brecita (BRIVARACETAM)
Introduction to brecita
Brecita, also known as Brivaracetam, is a medication primarily used to treat seizures. It belongs to a class of drugs called anticonvulsants, which help control abnormal electri... See More

What is Brecita?
Brecita is a medication used to treat partial-onset seizures in people with epilepsy. It belongs to the class of drugs called anticonvulsants, which help control seizures by affecting certain chemicals in the brain. Brecita is used as a complementary addition to other therapies for epilepsy management. It helps reduce the frequency of seizures and improve the quality of life for those affected by epilepsy.

What is the usual dose of Brecita?
The usual starting dose of Brecita for adults is 50 mg twice daily. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response and needs. The maximum recommended dose is 200 mg per day. For children and the elderly, dose adjustments may be necessary. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.

How do I take Brecita?
Brecita is usually taken twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening, with or without food. You should swallow the tablets whole and not crush or chew them. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.

For how long do I take Brecita?
Brecita is usually a long-term medication for managing epilepsy. You'll typically take it every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your condition to worsen. How long you'll need this medication depends on your body's response, any side effects you experience, and changes in your overall health. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your Brecita treatment.

What disease or symptom is Brecita used for?
Brecita is primarily used to treat partial-onset seizures in people with epilepsy. It helps control seizures by affecting certain chemicals in the brain. Brecita is used as a complementary addition to other therapies for epilepsy management. It reduces the frequency of seizures and improves the quality of life for those affected by epilepsy.

How long does it take for Brecita to start working?
Brecita begins working shortly after you take it, but it may take several weeks to achieve its full therapeutic effect. The time it takes to notice improvements can vary based on individual factors like age, overall health, and other medications you're taking. It's important to take Brecita exactly as prescribed and attend regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your progress.

Is Brecita effective?
Brecita is effective in treating partial-onset seizures in people with epilepsy. Clinical studies show it significantly reduces seizure frequency in patients. It works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain to help control seizures. This evidence supports its effectiveness for the indicated use. Always follow your doctor's instructions to achieve the best results.

How do I know if Brecita is working?
Brecita is used to treat partial-onset seizures in epilepsy. You'll know it's working if you experience fewer seizures. Your doctor may monitor your progress through regular check-ups and possibly adjust your treatment based on your response. It's important to keep track of your seizure frequency and report any changes to your healthcare provider.

How does Brecita work?
Brecita works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain to help control seizures. It binds to a protein called synaptic vesicle protein 2A, which is involved in the release of neurotransmitters. This action helps stabilize electrical activity in the brain, reducing the frequency of seizures. Think of it like a traffic light that helps regulate the flow of cars, ensuring a smooth and controlled movement.

Who should avoid taking Brecita?
Brecita should not be used by people allergic to it or its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions require immediate medical help. Caution is needed for those with a history of depression or suicidal thoughts, as Brecita can increase these risks. Always consult your doctor about any concerns or conditions before starting Brecita to ensure it's safe for you.

Can I take Brecita with other prescription drugs?
Brecita can interact with other medications, such as carbamazepine and phenytoin, which may increase the risk of side effects or reduce effectiveness. It's important to inform your doctor about all the medications you're taking to avoid potential interactions. Your doctor can adjust your treatment plan to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Can Brecita be taken safely while pregnant?
The safety of Brecita during pregnancy is not well-established. Limited evidence makes it difficult to provide definitive advice. Animal studies suggest potential risks, but human data is lacking. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your condition. Your doctor can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.

Can Brecita be taken safely while breastfeeding?
The safety of Brecita while breastfeeding is not well-established. It's unclear if the medication passes into human breast milk. If you're breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about the safest options for managing your condition. Your doctor can help determine the best treatment plan for you and your baby.

Is Brecita safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals may be more vulnerable to the side effects of Brecita, such as dizziness or drowsiness. These effects can increase the risk of falls or accidents. It's important for elderly patients to be closely monitored by their healthcare provider while taking Brecita. Dose adjustments may be necessary to ensure safety and effectiveness.

How should I store Brecita?
Store Brecita at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Avoid storing it in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture can affect its effectiveness. Always store Brecita out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.

Does Brecita make people tired or drowsy?
Brecita can cause drowsiness or fatigue in some people. These side effects are usually mild. If you notice you're feeling very sleepy or fatigued while taking Brecita, talk with your doctor. They can help determine if these symptoms are related to the medication or if there might be another cause. Proper rest, regular physical activity, and a balanced diet can help maintain your energy levels.

