Brivaracetam (By injection)

Brivaracetam (briv-a-RA-se-tam)

Treats seizures.

Brand Name(s):

Briviact

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This medicine is not right for everyone. You should not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to brivaracetam.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

  • Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
  • A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
  • This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.
  • Once your condition improves, your doctor will switch you to an oral medicine that works the same way. If you have any concerns about this, talk to your doctor.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Some medicines can affect how brivaracetam works. Tell your doctor if you are using carbamazepine, phenytoin, or rifampin.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease or a history of depression or mental health problems.
  • This medicine may cause depression, thoughts of suicide, or changes in mood or behavior. Tell your doctor right away if you start to feel more depressed or think about hurting yourself.
  • This medicine may make you dizzy, drowsy, or clumsy. Do not drive or do anything that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you.
  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
  • Dizziness, problems with balance, coordination, or walking
  • Extreme sleepiness, tiredness, or weakness
  • Unusual changes in mood or behavior, depression, thoughts of hurting yourself

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088


Last Updated: 9/6/2024

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