Keppra (levetiracetam) is a prescription drug that’s used to treat certain types of seizures. Keppra may or may not be safe to take while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Keep reading to learn more about Keppra and reproductive health. And for a detailed overview of this drug, check out this article.
Note: This article focuses on Keppra, but the drug is also available as an extended-release form, Keppra XR. To learn more about Keppra XR, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
If you can become pregnant, it’s important to consider whether Keppra is a safe option for you.
It’s not known whether it’s safe to take Keppra during pregnancy. If you and your doctor determine that Keppra is needed to treat your seizures during pregnancy, you’ll need more frequent monitoring during the last trimester. As changes happen in your body, you may need a higher dose of Keppra to manage seizures.
If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor before starting this medication.
If you’re able to become pregnant, your doctor may recommend using a form of birth control before and throughout your Keppra treatment.
Pregnancy registry
If you take this drug while pregnant, consider signing up for the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry by visiting the website or calling 888-233-2334. A pregnancy registry collects information about the safety of certain drugs when used during pregnancy.
If you’re currently breastfeeding or planning to do so, it’s important to understand the effects that Keppra could have on you or your child.
It isn’t known whether Keppra is safe to take while breastfeeding. Keppra can pass into breast milk, and it’s not known whether the drug will harm a child who is breastfed. If you’re breastfeeding or planning to do so, talk with your doctor before starting this medication.
Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.