TLDR Levetiracetam may cause hair loss, which can potentially reverse with lower doses or stopping the drug.
The document described a study involving five epilepsy patients who experienced hair loss after beginning treatment with levetiracetam (LEV). The group consisted of four females and one male, with varying types of epilepsy. Hair loss was observed within two months of starting LEV, with three patients on monotherapy and two on combination therapy. Despite the side effect, none stopped LEV treatment, though one had their dose lowered. The study concluded that hair loss is a possible but rare side effect of LEV, which may be reversible with dose reduction or discontinuation. It emphasized the importance of awareness among patients and clinicians regarding this side effect and the consideration of dose adjustments or alternative treatments if necessary.
17 citations,
January 2013 in “Indian Journal of Pharmacology” High levels of the seizure medication sodium valproate can cause hair loss.
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November 2013 in “Seizure: European Journal of Epilepsy” Levetiracetam may cause hair loss, which can potentially reverse with lower doses or stopping the drug.