Key takeaways
Gabapentin (Neurontin) and Levetiracetam (Keppra) are both antiepileptic medications, but they have some key differences. Gabapentin is used to treat certain seizures and nerve pain, while Levetiracetam is used for various types of seizures, including partial-onset, myoclonic, and generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Gabapentin is typically taken three times a day, whereas Levetiracetam can be taken once or twice daily depending on the formulation. Gabapentin is available as a lower-cost generic, and it can come in tablets, capsules, and liquid forms. Levetiracetam also has a generic version and is available in immediate-release and extended-release tablets, as well as a liquid form. Common side effects of Gabapentin include dizziness and sleepiness, while Levetiracetam can cause weakness, sleepiness, and headaches. Additionally, Gabapentin has a potential for misuse and is controlled in some states, whereas Levetiracetam is not a controlled substance. Both medications can cause serious side effects like suicidal thoughts and severe allergic reactions, but Levetiracetam may also rarely cause mood and behavior changes, especially in children.
