RESULTS Multivariable analysis found being male, non-active in the community, less than 12 years of education, left temporal lobe epilepsy, high seizure frequency, and depression were associated with poor cognitive performance. In a final regression analysis, the high levetiracetam group exhibited a 4.5-fold higher likelihood of scoring below cut-off than the medication-free group (OR 4.5, CI 1.5-13.6, p<.08). Depression (OR 2.1, CI 1.1-3.9, p<.03), being male (OR 2.2, CI 1.1-4.3, p<.02), and not being active in the community (OR 3.8, 1.6-8.7, p <.003) remained significant contributors to the model. Language (p<.05), attention (p<.05), and delayed recall (p<.001) were the most affected cognitive domains. SIGNIFICANCE When taken in small doses, for brief periods as monotherapy, levetiracetam minimally influences cognition. At higher doses, as part of long-term seizure management, in conjunction with multiple ASMs, LEV is associated with cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Davis Perkins
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; PMARC, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh. UK.
| | | | - Stacy Schantz Wilkins
- Greater Los Angeles VA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Saadat Kamran
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Weill Cornell Medicine, Qatar, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Boulenouar Mesraoua
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Weill Cornell Medicine, Qatar, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Gayane Melikyan
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Weill Cornell Medicine, Qatar, Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | - Osama Elalamy
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Weill Cornell Medicine, Qatar, Education City, Doha, Qatar
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12
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Cuellar-Valencia L, Claros-Hulbert A, Ortegon A, Pino J, Velandia L, Correa-Morales JE. Subcutaneous Levetiracetam Administration in Latino Patients on Home Care. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2023:10499091231212450. [PMID: 37907203 DOI: 10.1177/10499091231212450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Levetiracetam has a favorable pharmacology profile to be used subcutaneously. However, its subcutaneous use is still considered off-label as this is beyond its license. The evidence base for its safety, tolerability, and efficacy is limited to observational studies. Objectives: To report the safety and efficacy of subcutaneous levetiracetam in Latino patients on home care. Design: Observational retrospective case series study. Subjects: Consecutive sample of Latino adults with life-limiting illnesses. Methods: A case series framework with 4 domains (selection, ascertainment, causality, and reporting) to ensure reporting quality was used. Additionally, 8 relevant outcomes established in a previous comprehensive review, were collected and reported. Adverse reactions were documented using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events. Results: Fifteen Latino patients with oncological and non-oncological diagnoses received subcutaneous levetiracetam for a mean of 21 days on home care. Levetiracetam was most frequently initiated subcutaneously due to loss of the oral route. The average dosage of subcutaneous levetiracetam was 1200 mg. Only 1 patient required a dose adjustment, and only 2 patients experienced a total of 5 seizures during the therapy trial. No adverse reactions were reported. Conclusions: Subcutaneous levetiracetam appears to be effective and safe. This case series of Latino patients in home care expands the evidence of its use in the home care setting. The preliminary data reported by now on multiple case series warrants robust trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cuellar-Valencia
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Sabana, Bogotá DC, Colombia
- Colombian National Cancer Institute, Bogotá DC, Colombia
| | - Angelica Claros-Hulbert
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Sabana, Bogotá DC, Colombia
- Colombian National Cancer Institute, Bogotá DC, Colombia
| | - Adriana Ortegon
- Forja home care IPS, Bogotá DC, Colombia
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad del Bosque, Bogotá DC, Colombia
| | - Juliana Pino
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Sabana, Bogotá DC, Colombia
- Forja home care IPS, Bogotá DC, Colombia
| | | | - Juan Esteban Correa-Morales
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Sabana, Bogotá DC, Colombia
- Colombian National Cancer Institute, Bogotá DC, Colombia
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13
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Shao W, Shen C, Wang W, Sun H, Wang X, Geng K, Wang X, Xie H. Development and Validation of Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Model of Levetiracetam to Predict Exposure and Dose Optimization in Pediatrics. J Pharm Sci 2023; 112:2667-2675. [PMID: 37023853 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2023.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Levetiracetam (Lev) is an antiepileptic drug that has been increasingly used in the epilepsy pediatric population in recent years, but its pharmacokinetic behavior in pediatric population needs to be characterized clearly. Clinical trials for the pediatric drug remain difficult to conduct due to ethical and practical factors. The purpose of this study was to use the physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model to predict changes in plasma exposure of Lev in pediatric patients and to provide recommendations for dose adjustment. A PBPK model of Lev in adults was developed using PK-Sim® software and extrapolated to the entire age range of the pediatric population. The model was evaluated using clinical pharmacokinetic data. The results showed the good fit between predictions and observations of the adult and pediatric models. The recommended doses for neonates, infants and children are 0.78, 1.67 and 1.22 times that of adults, respectively. Moreover, at the same dose, plasma exposure in adolescents was similar to that of adults. The PBPK models of Lev for adults and pediatrics were successfully developed and validated to provide a reference for the rational administration of drugs in the pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxin Shao
- Anhui Provincial Center for Drug Clinical Evaluation, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China
| | - Chaozhuang Shen
- Anhui Provincial Center for Drug Clinical Evaluation, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China
| | - Wenhui Wang
- Anhui Provincial Center for Drug Clinical Evaluation, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China
| | - Hua Sun
- Anhui Provincial Center for Drug Clinical Evaluation, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China
| | - Xiaohu Wang
- Anhui Provincial Center for Drug Clinical Evaluation, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China
| | - Kuo Geng
- Anhui Provincial Center for Drug Clinical Evaluation, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China
| | - Xingwen Wang
- Anhui Provincial Center for Drug Clinical Evaluation, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China
| | - Haitang Xie
- Anhui Provincial Center for Drug Clinical Evaluation, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241001, Anhui, China.
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ALRabeeah D, Almomen A, Alzoman N, Arafah M. Evaluating the bioequivalence of levetiracetam brand and generic oral tablets available in the Saudi market in vivo. Saudi Pharm J 2023; 31:101758. [PMID: 37753207 PMCID: PMC10518482 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2023.101758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Epilepsy is a common global neurological disorder. About 30% of epileptic patients are managed with anti-epileptic Drugs (AEDs). Since 2000, Levetiracetam (LEV) has been marketed around the world as an AED under the brand name Keppra, and recently more generics are found in the Saudi market as cheaper alternatives. The objective of this study is to evaluate the bioequivalence of LEV brand and generics available in the Saudi market in mice. Methods Pharmacokinetics (PK), liver function test, and behavioral studies were conducted for LEV brand and generic in different groups of Blab/c mice. Results PK results show a significance difference in PK parameters mostly evidenced with generic 3, then generic 2. The only significant different between Keppra and generic 1 was in T1/2. In addition, Keppra did not significantly increase liver enzymes in comparison to other generics. On the other hand, other generics showed less favorable results in increasing liver enzymes. Keppra reduced the number and intensity of epileptic attacks, had no mortality rate due to epilepsy, and was associated with less sever seizures attacks. Conclusion Keppra, the brand form of LEV, has better safety and efficacy profiles in mice compared to 3 generics found in the Saudi market. Therefore, we recommend evaluating the same parameters tested in this study in patients utilizing similar generics and brand to establish the existence of bioequivalence between LEV brand and generics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danah ALRabeeah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aliyah Almomen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nourah Alzoman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maria Arafah
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11495, Saudi Arabia
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15
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De Sutter PJ, Rossignol P, Breëns L, Gasthuys E, Vermeulen A. Predicting Volume of Distribution in Neonates: Performance of Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modelling. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2348. [PMID: 37765316 PMCID: PMC10536587 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15092348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The volume of distribution at steady state (Vss) in neonates is still often estimated through isometric scaling from adult values, disregarding developmental changes beyond body weight. This study aimed to compare the accuracy of two physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) Vss prediction methods in neonates (Poulin & Theil with Berezhkovskiy correction (P&T+) and Rodgers & Rowland (R&R)) with isometrical scaling. PBPK models were developed for 24 drugs using in-vitro and in-silico data. Simulations were done in Simcyp (V22) using predefined populations. Clinical data from 86 studies in neonates (including preterms) were used for comparison, and accuracy was assessed using (absolute) average fold errors ((A)AFEs). Isometric scaling resulted in underestimated Vss values in neonates (AFE: 0.61), and both PBPK methods reduced the magnitude of underprediction (AFE: 0.82-0.83). The P&T+ method demonstrated superior overall accuracy compared to isometric scaling (AAFE of 1.68 and 1.77, respectively), while the R&R method exhibited lower overall accuracy (AAFE: 2.03). Drug characteristics (LogP and ionization type) and inclusion of preterm neonates did not significantly impact the magnitude of error associated with isometric scaling or PBPK modeling. These results highlight both the limitations and the applicability of PBPK methods for the prediction of Vss in the absence of clinical data.
