The patent for brand name Keppra expired in 2009, and since then, some patients have switched from Keppra to Levetiracetam, either as a result of their doctor prescribing it, or the pharmacist filling the Keppra prescription with the generic equivalent, or possibly because of their insurance company covering only the cheaper drug.
Patients Have Reported Worsening Side Effects After Generic Substitution
While the practice of generic substitution is common in the medical field, studies have indicated that substituting brand name AEDs with generic AEDs after a patient has been taking the brand name drug can cause breakthrough seizures, severe injuries, and even death. This is possibly caused by different inactive ingredients being used in Levetiracetam as opposed to brand name Keppra, despite the fact that the FDA has classified the drugs as equivalents.
Patients switching to generic AEDs may also be more likely to experience worsening side effects of AEDs in general – one survey found that of all patients who switched from a brand name AED to a generic AED, 59% reported worsening seizures, while 49% said they had worse side effects than before. The common side effects of generic Keppra include drowsiness, weakness, vomiting, infections, loss of appetite, and dizziness. With the increased risk of worsening side effects when switching to Levetiracetam, the rarer but more severe side effects of generic Keppra become more significant as well. These include depression, anxiety, hallucinations, psychotic episodes, worsening seizures, and suicidal thoughts or attempts.
Harmed by Generic Keppra – Seek Generic Keppra Attorney Immediately
If you or a loved one has suffered as a result of switching to generic Keppra (Levetiracetam), you should seek legal help immediately to protect your rights. While there is no fee or obligation, delaying may mean you could lose your right to seek compensation for injuries caused by generic Keppra, due to state-imposed time limits for filing a lawsuit.
Check out the following articles for more information about generic Keppra, filing a generic Keppra lawsuit and finding a generic Keppra attorney.