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Topamax vs. Keppra

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

Key takeaways

Topiramate (Topamax, Qudexy XR, Trokendi XR, Eprontia) and levetiracetam (Keppra, Keppra XR, Roweepra, Elepsia XR) are both antiepileptic medications used to treat seizures, but they have some key differences. Topiramate can also be used to prevent migraines, while levetiracetam is not indicated for this use. Topiramate is available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms, as well as a liquid, and is typically taken once or twice daily. Levetiracetam also comes in immediate-release and extended-release forms, and it is taken twice daily for the immediate-release and once daily for the extended-release. Topiramate can cause side effects like kidney stones, serious eye problems, and weight loss, whereas levetiracetam can cause mood changes, sleepiness, and headaches. Additionally, topiramate can interact with many other medications, while levetiracetam has no known interactions with food or other medications. Both medications are available in generic forms, making them more affordable options.

Topiramate

(Topamax)

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Levetiracetam

(Keppra)

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Summary for Topamax

Prescription only

Topiramate (Topamax) belongs to the drug class called antiepileptics. It can be used alone or together with other medications to treat certain types of seizures in people 2 years and older. Topiramate (Topamax) can also be used to prevent migraines in people 12 years and older. It comes as immediate-release tablets and sprinkle capsules. The dosage is taken by mouth twice daily. Topiramate (Topamax) has many possible side effects, like weight loss and tingling of the arms and legs. It can also interact with many other medications.

Indications for Topamax

Pros and Cons for Topamax

Pros

  • Can take by itself or with other medications to control seizures
  • An option for preventing migraines
  • Also available as a sprinkle capsule that you can open and mix contents with soft food (for people who have trouble swallowing pills)
  • Approved for both adults and children (age depends on the health problem)

Cons

Common Side Effects for Topamax

  • "Pins and needles" feeling
  • Sleepiness
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Low appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Nervousness
  • Depression
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Trouble remembering things
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Trouble moving or keeping balance
  • Fever
  • Mood changes
  • Change in taste

Warnings for Topamax

  • Vision problems
  • High body temperature and trouble sweating
  • Too much acid in the blood (metabolic acidosis)
  • Changes in mood and risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior
  • Problems with memory, speech, or coordination
  • Sleepiness, tiredness, and lower concentration
  • High ammonia levels in the blood
  • Serious skin reactions
  • Kidney stones
  • Risk of seizures if you stop the medication suddenly
  • Bone or growth problems in children
  • Interaction with other medications
  • Harm to an unborn baby

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 Topamax vs. Keppra

Price Card Drug Icon
Topiramate30 tablets / 25mg
$4.50$4.50
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Price Card Drug Icon
Levetiracetam60 tablets / 500mg
$9.00$9.00
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