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16
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Abdelaziz SMH, Abdelgalil RM, Abdelmohsen SR. Morphological, biochemical, and histopathological effects of levetiracetam on pregnant albino rats and their offspring. Ultrastruct Pathol 2023; 47:278-291. [PMID: 37132626 DOI: 10.1080/01913123.2023.2185719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
One of the most widely used medications for epilepsy is the broad-spectrum antiseizure levetiracetam. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of levetiracetam on the bodyweight and liver of pregnant rats and their offspring. The study involved treating the rats during pregnancy and lactation and then examining the pregnant rats and their offspring. Two groups of 40 pregnant rats were created (I, II). Each group was split up into two smaller groups (A, B). About 1.5 mL/day of distilled water was gavaged to the rats in group I, either continuously throughout pregnancy (IA) or continuously throughout pregnancy and 15 days after delivery (IB). Group II rats received 1.5 ml/day of distilled water (containing levetiracetam) either during pregnancy (IIA) or during pregnancy plus 15 days postpartum (IIB). At the end of the work, blood samples were taken from the adult rats, body weight of different groups were recorded, and then, their liver was subjected for histological and morphometric analysis. Levetiracetam treatment showed reduction in the body weight of adult rats and their offspring and pathological changes in their liver. These changes were in the form of distortion of the hepatic architecture, cytoplasmic vacuolation, nuclear changes, and swollen mitochondria with loss of their cristae. Such changes were proved by alteration in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) enzyme levels of the liver. It is advised to monitor the liver functions continuously when using levetiracetam.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safaa M H Abdelaziz
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Egypt
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17
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Shen C, Shao W, Wang W, Sun H, Wang X, Geng K, Wang X, Xie H. Physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling of levetiracetam to predict the exposure in hepatic and renal impairment and elderly populations. CPT Pharmacometrics Syst Pharmacol 2023; 12:1001-1015. [PMID: 37170680 PMCID: PMC10349187 DOI: 10.1002/psp4.12971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Levetiracetam (LEV) is an anti-epileptic drug approved for use in various populations. The pharmacokinetic (PK) behavior of LEV may be altered in the elderly and patients with renal and hepatic impairment. Thus, dosage adjustment is required. This study was conducted to investigate how the physiologically-based PK (PBPK) model describes the PKs of LEV in adult and elderly populations, as well as to predict the PKs of LEV in patients with renal and hepatic impairment in both populations. The whole-body PBPK models were developed using the reported physicochemical properties of LEV and clinical data. The models were validated using data from clinical studies with different dose ranges and different routes and intervals of administration. The fit performance of the models was assessed by comparing predicted and observed blood concentration data and PK parameters. It is recommended that the doses be reduced to ~70%, 60%, and 45% of the adult dose for the mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment populations and ~95%, 80%, and 57% of the adult dose for the Child Pugh-A (CP-A), Child Pugh-B (CP-B), and Child Pugh-C (CP-C) hepatic impairment populations, respectively. No dose adjustment is required for the healthy elderly population, but dose reduction is required for the elderly with organ dysfunction accordingly, on a scale similar to that of adults. A PBPK model of LEV was successfully developed to optimize dosing regimens for special populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaozhuang Shen
- Anhui Provincial Center for Drug Clinical EvaluationYijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuAnhuiChina
| | - Wenxin Shao
- Anhui Provincial Center for Drug Clinical EvaluationYijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuAnhuiChina
| | - Wenhui Wang
- Anhui Provincial Center for Drug Clinical EvaluationYijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuAnhuiChina
| | - Hua Sun
- Anhui Provincial Center for Drug Clinical EvaluationYijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuAnhuiChina
| | - Xiaohu Wang
- Anhui Provincial Center for Drug Clinical EvaluationYijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuAnhuiChina
| | - Kuo Geng
- Anhui Provincial Center for Drug Clinical EvaluationYijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuAnhuiChina
| | - Xingwen Wang
- Anhui Provincial Center for Drug Clinical EvaluationYijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuAnhuiChina
| | - Haitang Xie
- Anhui Provincial Center for Drug Clinical EvaluationYijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical CollegeWuhuAnhuiChina
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18
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Singh G, Sander JW. The case for levetiracetam to be included in essential medicine lists. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. SOUTHEAST ASIA 2023; 14:100211. [PMID: 37492413 PMCID: PMC10363496 DOI: 10.1016/j.lansea.2023.100211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Gagandeep Singh
- Department of Neurology, Dayanand Medical College & Hospital, Ludhiana, India
- Department of Clinical & Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
| | - Josemir W. Sander
- Department of Clinical & Experimental Epilepsy, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede 2103 SW, the Netherlands
- Neurology Department, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 61004, China
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Moreira FDL, Benzi JRDL, Pinto L, Thomaz MDL, Duarte G, Lanchote VL. Optimizing Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in Pregnant Women: A Critical Literature Review. Ther Drug Monit 2023; 45:159-172. [PMID: 36127797 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000001039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than 90% of pregnant women take at least one drug during pregnancy. Drug dose adjustments during pregnancy are sometimes necessary due to various pregnancy-induced physiological alterations frequently associated with lower plasma concentrations. However, the clinical relevance or benefits of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in pregnant women have not been specifically studied. Clinical pharmacokinetic studies in pregnant women are incredibly challenging for many reasons. Despite this, regulatory agencies have made efforts to encourage the inclusion of this population in clinical trials to achieve more information on the pharmacotherapy of pregnant women. This review aims to provide support for TDM recommendations and dose adjustments in pregnant women. METHODS The search was conducted after a predetermined strategy on PubMed and Scopus databases using the MeSH term "pregnancy" alongside other terms such as "Pregnancy and dose adjustment," "Pregnancy and therapeutic drug monitoring," "Pregnancy and PBPK," "Pregnancy and pharmacokinetics," and "Pregnancy and physiological changes." RESULTS The main information on TDM in pregnant women is available for antiepileptics, antipsychotics, antidepressants, antibiotics, antimalarials, and oncologic and immunosuppressive drugs. CONCLUSIONS More data are needed to support informed benefit-risk decision making for the administration of drugs to pregnant women. TDM and/or pharmacokinetic studies could ensure that pregnant women receive an adequate dosage of an active drug. Mechanistic modeling approaches potentially could increase our knowledge about the pharmacotherapy of this special population, and they could be used to better design dosage regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda de Lima Moreira
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Food Science and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo; and
| | - Jhohann Richard de Lima Benzi
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Food Science and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo; and
| | - Leonardo Pinto
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Food Science and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo; and
| | - Matheus de Lucca Thomaz
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Food Science and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo; and
| | - Geraldo Duarte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vera Lucia Lanchote
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Food Science and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo; and
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20
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Chen J, You X, Wu W, Guo G, Lin R, Ke M, Huang P, Lin C. Application of PBPK modeling in predicting maternal and fetal pharmacokinetics of levetiracetam during pregnancy. Eur J Pharm Sci 2023; 181:106349. [PMID: 36496167 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2022.106349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Levetiracetam is currently being used to treat epilepsy in pregnant women. The plasma concentration of levetiracetam drops sharply during pregnancy, and the inability of pregnant women to maintain therapeutic concentrations can lead to seizures. This study aimed to predict the changes in fetal and maternal plasma exposure to levetiracetam during pregnancy and provide advice on dose adjustment. The physiology-based pharmacokinetics (PBPK) model was developed using PK-Sim and Mobi software, and validated following comparison of the observed plasma concentration and pharmacokinetic parameters. The levetiracetam PBPK model for mother and the fetus at various stages of pregnancy was successfully established and verified. Predictions indicated that the area under the steady-state concentration-time curve for levetiracetam decreased to 83, 62, and 67% of baseline values in the first, second, and third trimesters, respectively. Based on PBPK predictions, the recommended dose of levetiracetam is 1.2, 1.6, and 1.5 times the baseline dose in the first, second, and third trimesters, respectively, not exceeding 4000 mg/day in the third trimester due to fetal safety. The levetiracetam PBPK model for pregnancy was successfully developed and validated, and could provide alternative levetiracetam dosing regimens across the stages of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiarui Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou 350005, PR China
| | - Xiang You
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou 350005, PR China
| | - Wanhong Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou 350005, PR China
| | - Guimu Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou 350005, PR China
| | - Rongfang Lin
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou 350005, PR China
| | - Meng Ke
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou 350005, PR China
| | - Pinfang Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou 350005, PR China
| | - Cuihong Lin
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou 350005, PR China.
