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Nayzilam vs. Keppra

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Nayzilam (midazolam) and Keppra (levetiracetam) are both used to treat seizures, but they have some key differences. Nayzilam (midazolam) is a benzodiazepine nasal spray used for quick relief during seizure attacks in people 12 years and older. It works by slowing down brain activity and is only available as a brand-name medication. On the other hand, Keppra (levetiracetam) is an antiepileptic medication available in both brand and generic forms. It comes in various oral formulations, including immediate-release and extended-release tablets, and is used for long-term seizure control. Keppra (levetiracetam) is taken daily and can be used by children as young as one month old. While Nayzilam (midazolam) is used as needed for seizure attacks, Keppra (levetiracetam) is taken regularly to prevent seizures. Additionally, Nayzilam (midazolam) requires special training to know when and how to use it properly, whereas Keppra (levetiracetam) does not have these instructions for use but can cause mood changes and behavioral issues, especially in children.

Nayzilam

(midazolam)

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Levetiracetam

(Keppra)

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Summary for Nayzilam

Prescription only

Nayzilam (midazolam) is a nasal spray that quickly treats seizure attacks in people with a seizure condition called epilepsy. It comes in a ready-to-use spray device, but the person giving the medication must know when and how to give it properly. Nayzilam (midazolam) commonly causes drowsiness, throat irritation, and nasal discomfort. Nayzilam (midazolam) is only available as a brand-name medication.

Indications for Nayzilam

  • Seizure attacks in people with epilepsy who are 12 years of age and older

Pros and Cons for Nayzilam

Pros

  • Works within 10 minutes to treat seizure attacks
  • Might help prevent another seizure attack from happening within 24 hours
  • Good option for someone who can't take anything by mouth, such as in the middle of a seizure attack

Cons

  • Only for treating seizure attacks, not for long-term seizure control
  • Caregivers need special training to know when and how to give the medication properly.
  • Can't use in children younger than 12 years of age
  • Only available as a brand-name medication

Common Side Effects for Nayzilam

  • Drowsiness (10%)
  • Nasal discomfort (9%)
  • Headache (4%)
  • Throat irritation (3%)
  • Runny nose (3%)

Warnings for Nayzilam

  • Extreme sleepiness and difficulty breathing
  • Misuse and addiction
  • Dependence and withdrawal
  • Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
  • Difficulty with concentration, focus, and memory
  • Rise in eye pressure in people with glaucoma

Summary for Keppra

Prescription only

Immediate-release levetiracetam is a seizure medication for adults and children. It's known as the brand names Keppra and Roweepra, and it also has a generic version. This medication comes as a tablet and liquid that's taken twice each day. The dosage depends on your age, weight, and the type of seizure you have. Levetiracetam (Keppra) doesn't have any known interactions with food or medications. Common side effects include weakness, sleepiness, and headache.

Indications for Keppra

Pros and Cons for Keppra

Pros

  • Available as tablets and a liquid (liquid recommended for children weighing 44 lbs or less)
  • Taken by mouth with or without food
  • Usually tolerated well

Cons

  • Need to take twice per day
  • Might cause changes in behavior or mood
  • Might not be the best option if you have a history of mental health problems (e.g., depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder)

Common Side Effects for Keppra

Side effects were reported by people with focal aware seizures taking levetiracetam (Keppra) with other seizure medications. Side effects might differ for other seizure types.
Adults:

  • Weakness (15%)
  • Sleepiness (15%)
  • Headache (14%)
  • Infection (13%)
  • Dizziness (9%)

Children:

  • Headache (19%)
  • Common cold symptoms (15%)
  • Vomiting (15%)
  • Sleepiness (13%)
  • Tiredness (11%)
  • Being aggressive (10%)
  • Cough (9%)
  • Stuffy nose (9%)
  • Upper stomach pain (9%)
  • Lower appetite (8%)

Warnings for Keppra

  • Abnormal mood, thoughts, or behavior
  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior
  • Difficulty with speech, movement, and concentration
  • Serious allergic reactions and skin reactions
  • Withdrawal seizures
  • Low blood cell counts
  • Higher blood pressure in young children
  • Seizure control during pregnancy

Prices with our coupons for Nayzilam vs. Keppra

Price Card Drug Icon
Nayzilam2 nasal sprays / 5mg
$661.53$847.74
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Levetiracetam60 tablets / 500mg
$9.00$9.00
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