Does Brecita cause stomach upset?
Brecita can occasionally cause stomach upset, including nausea or vomiting. These side effects are usually mild. Taking the medication with food might help reduce discomfort. If you experience severe or persistent stomach issues, talk with your doctor. They can help determine if these symptoms are related to Brecita or if there might be another cause.

Does Brecita affect sleep?
Brecita doesn't typically cause sleep problems. Most people take this medication without experiencing changes in their sleep patterns. If you notice changes in how well you sleep after starting Brecita, talk with your doctor. Sleep problems might be related to something else, like another medication or a different health condition. Your doctor can help figure out what's causing your sleep issues and suggest ways to improve your rest.

Does Brecita make it hard to think or concentrate?
Brecita can occasionally cause cognitive side effects like difficulty concentrating or thinking. These effects are usually mild. If you notice problems with your thinking after starting Brecita, talk with your doctor. They can help determine if these symptoms are related to the medication or if there might be another cause. Don't stop taking Brecita without consulting your doctor.

Does Brecita affect mood?
Brecita can occasionally cause mood changes, anxiety, or agitation. These effects are usually mild but can be more severe in some cases. If you notice changes in your mood or mental well-being after starting Brecita, talk with your doctor. They can help determine if these symptoms are related to the medication and suggest appropriate support while continuing your treatment.

Does Brecita interfere with sexual function?
Brecita doesn't typically cause sexual side effects like erectile dysfunction or loss of libido. Most people take this medication without noticing changes in their sexual function. However, if you experience any persistent discomfort or changes in your sexual function while taking Brecita, talk with your doctor. Your doctor can help determine if your symptoms are related to the medication and recommend appropriate treatment to address any issues.

Does Brecita affect appetite?
Brecita doesn't typically affect your appetite. Most people taking this medication don't notice changes in how hungry they feel. If you notice any unexpected changes in your appetite after starting Brecita, talk with your doctor. They can help determine if these changes are related to the medication or if there might be another cause.

Does Brecita cause weight gain?
Brecita doesn't typically cause significant changes in body weight. Most people take this medication without noticing weight gain or loss. If you experience unexpected changes in your weight while taking Brecita, talk with your doctor. They can help determine if these changes are related to the medication or if there might be another cause.

Does Brecita cause headaches?
Headaches are not a common side effect of Brecita. Most people take this medication without experiencing headaches. If you do get mild headaches while taking Brecita, staying well-hydrated and resting may help. You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers after checking with your doctor. For severe or persistent headaches, talk with your healthcare provider to determine if they might be related to Brecita or another cause.

Does Brecita limit driving?
Brecita can cause dizziness or drowsiness, which may impair your ability to drive safely. Avoid driving until you understand how this medication affects you. If you feel dizzy or drowsy after taking Brecita, it's best to avoid driving until these symptoms go away. Talk with your doctor about any concerns you have about driving while on this medication.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Brecita?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Brecita. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness and drowsiness, which may impair your ability to function safely. If you choose to drink occasionally, limit your alcohol intake and be aware of any warning signs like increased dizziness or drowsiness. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking Brecita for personalized advice.

Is it safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Brecita?
You can drink coffee and tea while taking Brecita. There's no known interaction between caffeine and Brecita. However, caffeine can increase nervousness or jitteriness in some people. If you notice any unusual symptoms, try reducing your caffeine intake. Always drink caffeinated beverages in moderation and talk with your doctor if you have concerns.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Brecita?
You can exercise while taking Brecita, but be cautious. This medication can cause dizziness or drowsiness, which might affect your ability to exercise safely. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded during physical activity, slow down or stop and rest. Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activities until you know how Brecita affects you. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about exercising while on this medication.

What are Brecita possible harms and risks?
Brecita can make you sleepy or dizzy. It can also cause tiredness, nausea, and vomiting. In rare cases, it can lead to serious problems like suicidal thoughts, changes in behavior, or allergic reactions such as breathing problems or swelling. Stopping the medicine suddenly can sometimes make seizures worse.
Available in 2 variations

Brecita 100mg tablet
Brivaracetam (100mg)
strip of 10 tablet

Brecita 50mg tablet 10s
Brivaracetam (50mg)
strip of 10 tablets