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Abu Dayyih W, Layth R, Hailat M, Alkhawaja B, Al Tamimi L, Zakaraya Z, Aburumman A, Al Dmour N, Saadh MJ, Al-Matubsi H, Aldalaen SM. Effect of date molasses on levetiracetam pharmacokinetics in healthy rats. Sci Rep 2023; 13:758. [PMID: 36641484 PMCID: PMC9840612 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-28074-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Twelve healthy eight-week-old male Wistar rats weighing 200 g were used. Rats were chosen randomly, and their tails were identified and separated into cages/groups. The first group received an oral dose of 11.5 mg of levetiracetam in 5 mL of water, and the second group was given date syrup (250 g mixed with 250 mL water) for seven days, then 11.5 mg LEV in 5 mL water on day 7. One week of preadministered date molasses significantly decreased levetiracetam pharmacokinetic parameters in rats, such as Cmax (72 vs. 14 ng/mL, p = 0.01), Tmax (1.78 vs. 0.44 h, p < 0.001), and AUC (880 vs. 258 ng.h/mL, p < 0.001). This decrease in plasma levetiracetam levels caused by date molasses could be attributed to decreased levetiracetam absorption. On the other hand, the current study discovered that rats given date molasses for a week had a reduced rate and extent of absorption. As a result, date molasses might increase the risk of epileptic seizures in oral LEV-treated ones.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raghad Layth
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Petra, Amman, Jordan
| | - Mohammad Hailat
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Bayan Alkhawaja
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Petra, Amman, Jordan
| | | | - Zainab Zakaraya
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Aseel Aburumman
- Pharmacological and Diagnostic Research Centre, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman, Jordan
| | | | - Mohamed J Saadh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Middle East University, Amman, 11831, Jordan
| | - Hisham Al-Matubsi
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Petra, Amman, Jordan
| | - Saed M Aldalaen
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mutah University, Al-Karak, Jordan
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Schelhaas M, Wegner I, Edens M, Wammes-Van Der Heijden E, Touw D, Ter Horst P. Association of Levetiracetam Concentration With Seizure Frequency in Pregnant Women With Epilepsy. Neurology 2023; 100:e172-e181. [PMID: 36257713 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000201348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Pharmacologic treatment of epilepsy in pregnant women is balancing between risks for the mother and fetus. Levetiracetam (LEV) is considered to be safe during pregnancy because of its low teratogenic potential and lack of drug-drug interaction with other antiseizure medications (ASMs). Recent studies have shown decline of ASM concentrations during pregnancy because of physiologically based pharmacokinetic changes. In this study, we established this decrease in LEV concentration during pregnancy. In addition, we aimed at investigating the effect of the low LEV levels during pregnancy and developing a target value for the level during pregnancy. METHODS Pregnant patients using levetiracetam were studied in this retrospective cohort study. Blood samples were monthly collected through venous puncture or the dried blood spot method. ASM serum concentrations were determined at least 6 months before conception and for each month of pregnancy. Seizure frequency and ASM dosages during pregnancy were obtained from patient records. Patients were divided into 2 groups: a seizure-free group and a non-seizure-free group, which contained pregnancies in which the mother had experienced an epileptic seizure more than 12 months and less than 12 months before pregnancy, respectively. RESULTS We found decreased concentration/dose ratios in 29 pregnancies throughout all months of pregnancy. In the non-seizure-free group, it was found that low LEV concentrations were associated with seizure increase frequency (p = 0.022). For this group, the cutoff value with the highest sum of sensitivity and specificity was 0.466. DISCUSSION All in all, we recommend therapeutic drug monitoring for all pregnant patients on LEV as the concentrations of LEV significantly decrease throughout most months of pregnancy. However, this decrease in LEV concentration was only significantly correlated with seizure deterioration in patients who had a seizure in the year preceding the pregnancy. Therefore, we suggest more careful monitoring of non-seizure-free patients as they are at higher risk for experiencing an increase of seizure frequency. For this group, we advise physicians to keep LEV concentration above 65% of the preconceptional concentration. For seizure-free patients, we recommend an LEV threshold value of approximately 46% of the preconceptional concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meike Schelhaas
- From the Isala (M.S.B., P.T.H.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Zwolle, The Netherlands; Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (M.S.B., I.W.), Zwolle, The Netherlands; Isala (M.E.), Isala Academy, Zwolle, The Netherlands; Viecuri (E.W.-V.D.H.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Venlo, The Netherlands; and University of Groningen (P.D.P.), University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Ilse Wegner
- From the Isala (M.S.B., P.T.H.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Zwolle, The Netherlands; Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (M.S.B., I.W.), Zwolle, The Netherlands; Isala (M.E.), Isala Academy, Zwolle, The Netherlands; Viecuri (E.W.-V.D.H.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Venlo, The Netherlands; and University of Groningen (P.D.P.), University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Mireille Edens
- From the Isala (M.S.B., P.T.H.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Zwolle, The Netherlands; Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (M.S.B., I.W.), Zwolle, The Netherlands; Isala (M.E.), Isala Academy, Zwolle, The Netherlands; Viecuri (E.W.-V.D.H.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Venlo, The Netherlands; and University of Groningen (P.D.P.), University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth Wammes-Van Der Heijden
- From the Isala (M.S.B., P.T.H.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Zwolle, The Netherlands; Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (M.S.B., I.W.), Zwolle, The Netherlands; Isala (M.E.), Isala Academy, Zwolle, The Netherlands; Viecuri (E.W.-V.D.H.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Venlo, The Netherlands; and University of Groningen (P.D.P.), University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Daniel Touw
- From the Isala (M.S.B., P.T.H.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Zwolle, The Netherlands; Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (M.S.B., I.W.), Zwolle, The Netherlands; Isala (M.E.), Isala Academy, Zwolle, The Netherlands; Viecuri (E.W.-V.D.H.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Venlo, The Netherlands; and University of Groningen (P.D.P.), University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Peter Ter Horst
- From the Isala (M.S.B., P.T.H.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Zwolle, The Netherlands; Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (M.S.B., I.W.), Zwolle, The Netherlands; Isala (M.E.), Isala Academy, Zwolle, The Netherlands; Viecuri (E.W.-V.D.H.), Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Venlo, The Netherlands; and University of Groningen (P.D.P.), University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Groningen, the Netherlands
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, LNU B, Priye S, Prakash J. Preemptive Levetiracetam Decreases Postoperative Pain: A Double-Blind, Randomised, Control Trial. Cureus 2023; 15:e33281. [PMID: 36741623 PMCID: PMC9892605 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.33281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Previously many studies have found the use of anti-epileptic drugs such as pregabalin, carbamazepine, and gabapentin in pain management. In addition, levetiracetam (LEV), an effective anti-epileptic drug, has shown analgesic effects in animal models. We aimed to evaluate the effect of oral LEV as pre-emptive analgesia in patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy under general anaesthesia and postoperative fentanyl requirements. Material and methods Forty-two patients of the American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) grade I and II of either gender posted for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgery were included in this double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study. Patients were divided into two equal groups of 21 each to receive either tablet LEV 500 mg or a matching placebo tablet, given 1 hour before surgery. Postoperative pain was assessed by a visual analogue scale (0-100 mm), where 0 meant no pain and 100, worst pain. In addition, patients received IV fentanyl as rescue analgesia during the first 24 hours of the postoperative period. Results Nineteen patients in the LEV group and 20 in the placebo group completed the study. Patients in the LEV group had significantly lower pain scores at all time intervals except 0 hours and reduced fentanyl consumption postoperatively in the first 24 hours (p<0.05). Side effects were comparable in both groups. Conclusion A single, preoperative dose of oral LEV 500 mg significantly decreases post-surgical pain and fentanyl demand as rescue analgesia in elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
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Boucher KS, Dedhia N, Bommisetty D. Levetiracetam-Induced Rhabdomyolysis Following Medication Re-Initiation. Cureus 2022; 14:e30042. [DOI: 10.7759/cureus.30042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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Tekin U, Tekin E, Uçar HN. Irritability and its relationship with psychosocial symptoms and quality of life in adolescents with epilepsy receiving levetiracetam therapy: A case-control study. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 135:108877. [PMID: 35985165 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Levetiracetam, a widely used anticonvulsant drug in children and adolescents, has been associated with irritability, psychosocial symptoms, and low quality of life, which are also influenced by other epilepsy variables. PURPOSE The objective of this study was to investigate the level of treatment-related irritability in adolescents receiving levetiracetam, and to evaluate the relationship between irritability levels and psychosocial symptoms, and quality of life. METHODS A cross-sectional, case-control study was conducted. Consecutive adolescent patients with epilepsy aged 11-17 years with partial or generalized seizures, treated with either levetiracetam or valproic acid for at least 6 months, and healthy controls were recruited. The Affective Reactivity Index parent report and self-report, Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory-Psychosocial subscale were utilized to assess irritability, psychosocial symptoms, and functioning. RESULTS A total of 120 participants were analyzed; 33 patients in the LEV group, 45 patients in the VPA group, and 42 healthy controls. Both self and parent report irritability levels of the LEV group were found to be significantly higher than those of healthy controls. The irritability levels of the LEV and VPA groups were not statistically different, but still the LEV group had higher irritability levels on both scales. In the LEV group, irritability was positively correlated with behavioral, emotional, and attention/hyperactivity problems, and also negatively correlated with psychosocial quality of life. CONCLUSION Adolescents with epilepsy using LEV have a high level of irritability and this is associated with some psychosocial symptoms and poor quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uğur Tekin
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Health Sciences, Bakirkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Emine Tekin
- Department of Child Neurology, Giresun University Medical School, Giresun, Turkey
| | - Halit Necmi Uçar
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Selçuk University Medical School, Konya, Turkey
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de Toledo M, de la Fuente E, Ramos C, Ferreiros-Martinez R, Muro I, Vieira A, de Toledo MP, Lagares A, Sobrado M, Ovejero-Benito MC. Extensive pharmacokinetic variability of Levetiracetam. ¿Are doctors aware? Epilepsy Res 2022; 187:107029. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2022.107029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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D'Onofrio G, Riva A, Amadori E, Lattanzi S, Rose K, Verrotti A, Striano P. Pharmacokinetic considerations surrounding the use of levetiracetam for seizure prophylaxis in neurocritical care - an overview. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2022; 18:575-585. [PMID: 36006892 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2022.2117606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Levetiracetam (LEV) is one of the most widely used anti-seizure medications (ASMs) in clinical practice. This is due both to a different mechanism of action when compared to other ASMs and its easy handling. Indeed, because of its interesting pharmacokinetic properties, it is often used outside of the labelled indications, notably in the neurocritical setting as prophylaxis of epileptic seizures. AREAS COVERED A literature search was conducted and the most relevant studies on the pharmacokinetic properties of LEV were selected by two independent investigators. Current evidence on the use of ASM prophylaxis in the neurocritical setting was also reviewed, highlighting and discussing the strengths and limits of LEV as drug of choice for anti-epileptic prophylaxis in this scenario. EXPERT OPINION LEV has a "near-ideal" pharmacokinetic profile, which makes it an attractive drug for ASM prophylaxis in neurocritical care. However, current recommendations restrict ASMs prophylaxis to very selected circumstances and the role of LEV is marginal. Moreover, studies are generally designed to compare LEV versus phenytoin, whereas studies comparing LEV versus placebo are lacking. Further randomized trials will be needed to better elucidate LEV utility and its neuroprotective role in the neurocritical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca D'Onofrio
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto "Giannina Gaslini", Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Antonella Riva
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto "Giannina Gaslini", Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Amadori
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto "Giannina Gaslini", Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Simona Lattanzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Neurological Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Conca 71, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Klaus Rose
- klausrose Consulting, Riehen, Switzerland
| | - Alberto Verrotti
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06156 Perugia, Italy
| | - Pasquale Striano
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto "Giannina Gaslini", Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy
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Effect of Nonadherence on Levetiracetam Pharmacokinetics and Remedial Dose Recommendations Using Monte Carlo Simulations. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet 2022; 47:667-676. [PMID: 35761145 DOI: 10.1007/s13318-022-00774-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Nonadherence to levetiracetam (LEV) use can result in subtherapeutic concentrations and increase the risk of the occurrence of seizures. The impact of missing LEV doses on its pharmacokinetics and evidence of the appropriate remedial dose is lacking. This study has determined the influence of missed LEV doses on its pharmacokinetics and has explored the appropriate remedial dosage regimens. METHODS Monte Carlo simulation was used to assess the impacts of different remedial dosage regimens on LEV concentrations. Simulated LEV concentrations outside the individual therapeutic range were calculated for the compliance scenario and for each of the remedial dosage regimens. The percentage of deviation from the full compliance scenario was also calculated. The regimen with the lowest percentage of deviation was considered the most appropriate. RESULTS The suitable LEV remedial dose varied across the delay times. For one missed dose, a remedial regimen with a regular dose followed by the usual dose was suitable for a delay time of less than 6 h, while a replacement with a regular dose followed by a partial dose appeared to be appropriate for a delay time of 6 h and longer. This was justified based on the concerns of LEV toxicity when the remedial dose is close to the next scheduled dose. For two consecutive missed doses, a remedial dose with one and a half of the regular dose was suitable if the gap between that and the next dose was greater than 6 h. CONCLUSIONS The appropriate remedial dosage regimen for one and two consecutive missed doses of LEV have been proposed. These remedial regimens, however, should be applied with clinicians' judgment based on the clinical status of the patients.
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Tilen R, Paioni P, Goetschi AN, Goers R, Seibert I, Müller D, Bielicki JA, Berger C, Krämer SD, Meyer zu Schwabedissen HE. Pharmacogenetic Analysis of Voriconazole Treatment in Children. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14061289. [PMID: 35745860 PMCID: PMC9227859 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14061289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Voriconazole is among the first-line antifungal drugs to treat invasive fungal infections in children and known for its pronounced inter- and intraindividual pharmacokinetic variability. Polymorphisms in genes involved in the metabolism and transport of voriconazole are thought to influence serum concentrations and eventually the therapeutic outcome. To investigate the impact of these genetic variants and other covariates on voriconazole trough concentrations, we performed a retrospective data analysis, where we used medication data from 36 children suffering from invasive fungal infections treated with voriconazole. Data were extracted from clinical information systems with the new infrastructure SwissPKcdw, and linear mixed effects modelling was performed using R. Samples from 23 children were available for DNA extraction, from which 12 selected polymorphism were genotyped by real-time PCR. 192 (49.1%) of 391 trough serum concentrations measured were outside the recommended range. Voriconazole trough concentrations were influenced by polymorphisms within the metabolizing enzymes CYP2C19 and CYP3A4, and within the drug transporters ABCC2 and ABCG2, as well as by the co-medications ciprofloxacin, levetiracetam, and propranolol. In order to prescribe an optimal drug dosage, pre-emptive pharmacogenetic testing and careful consideration of co-medications in addition to therapeutic drug monitoring might improve voriconazole treatment outcome of children with invasive fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romy Tilen
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, Steinwiesstrasse 75, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland; (P.P.); (C.B.)
- Biopharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland; (R.G.); (I.S.)
- Correspondence: (R.T.); (H.E.M.z.S.)
| | - Paolo Paioni
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, Steinwiesstrasse 75, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland; (P.P.); (C.B.)
| | - Aljoscha N. Goetschi
- Biopharmacy, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 4, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland; (A.N.G.); (S.D.K.)
| | - Roland Goers
- Biopharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland; (R.G.); (I.S.)
| | - Isabell Seibert
- Biopharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland; (R.G.); (I.S.)
| | - Daniel Müller
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry, University Hospital Zurich, Rämistr. 100, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Julia A. Bielicki
- Paediatric Research Centre, University Children’s Hospital Basel, Basel, Spitalstrasse 33, 4056 Basel, Switzerland;
| | - Christoph Berger
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Children’s Hospital Zurich, Steinwiesstrasse 75, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland; (P.P.); (C.B.)
| | - Stefanie D. Krämer
- Biopharmacy, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 4, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland; (A.N.G.); (S.D.K.)
| | - Henriette E. Meyer zu Schwabedissen
- Biopharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland; (R.G.); (I.S.)
- Correspondence: (R.T.); (H.E.M.z.S.)
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Artul T, Henig I, Nassar L, Yehudai-Ofir D, Scherb I, Lurie Y, Efrati E, Zuckerman T, Kurnik D. Decreased Systemic Busulfan Exposure After Oral Dosing With Concomitant Levetiracetam Compared With Phenytoin. Ther Drug Monit 2022; 44:414-418. [PMID: 34739424 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000000938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Busulfan (Bu) conditioning used in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation may induce seizures, and prophylactic antiepileptic treatment is recommended. Following updated guidelines, in August 2019, the adult hematopoietic stem cell transplantation department of the Rambam Health Care Campus (Haifa, Israel) switched the antiepileptic prophylaxis protocol from phenytoin to oral levetiracetam during oral Bu conditioning. The aim of this study was to compare the pharmacokinetic parameters of Bu after oral dosing between patients receiving phenytoin and those receiving levetiracetam prophylaxis. METHODS This study was a retrospective cohort study in adults undergoing myoablative conditioning with oral Bu between August 2018 and August 2020. Bu pharmacokinetic parameters (AUC0-6, C0, Cmax, and Tmax) were compared in patients treated with phenytoin comedication (during the year before the change in policy) and levetiracetam comedication (during the year after the change). Potential confounders were accounted for including age, azole comedication, and body weight. RESULTS There were no significant differences in demographic and clinical parameters or weight-corrected Bu dose between the phenytoin group (n = 28) and the levetiracetam group (n = 25). There was no difference in the rate of voriconazole comedication, but fluconazole was more common in the phenytoin group (P = 0.026). The median AUC0-6 was significantly lower in the levetiracetam group (949 μM*min; IQR = 806 to 1101 μM*min) than in the phenytoin group (1208 μM*min; IQR = 1087 to 1389 μM*min; P < 0.001). This is a clinically significant difference of 258 μM*min (21%). Azole use was not associated with Bu exposure. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that, after treatment with oral Bu, oral levetiracetam comedication is associated with reduced systemic exposure compared with phenytoin comedication, possibly because of decreased bioavailability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tareq Artul
- Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Hematology Department, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Israel Henig
- Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, Hematology Department, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel; and
| | - Laila Nassar
- Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Hematology Department, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israeli Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Dana Yehudai-Ofir
- Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, Hematology Department, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel; and
| | - Inna Scherb
- Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Hematology Department, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yael Lurie
- Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Hematology Department, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israeli Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Edna Efrati
- Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Hematology Department, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
| | - Tsila Zuckerman
- Adult Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, Hematology Department, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel; and
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israeli Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Daniel Kurnik
- Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Hematology Department, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israeli Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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Evaluating Therapeutic Equivalence of Generic and Original Levetiracetam in Patients with Epilepsy: A Retrospective Study. Neurol Int 2022; 14:271-283. [PMID: 35324578 PMCID: PMC8953522 DOI: 10.3390/neurolint14010022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The brand interchangeability of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) is a topic of debate, especially regarding their therapeutic equivalence. This study evaluates the efficacy and tolerability of generic levetiracetam compared to the brand-name equivalent in a routine clinical setting. We conducted a retrospective study, examining patients with stable seizure frequency who received generic levetiracetam after the brand-name drug. During the six-month substitution period, changes in seizure frequency, hospitalization due to seizure exacerbation, adverse events, composite outcomes related to adjusting the AED dosage, and switching back to original levetiracetam were analyzed. Seventy-five patients were enrolled; the majority (85.3%) had focal onset seizures, and almost half (49.3%) had refractory epilepsy. Six months after the substitution, the mean seizure frequency per month was not significantly different (3.15 ± 14.47 vs. 2.77 ± 11.41; p = 0.970). In patients with controlled seizures before the change, the seizure frequency increased significantly (0.56 ± 1.83 vs. 0.03 ± 0.16; p = 0.012). Adverse events occurred in six patients. We have observed recurrent seizures or adverse events from 14 days after the transition. The original drug return rates due to recurrent seizures and adverse events were 5.3% and 1.3%, respectively. Generic levetiracetam might not show therapeutic equivalence to the original molecule, especially in patients adequately controlled by the brand-name drug.
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WHAT IS THE THERAPEUTIC REFERENCE RANGE FOR LEVETIRACETAM? Ther Drug Monit 2022; 44:363-365. [DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000000972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Barnett RR, Harbert AL, Pajer HB, Wabulya A, Jewells VL, Elton SW, Quinsey CS. Postoperative seizures following endoscopic third ventriculostomy and choroid plexus cauterization: a case series. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2022; 29:178-184. [PMID: 34715649 DOI: 10.3171/2021.8.peds21169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this study, the authors sought to investigate variables associated with postoperative seizures following endoscopic third ventriculostomy and choroid plexus cauterization (ETV/CPC) for treatment of pediatric hydrocephalus. METHODS A retrospective analysis of 37 patients who underwent ETV/CPC for treatment of hydrocephalus at an academic medical center from September 2016 to March 2021 was conducted. Demographics, etiology of hydrocephalus, operative details, electroencephalography (EEG) data, MRI findings, need for subsequent procedures, perioperative laboratory tests, medical history, and presence of clinical postoperative seizures were collected. Postoperative seizures were defined as clinical seizures within 24 hours of surgery. Eighteen patients received levetiracetam intraoperatively as well as over the next 7 days postoperatively for seizure prophylaxis. RESULTS Of 37 included patients, 9 (24%) developed clinical seizures within 24 hours after surgery, 5 of whom subsequently had electroclinical seizures captured on video-EEG. The clinical seizures in 4 of those 5 patients (80%) may have been associated with the hemisphere of the brain through which the endoscope was introduced. The median corrected age of the cohort was 3.4 months. The median corrected age of patients who did not develop postoperative seizures was 2.3 months compared with 0.7 months for patients who did develop postoperative seizures (p > 0.99). Postoperative seizures occurred in 43% (3/7) of prenatally repaired myelomeningocele patients versus 29% (2/7) of postnatally repaired myelomeningocele patients. Of the 18 patients who received prophylactic levetiracetam, none (0%) developed postoperative seizures compared with 9 of the 19 patients (47%) who did not receive prophylactic levetiracetam (p = 0.014). CONCLUSIONS Postoperative seizures were recorded in 24% of the pediatric patients who underwent ETV/CPC for hydrocephalus, which is higher than previously reported rates in the literature of 5%. Since 80% of the postoperative electrographic seizures may have been associated with the hemisphere through which the endoscope was introduced, the surgical entry site may contribute to postoperative seizure development. In patients who received prophylactic perioperative levetiracetam, the postoperative seizure incidence dropped to 0% compared with 47% in those who did not receive prophylactic perioperative levetiracetam. This finding indicates that the use of prophylactic perioperative levetiracetam may be efficacious in the prevention of clinical seizures in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Randaline R Barnett
- 1Department of Neurological Surgery, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
| | - Allie L Harbert
- 2School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
| | - Hengameh B Pajer
- 3School of Osteopathic Medicine, Campbell University, Lillington
| | - Angela Wabulya
- 4Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill; and
| | - Valerie L Jewells
- 5Department of Radiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Scott W Elton
- 1Department of Neurological Surgery, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
| | - Carolyn S Quinsey
- 1Department of Neurological Surgery, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
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Sinha J, Karatza E, Gonzalez D. Physiologically-based pharmacokinetic modeling of oxcarbazepine and levetiracetam during adjunctive antiepileptic therapy in children and adolescents. CPT Pharmacometrics Syst Pharmacol 2022; 11:225-239. [PMID: 34816634 PMCID: PMC8846633 DOI: 10.1002/psp4.12750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxcarbazepine (OXZ) and levetiracetam (LEV) are two new generation anti‐epileptic drugs, often co‐administered in children with enzyme‐inducing antiepileptic drugs (EIAEDs). The anti‐epileptic effect of OXZ and LEV are linked to the exposure of OXZ’s active metabolite 10‐monohydroxy derivative (MHD) and (the parent) LEV, respectively. However, little is known about the confounding effect of age and EIAEDs on the pharmacokinetics (PKs) of MHD and LEV. To address this knowledge gap, physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling was performed in the PK‐Sim software using literature data from children greater than or equal to 2 years of age. Age‐related changes in clearance (CL) of MHD and LEV were characterized, both in the presence (group 1) and absence (group 2) of concomitant EIAEDs. The drug‐drug interaction effect of EIAEDs was estimated as the difference in CL estimates between groups 1 and 2. PBPK modeling suggests that bodyweight normalized CL (ml/min/kg) is higher in younger children than their older counterparts (i.e., due to an influence of age). Concomitant EIAEDs further increase MHD’s CL to a fixed extent of 25% at any age, but EIAEDs’ effect on LEV’s CL increases with age from 20% (at 2 years) to 30% (at adolescence). Simulations with the maximum recommended doses (MRDs) revealed that children between 2 and 4 years and greater than 4 years, who are not on EIAEDs, are at risk of exceeding the reference exposure range for OXZ and LEV, respectively. This analysis demonstrates the use of PBPK modeling in understanding the confounding effect of age and comedications on PKs in children and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaydeep Sinha
- Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, UNC School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Eleni Karatza
- Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Daniel Gonzalez
- Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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The Pharmacokinetics of Levetiracetam in Critically Ill Adult Patients: An Intensive Care Unit Clinical Study. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12031208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate levetiracetam pharmacokinetics in critically ill adult intensive care patients and to identify pathophysiological factors affecting its kinetics. Fourteen critically ill patients in an intensive care unit were enrolled in the study and received intravenous levetiracetam. Blood samples were collected at specific time points to determine the levetiracetam pharmacokinetics. Patient characteristics such as renal function, demographics, disease severity, organ dysfunction, and biochemical laboratory tests were evaluated for their influence on the kinetics of levetiracetam. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) had a statistically significant (p = 0.001) effect on levetiracetam clearance. None of the other patient characteristics had a statistically significant effect on the pharmacokinetics. Simulations of dosing regimens revealed that even typically administered doses of levetiracetam may result in significantly increased concentrations and risk of drug toxicity in patients with impaired renal function. The Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score differed significantly among the three groups with different epileptic activity (p = 0.034). The same groups also differed in terms of renal function (p = 0.031). Renal dysfunction should be considered when designing levetiracetam dosage. Patients with a low APACHE II score had the lowest risk of experiencing epileptic seizures.
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Determination of levetiracetam by GC-MS and effects of storage conditions and gastric digestive systems on drug samples. Bioanalysis 2022; 14:217-222. [PMID: 35014882 DOI: 10.4155/bio-2021-0258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Epilepsy is a neurologic condition that is occurs globally and is associated with various degrees of seizures. Levetiracetam is an approved drug that is commonly used to treat seizures in juvenile epileptic patients. Accurate quantification of the drug's active compound and determining its stability in the stomach after oral administration are important tasks that must be performed. Results & methodology: Levetiracetam was extracted from drug samples and quantified by gas chromatography mass spectrometry using calibration standards. Stability of levetiracetam was studied under various storage conditions and in simulated gastric conditions. The calibration plot determined for levetiracetam showed good linearity with a coefficient of determination value of 0.9991. The limits of detection and quantification were found to be 0.004 and 0.014 μg·ml-1, respectively. The structural integrity of levetiracetam did not change within a 4-h period under the simulated gastric conditions, and no significant degradation was observed for the different storage temperatures tested. Discussion & conclusion: An accurate and sensitive quantitative method was developed for the determination of levetiracetam in drug samples. The stability of the drug active compound was monitored under various storage and gastric conditions. The levetiracetam content determined in the drug samples were within ±10% of the value stated on the drug labels.
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Moon P, Ramteke S, Mahajan L. Rare Case of Reversible Polyneuropathy after Levetiracetam Overdose. Neurol India 2022; 69:1841-1843. [PMID: 34979704 DOI: 10.4103/0028-3886.333491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Parag Moon
- Department of Neurology, Government Medical College and Superspeciality Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sanjay Ramteke
- Department of Neurology, Government Medical College and Superspeciality Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
| | - Lalit Mahajan
- Department of Neurology, Government Medical College and Superspeciality Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
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The effect of levetiracetam treatment on survival in patients with glioblastoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neurooncol 2022; 156:257-267. [PMID: 34982371 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-021-03940-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Levetiracetam (LEV) is an anti-epileptic drug (AED) that sensitizes glioblastoma (GBM) to temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy by inhibiting O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) expression. Adding LEV to the standard of care (SOC) for GBM may improve TMZ efficacy. This study aimed to pool the existing evidence in the literature to quantify LEV's effect on GBM survival and characterize its safety profile to determine whether incorporating LEV into the SOC is warranted. METHOD A search of CINAHL, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science from inception to May 2021 was performed to identify relevant articles. Hazard ratios (HR), median overall survival, and adverse events were pooled using random-effect models. Meta-regression, funnel plots, and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale were utilized to identify sources of heterogeneity, bias, and statistical influence. RESULTS From 20 included studies, 5804 GBM patients underwent meta-analysis, of which 1923 (33%) were treated with LEV. Administration of LEV did not significantly improve survival in the entire patient population (HR 0.89, p = 0.094). Significant heterogeneity was observed during pooling of HRs (I2 = 75%, p < 0.01). Meta-regression determined that LEV treatment effect decreased with greater rates of MGMT methylation (RC = 0.03, p = 0.02) and increased with greater proportions of female patients (RC = - 0.05, p = 0.002). Concurrent LEV with the SOC for GBM did not increase odds of adverse events relative to other AEDs. CONCLUSIONS Levetiracetam treatment may not be effective for all GBM patients. Instead, LEV may be better suited for treating specific molecular profiles of GBM. Further studies are necessary to identify optimal GBM candidates for LEV.
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Pal R, Singh K, Khan SA, Chawla P, Kumar B, Akhtar MJ. Reactive metabolites of the anticonvulsant drugs and approaches to minimize the adverse drug reaction. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 226:113890. [PMID: 34628237 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Several generations of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are available in the market for the treatment of seizures, but these are amalgamated with acute to chronic side effects. The most common side effects of AEDs are dose-related, but some are idiosyncratic adverse drug reactions (ADRs) that transpire due to the formation of reactive metabolite (RM) after the bioactivation process. Because of the adverse reactions patients usually discontinue the medication in between the treatment. The AEDs such as valproic acid, lamotrigine, phenytoin etc., can be categorized under such types because they form the RM which may prevail with life-threatening adverse effects or immune-mediated reactions. Hepatotoxicity, teratogenicity, cutaneous hypersensitivity, dizziness, addiction, serum sickness reaction, renal calculi, metabolic acidosis are associated with the metabolites of drugs such as arene oxide, N-desmethyldiazepam, 2-(1-hydroxyethyl)-2-methylsuccinimide, 2-(sulphamoy1acetyl)-phenol, E-2-en-VPA and 4-en-VPA and carbamazepine-10,11-epoxide, etc. The major toxicities are associated with the moieties that are either capable of forming RM or the functional groups may itself be too reactive prior to the metabolism. These functional groups or fragment structures are typically known as structural alerts or toxicophores. Therefore, minimizing the bioactivation potential of lead structures in the early phases of drug discovery by a modification to low-risk drug molecules is a priority for the pharmaceutical companies. Additionally, excellent potency and pharmacokinetic (PK) behaviour help in ensuring that appropriate (low dose) candidate drugs progress into the development phase. The current review discusses about RMs in the anticonvulsant drugs along with their mechanism vis-a-vis research efforts that have been taken to minimize the toxic effects of AEDs therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Pal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, ISF College of Pharmacy, Ghal Kalan, Ferozpur, G.T. Road, Moga, 142001, Punjab, India
| | - Karanvir Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, ISF College of Pharmacy, Ghal Kalan, Ferozpur, G.T. Road, Moga, 142001, Punjab, India
| | - Shah Alam Khan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, National University of Science and Technology, PO 620, PC 130, Azaiba, Bousher, Muscat, Oman
| | - Pooja Chawla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, ISF College of Pharmacy, Ghal Kalan, Ferozpur, G.T. Road, Moga, 142001, Punjab, India
| | - Bhupinder Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, ISF College of Pharmacy, Ghal Kalan, Ferozpur, G.T. Road, Moga, 142001, Punjab, India.
| | - Md Jawaid Akhtar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, ISF College of Pharmacy, Ghal Kalan, Ferozpur, G.T. Road, Moga, 142001, Punjab, India; Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, National University of Science and Technology, PO 620, PC 130, Azaiba, Bousher, Muscat, Oman.
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Bou Nasif M, Varade S, Koubeissi MZ. Multifocal myoclonus as a presentation of levetiracetam toxicity. Clin Neurophysiol Pract 2021; 6:281-284. [PMID: 34877439 PMCID: PMC8632708 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnp.2021.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Levetiracetam (LEV) is a widely used antiseizure medication, but LEV toxicity is not commonly reported. We report a patient with chronic kidney disease who developed multifocal myoclonus after treatment with LEV. The findings suggest the possibility of an inverted U-shaped dose–response of the anti-myoclonic effect of LEV.
Background Levetiracetam (LEV) is widely used for treatment of focal and myoclonic seizures, but reports of LEV toxicity are scarce. Here, we report a rare case of multifocal myoclonus due to LEV toxicity in a patient with chronic renal insufficiency. Case presentation A 52-year-old woman with history of chronic kidney disease was admitted to the ICU for sedation and intubation after a cardiac arrest. She developed nonconvulsive status epilepticus that resolved after administration of propofol while receiving LEV 1500 mg twice a day. After holding the propofol infusion, the patient started having multifocal myoclonic jerks, documented on video-EEG recordings with a supratherapeutic level of LEV. After discontinuation of LEV, the myoclonus resolved. Conclusion This is a unique manifestation of LEV toxicity, which has been scarce in the literature. It suggests an inverted U-shaped dose–response of the antimyoclonic effect of LEV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Bou Nasif
- Department of Neurology, George-Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Shweta Varade
- Department of Neurology, George-Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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Bilbao-Meseguer I, Barrasa H, Asín-Prieto E, Alarcia-Lacalle A, Rodríguez-Gascón A, Maynar J, Sánchez-Izquierdo JÁ, Balziskueta G, Griffith MSB, Quilez Trasobares N, Solinís MÁ, Isla A. Population Pharmacokinetics of Levetiracetam and Dosing Evaluation in Critically Ill Patients with Normal or Augmented Renal Function. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13101690. [PMID: 34683983 PMCID: PMC8540413 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13101690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Levetiracetam is a broad-spectrum antiepileptic drug commonly used in intensive care units (ICUs). The objective of this study is to evaluate the adequacy of levetiracetam dosing in patients with normal or augmented renal clearance (ARC) admitted to the ICU by population modelling and simulation. A multicentre prospective study including twenty-seven critically ill patients with urinary creatinine clearance (CrCl) > 50 mL/min and treated with levetiracetam was developed. Levetiracetam plasma concentrations were best described by a two-compartment model. The parameter estimates and relative standard errors (%) were clearance (CL) 3.5 L/h (9%), central volume of distribution (V1) 20.7 L (18%), intercompartmental clearance 31.9 L/h (22%), and peripheral volume of distribution 33.5 L (13%). Interindividual variability estimates were, for the CL, 32.7% (21%) and, for V1, 56.1% (29%). The CrCl showed significant influence over CL. Simulations showed that the administration of at least 500 mg every 8 h or 1000 mg every 12 h are needed in patients with normal renal function. Higher doses (1500 or 2000 mg, every 8 h) are needed in patients with ARC. Critically ill patients with normal or ARC treated with levetiracetam could be at high risk of being underdosed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Idoia Bilbao-Meseguer
- Department of Pharmacy, Cruces University Hospital, Plaza de Cruces 12, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain;
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de Investigación Lascaray Ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (A.R.-G.)
| | - Helena Barrasa
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Bioaraba, 01009 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (H.B.); (J.M.); (G.B.)
- Intensive Care Unit, Araba University Hospital, Osakidetza Basque Health Service, 01009 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Eduardo Asín-Prieto
- Inserm U1070: Pharmacologie des Anti-Infectieux, Pôle Biologie Santé, Université de Poitiers, Bâtiment B36, 1 Rue Georges Bonnet, 86022 Poitiers, France;
| | - Ana Alarcia-Lacalle
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de Investigación Lascaray Ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (A.R.-G.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Bioaraba, Microbiology, Infectious Disease, Antimicrobial Agents, and Gene Therapy, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Alicia Rodríguez-Gascón
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de Investigación Lascaray Ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (A.R.-G.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Bioaraba, Microbiology, Infectious Disease, Antimicrobial Agents, and Gene Therapy, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Javier Maynar
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Bioaraba, 01009 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (H.B.); (J.M.); (G.B.)
- Intensive Care Unit, Araba University Hospital, Osakidetza Basque Health Service, 01009 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - José Ángel Sánchez-Izquierdo
- Intensive Care Unit, Doce de Octubre Hospital, Avda de Córdoba, s/n, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (J.Á.S.-I.); (M.S.-B.G.); (N.Q.T.)
| | - Goiatz Balziskueta
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Bioaraba, 01009 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (H.B.); (J.M.); (G.B.)
- Intensive Care Unit, Araba University Hospital, Osakidetza Basque Health Service, 01009 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - María Sánchez-Bayton Griffith
- Intensive Care Unit, Doce de Octubre Hospital, Avda de Córdoba, s/n, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (J.Á.S.-I.); (M.S.-B.G.); (N.Q.T.)
| | - Nerea Quilez Trasobares
- Intensive Care Unit, Doce de Octubre Hospital, Avda de Córdoba, s/n, 28041 Madrid, Spain; (J.Á.S.-I.); (M.S.-B.G.); (N.Q.T.)
| | - María Ángeles Solinís
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de Investigación Lascaray Ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (A.R.-G.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Bioaraba, Microbiology, Infectious Disease, Antimicrobial Agents, and Gene Therapy, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.Á.S.); (A.I.)
| | - Arantxa Isla
- Pharmacokinetic, Nanotechnology and Gene Therapy Group (PharmaNanoGene), Faculty of Pharmacy, Centro de Investigación Lascaray Ikergunea, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Paseo de la Universidad 7, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (A.R.-G.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Bioaraba, Microbiology, Infectious Disease, Antimicrobial Agents, and Gene Therapy, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.Á.S.); (A.I.)
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Dell'Aquila J, Soti V. Treating Status Epilepticus: Phenytoin Versus Levetiracetam. Cureus 2021; 13:e18515. [PMID: 34659919 PMCID: PMC8492029 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.18515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
For decades, phenytoin has been the drug of choice for the treatment of epilepsy but also the second-line treatment for status epilepticus (SE). However, newer antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) have emerged as safer alternatives for the suppression of seizures. Consequently, phenytoin has recently fallen under scrutiny in the research world, prompting many studies to compare its efficacy to these other drugs, most notably levetiracetam. Levetiracetam is a second-generation AED, which is gaining wide clinical use as the second-line agent in treating SE patients. This review focuses on several clinical studies that have directly compared the effectiveness of phenytoin and levetiracetam in suppressing SE seizure activity. Additionally, this review highlights several advantages of using levetiracetam over phenytoin in this clinical context.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Varun Soti
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Elmira, USA
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Ha C, Lee HS, Joo EY, Shon YM, Hong SB, Seo DW, Lee SY. Levetiracetam Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in a Large Cohort of Korean Epileptic Patients. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14080826. [PMID: 34451923 PMCID: PMC8401685 DOI: 10.3390/ph14080826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Levetiracetam is a new antiepileptic drug (AED) used for treating and preventing partial or generalized seizures. The usefulness of levetiracetam therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is related to inter- or intra-individual pharmacokinetic variability, drug interactions, and patient noncompliance. We aimed to investigate the levetiracetam TDM status in Korean epilepsy patients. Serum trough levetiracetam concentrations were measured using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry in 710 samples from 550 patients. The median (range) daily and weight-adjusted levetiracetam doses were 1500 (20–5000) mg and 25.5 (3.03–133.0) mg/kg, respectively. Patients on levetiracetam monotherapy constituted only 19.5% of the population, while 30.1% were on co-medication with valproate and 56.0% with enzyme-inducing AEDs (EIAEDs). Observed levetiracetam concentrations were widely distributed, ranging 0.8–95 mg/L, with a median of 17.3 mg/L. Levetiracetam concentrations were therapeutic, supra-therapeutic, and sub-therapeutic in 58.5% (n = 393), 11.6% (n = 78), and 29.9% (n = 201) of samples, respectively. There was a strong correlation between weight-adjusted levetiracetam dosage and concentrations (ρ = 0.6896, p < 0.0001). In this large-scale clinical study, a large inter-individual difference in levetiracetam pharmacokinetics was observed, and levetiracetam concentrations were influenced by EIAEDs. For individual dose adjustments and monitoring compliance, routine levetiracetam TDM is needed in epilepsy patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changhee Ha
- Samsung Medical Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Genetics, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06351, Korea; (C.H.); (H.-S.L.)
| | - Hyun-Seung Lee
- Samsung Medical Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Genetics, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06351, Korea; (C.H.); (H.-S.L.)
| | - Eun Yeon Joo
- Neuroscience Center, Samsung Medical Center, Department of Neurology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06351, Korea; (E.Y.J.); (Y.-M.S.); (S.B.H.)
| | - Young-Min Shon
- Neuroscience Center, Samsung Medical Center, Department of Neurology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06351, Korea; (E.Y.J.); (Y.-M.S.); (S.B.H.)
| | - Seung Bong Hong
- Neuroscience Center, Samsung Medical Center, Department of Neurology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06351, Korea; (E.Y.J.); (Y.-M.S.); (S.B.H.)
| | - Dae-Won Seo
- Neuroscience Center, Samsung Medical Center, Department of Neurology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06351, Korea; (E.Y.J.); (Y.-M.S.); (S.B.H.)
- Correspondence: (D.-W.S.); (S.-Y.L.); Tel.: +82-2-3410-3595 (D.-W.S.); +82-2-3410-1834 (S.-Y.L.); Fax: +82-2-3410-0052 (D.-W.S.); +82-2-3410-2719 (S.-Y.L.)
| | - Soo-Youn Lee
- Samsung Medical Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Genetics, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06351, Korea; (C.H.); (H.-S.L.)
- Samsung Medical Center, Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06351, Korea
- Correspondence: (D.-W.S.); (S.-Y.L.); Tel.: +82-2-3410-3595 (D.-W.S.); +82-2-3410-1834 (S.-Y.L.); Fax: +82-2-3410-0052 (D.-W.S.); +82-2-3410-2719 (S.-Y.L.)
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What Are the Predictors for Achieving Therapeutic Levetiracetam Serum Concentrations in Adult Neurological Patients? Ther Drug Monit 2021; 42:626-630. [PMID: 31977751 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000000731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging studies suggest that levetiracetam pharmacokinetics can be difficult to predict in certain special patient populations, including the elderly, critically ill patients, and pregnant women. OBJECTIVE To determine clinical characteristics that predict the attainment of target serum concentrations in a heterogeneous group of patients prescribed levetiracetam. METHODS A retrospective observational study was conducted in adult neurological patients prescribed levetiracetam for the treatment or prophylaxis of seizures. Serum samples were collected after steady-state was reached, with a trough/steady-state serum concentration between 6 and 20 mg/L considered therapeutic. Logistic regression was used to identify significant predictors associated with the attainment of therapeutic concentrations. RESULTS One-hundred thirty patients (63 male) were included. The median (interquartile ranges) serum trough/steady-state concentration (Cmin/ss) was 16.2 (9.8-26.1) mg/L. The dose-normalized median (interquartile range) Cmin/ss was 11.5 (7.0-16.5) mg/L. The coefficient of variation of Cmin/ss and dose-normalized Cmin/ss were 69.4% and 64.2%, respectively. A weak correlation was observed between levetiracetam Cmin/ss and patient age (r = 0.21; P = 0.020), creatinine clearance (r = -0.26; P = 0.004), and daily dose (r = 0.42; P < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis identified age and daily levetiracetam dose as significant factors predicting target Cmin/ss attainment. The influence of concomitant antiepileptic therapy was not determined. CONCLUSIONS Age and daily dose were the most significant predictors of levetiracetam target-concentration attainment and should be considered in further investigations to develop a dosing algorithm for optimal levetiracetam therapy.
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Feng Y, Chen Y, Jia Y, Wang Z, Wang X, Jiang L, Ai C, Li W, Liu Y. Efficacy and safety of levetiracetam versus (fos)phenytoin for second-line treatment of epilepticus: a meta-analysis of latest randomized controlled trials. Seizure 2021; 91:339-345. [PMID: 34284302 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2021.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the efficiency and safety profiles of levetiracetam and (fos)phenytoin (phenytoin or fosphenytoin) for second-line treatment of seizures by performing a meta-analysis of RCTs. METHODS We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, FDA.gov, and ClinicalTrials.gov for RCTs (published before July 31, 2020; no language restrictions). Two independent reviewers screened abstracts and titles against inclusion and exclusion criteria published previously in the PROSPERO: CRD42020202736. Eleven studies fulfilled the established criteria. We assessed pooled data by using a random-effects model. Quality analysis was performed by using version 2 of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool (RoB 2). RevMan v.5.3 was used to perform statistical analyses, and publication bias (egger's test) was assessed with Stata MP v.14.0. RESULTS Levetiracetam was similar to (fos)phenytoin in seizure termination rate (risk ratio [RR] 0.94; 95% CI 0.87 to 1.01), time of seizure termination (mean difference [MD] 0.44; -0.60 to 1.49), and drug resistance ([RR] 1.12, 0.86 to 1.45). The safety outcome showed a significant statistical difference between fosphenytoin group and levetiracetam group ([RR] 1.44, 1.14 to 1.81), while there was no significant difference observed between phenytoin treatment and levetiracetam treatment ([RR] 1.26, 0.99 to 1.60). CONCLUSION Levetiracetam was similar to (fos)phenytoin in cessation rate convulsive status epilepticus, and drug resistance, while it was superior (fos)phenytoin in pooled safety outcome. Further exploration is still needed as to whether it is the first choice for second-line drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyi Feng
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, China
| | - Yueyue Chen
- Translational Medicine Research Institute, College of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China
| | - Yaqin Jia
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, China
| | - Lili Jiang
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, China
| | - Chunzhi Ai
- State Key Laboratory for the Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin 541004, China
| | - Wei Li
- Translational Medicine Research Institute, College of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China.
| | - Yong Liu
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, China.
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Chaijamorn W, Charoensareerat T, Rungkitwattanakul D, Phunpon S, Sathienluckana T, Srisawat N, Pattharachayakul S. Levetiracetam dosing in patients receiving continuous renal replacement therapy. Epilepsia 2021; 62:2151-2158. [PMID: 34247386 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study was aimed to define appropriate levetiracetam dosing regimens from available published pharmacokinetics (PK) studies in critically ill patients with and without cirrhosis receiving continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) via Monte Carlo simulation (MCS). METHODS Mathematical pharmacokinetic models were developed using published demographic and PK data in adult critically ill patients with known variability and correlations between PK parameters. CRRT modalities (continuous venovenous hemofiltration and continuous venovenous hemodialysis) with different effluent rates were modeled. Levetiracetam regimens from available clinical resources were evaluated on the probability of target attainment (PTA) using pharmacodynamics (PD) target of the trough concentrations and area under the time-concentration curve within a range of 6-20 mg/L and 222-666 mg × hour/L for the initial 72 hours of therapy, respectively. Optimal regimens were defined from regimens that yielded the highest PTA. Each regimen was tested in a group of different 10,000 virtual patients. RESULTS Our results showed the optimal levetiracetam dosing regimen of 750-1000 mg every 12 hours is recommended for adult patients receiving both CRRT modalities with two different effluent rates of 25 and 35 mL/kg/h. Child-Pugh class C cirrhotic patients undergoing CRRT required lower dosing regimens of 500-750 mg every 12 ours due to smaller non-renal clearance. Of interest, some of literature-based dosing regimens were not able to attain the PK and PD targets. SIGNIFICANCE Volume of distribution, non-renal clearance, CRRT clearance, and body weight were significantly correlated with the PTA targets. Dosing adaptation in this vulnerable population should be concerned. Clinical validation of our finding is absolutely needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dhakrit Rungkitwattanakul
- Department of Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Howard University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | | | - Nattachai Srisawat
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand.,Excellence Center for Critical Care Nephrology, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand.,Critical Care Nephrology Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Academic of Science, Royal Society of Thailand, Bangkok, Thailand.,Tropical Medicine Cluster, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Department of Critical Care Medicine, Center for Critical Care Nephrology, The CRISMA Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sutthiporn Pattharachayakul
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
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Westphal S, Hertler C, Blum D, Schettle M. Subcutaneous Levetiracetam Application Sustains Therapeutic Drug Levels. Palliat Med Rep 2021; 2:157-159. [PMID: 34223515 PMCID: PMC8241392 DOI: 10.1089/pmr.2020.0119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We report on a patient suffering from seizures caused by cerebral metastases of adenocarcinoma of the lung. Initially, the patient was treated effectively with oral levetiracetam. As the disease progressed, oral intake was no longer possible. Since levetiracetam had controlled the patient's seizures well, the medication delivery mode was switched first to intravenous application, followed by a return to oral administration. After further deterioration, subcutaneous levetiracetam application was used to control epileptic symptoms while avoiding the sedating effects of subcutaneous midazolam. Subcutaneous levetiracetam allowed for stable seizure control in the end-of-life situation. Serum levels of levetiracetam were assessed for all application conditions and demonstrate that therapeutic drug levels can be reached by subcutaneous application. This report from a tertiary care center in Switzerland adds to the sparse but growing evidence base for the use of subcutaneous levetiracetam to manage seizures in palliative and end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Westphal
- Competence Center Palliative Care, Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Caroline Hertler
- Competence Center Palliative Care, Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - David Blum
- Competence Center Palliative Care, Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Markus Schettle
- Competence Center Palliative Care, Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Saitov G, Müller A, Bastian B, Michalski D. [Pharmacotherapy and intensive care aspects of status epilepticus: update 2020/2021]. Anaesthesist 2021; 70:874-887. [PMID: 34212230 PMCID: PMC8492596 DOI: 10.1007/s00101-021-01000-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Die gezielte Therapie epileptischer Ereignisse und im Speziellen des Status epilepticus (SE) setzt das sichere Erkennen der Krankheitsbilder voraus, wofür gerade bei Formen mit vorwiegend nichtmotorischen Symptomen klinische und elektroenzephalographische Expertise notwendig ist. Die im Jahr 2020 erfolgte Fortschreibung der deutschen Leitlinie zur Behandlung des SE hält an der streng stufengerechten Therapie fest, die eskalierend die Anwendung von Benzodiazepinen, spezifischen Antiepileptika und Anästhetika vorsieht. Bisher ist die Eingrenzung eines in den allermeisten Fällen wirksamen sowie zugleich sicheren und interaktionsfreien Antiepileptikums nicht gelungen. Individuelle Vorerkrankungen und aktuelle Begleitumstände gehen daher genauso wie Erfahrungen des Behandlerteams in die differenzierte Behandlung des SE ein. Insbesondere bei therapierefraktären Formen des SE erweist sich die Therapie als durchaus kompliziert und hat regelhaft intensivmedizinische Implikationen. Mithin ergeben sich im Zuge der modernen SE-Behandlung zahlreiche interdisziplinäre Schnittstellen. Zukünftige wissenschaftliche Fragstellungen werden sich u. a. mit der optimalen Therapie des nonkonvulsiven SE und hier v. a. dem Ausmaß und dem Zeitpunkt von adäquaten Therapieschritten sowie mit assoziierten ethischen Fragen einer Therapieeskalation beschäftigen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielė Saitov
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Anästhesiologie und Intensivtherapie, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Liebigstr. 20, 04103, Leipzig, Deutschland.
| | - Annekatrin Müller
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Liebigstr. 20, 04103, Leipzig, Deutschland
| | - Börge Bastian
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Anästhesiologie und Intensivtherapie, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Liebigstr. 20, 04103, Leipzig, Deutschland
| | - Dominik Michalski
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Liebigstr. 20, 04103, Leipzig, Deutschland.
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Matsunuma S, Sunaga S, Hoshiai A, Arai T, Jimbo H, Yoshimoto K. Psychiatric disorders of the combination of levetiracetam either with lacosamide or perampanel: a retrospective cohort study. Int J Clin Pharm 2021; 43:1516-1522. [PMID: 34121153 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-021-01274-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Background The number of patients with epilepsy receiving perampanel or lacosamide as an add-on treatment following levetiracetam treatment has increased. Although levetiracetam causes psychiatric disorders, it is unclear whether they occur with the combined use of these antiepileptic drugs. Objective To determine the frequency of psychiatric disorders in patients received lacosamide or perampanel in combination with levetiracetam. Setting A single-center retrospective cohort study. Method Patients who received levetiracetam + lacosamide or levetiracetam + perampanel were selected. Medical records from the start of combination therapy contained characteristics of patients and the incidence of psychiatric disorders. Main outcome measure The frequency of psychiatric disorders, the time to onset, dose reduction or discontinuation following psychiatric disorders, and the clinical course following disorder onset. Results Forty-four patients used levetiracetam + lacosamide and 50 used levetiracetam + perampanel. The incidence of psychiatric disorders was significantly lower (p < 0.001) with levetiracetam + lacosamide (6.8%) than with levetiracetam + perampanel (44%). The incidence of affect lability was significantly higher with levetiracetam + perampanel than with levetiracetam + lacosamide (p = 0.018). The time to the onset of psychiatric disorders was within 1 month of dose initiation or increase in one case (33.3%) with levetiracetam + lacosamide and 16 cases (72.7%) with levetiracetam + perampanel. There was no significant difference in clinical characteristics and antiepileptic drug dosages owing to the presence or absence of psychiatric disorders. Conclusion As the frequency of psychiatric disorders was higher with levetiracetam + perampanel therapy, levetiracetam + lacosamide may be preferable. These disorders tended to develop within 1 month of therapy and were not dose-dependent. Antiepileptic drugs should be cautiously prescribed to avoid psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoru Matsunuma
- Department of Pharmacy, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center, 1163 Tatemachi, Hachioji City, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Shigeki Sunaga
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akira Hoshiai
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takao Arai
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Jimbo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koichi Yoshimoto
- Department of Pharmacy, Tokyo Medical University Hachioji Medical Center, 1163 Tatemachi, Hachioji City, Tokyo, Japan
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50
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Pillay-Fuentes Lorente V, Bekker A, Kali GTJ, Lloyd LG, Van der Merwe AW, Abulfathi AA, Decloedt EH. The Pharmacokinetics of Crushed Levetiracetam Tablets Administered to Neonates. J Trop Pediatr 2021; 67:6296315. [PMID: 34114632 DOI: 10.1093/tropej/fmab041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intravenous phenobarbital remains the first-line therapy in the management of neonatal seizures. Shortages of intravenous phenobarbital in South Africa necessitated the addition of oral levetiracetam as part of management of neonatal seizures. OBJECTIVE We evaluated the pharmacokinetics of crushed immediate-release levetiracetam tablets administered to neonates to terminate seizures. METHODS A prospective, observational study of neonates admitted with seizures to Tygerberg Hospital. Participants received crushed levetiracetam (diluted in saline) given orally or via naso-/orogastric tube. At steady-state, pharmacokinetic sampling was performed at pre-dose, 1.5, 2.5 and 4 h post-dose. Maximum concentration (Cmax), time to Cmax (Tmax), trough concentrations (Ctrough) and area under the concentration-time curve (AUC0-12) were calculated using non-compartmental analysis. Seizure termination and safety profiles were documented. RESULTS Nineteen participants were grouped into three dosing ranges: (i) 5-15 mg/kg/12-hourly, (ii) 15-25 mg/kg/12-hourly and (iii) 25-35 mg/kg/12-hourly. Range 1 demonstrated AUC0-12 167.0 ± 45.6 h*μg/mL, Cmax 19.19 ± 4.12 μg/mL and Ctrough 9.99 ± 3.86 µg/mL. Range 2, AUC0-12 316.5 ± 108.4 h*μg/mL, Cmax 35.12 ± 10.54 µg/mL and Ctrough 19.25 ± 8.48 µg/mL. Range 3, AUC0-12 290.9 (range 176.14-405.59) h*μg/mL, Cmax 36.11 (range 27.58-44.64) µg/mL and Ctrough 13.03 (2.98-23.07) µg/mL. Seizures terminated in 17/19 (90%) neonates by day 3 and 19/19 (100%) by day 4 post-levetiracetam initiation. CONCLUSION Crushed levetiracetam has comparable pharmacokinetics to historical data. No pharmacokinetic differences were observed between oral vs. naso-/orogastric administration. Crushed levetiracetam tablets can be considered for neonates in low-resource settings where intravenous and syrup access is limited. LAY SUMMARY Intravenous preparations of antiepileptic medications are used in the management of neonatal seizures. Various established standard of care intravenous antiepileptic medicines are unavailable nationally and internationally due to reasons outside our control. This stock shortage included intravenous phenobarbitone which is the first-line treatment for paediatric seizures. Due to phenobarbital shortage, levetiracetam has been identified by the neonatologists at Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa, as a suitable treatment option due to its efficacy and safety profile. However, intravenous levetiracetam and oral syrup is not registered in South Africa. Levetiracetam tablets are being crushed, dissolved and administered to neonates. There are no data available on the absorption of crushed levetiracetam tablets administered to neonates via a nasogastric tube. This study characterized the pharmacokinetic profile of crushed levetiracetam administered to neonates. We selected neonates receiving levetiracetam from the neonatal wards at Tygerberg hospital and drew blood to analyse the levetiracetam concentrations at 4 different time points. We found that the overall exposure of crushed levetiracetam tablets were comparable to the exposures achieved in historical data of the unaltered formulations. We concluded that crushed levetiracetam tablets can be considered for neonates in low resource settings where intravenous and syrup access is limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veshni Pillay-Fuentes Lorente
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
| | - Adrie Bekker
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
| | - Gugu T J Kali
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
| | - Lizel G Lloyd
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
| | - Alma W Van der Merwe
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
| | - Ahmed A Abulfathi
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri 600004, Nigeria
| | - Eric H Decloedt
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
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