What To Do If You Experience Severe Dizziness and Headache After Taking Levetiracetam

Experiencing significant dizziness and headaches after taking levetiracetam tablets may indicate an adverse drug reaction. Patients should manage their symptoms according to their own tolerance levels. Headache and dizziness are among the most common side effects of levetiracetam, with reported incidence rates of over 10% and between 1% to 10%, respectively. While the exact mechanism behind these symptoms is not fully understood, they typically occur during the early stages of treatment and often decrease in intensity over time. Treatment options include both general care and medical interventions, as outlined below:

General Care

If a patient experiences mild dizziness or headaches that are tolerable or can be relieved through self-care, no specific medical treatment may be necessary. However, it's important to avoid activities that require high concentration during episodes of dizziness or headache. Sudden changes in posture should also be minimized to prevent worsening symptoms.

Medical Treatment

When Symptoms Become Severe

If dizziness and headaches become severe and start affecting daily life, it's highly recommended to visit a neurology clinic at the nearest hospital. Under the guidance of a physician, the dosage of levetiracetam may be reduced or discontinued. Doctors may prescribe anti-vertigo medications such as promethazine or diphenhydramine for symptom relief.

Additional Symptom Management

In cases where nausea and vomiting accompany the dizziness and headaches, medications like metoclopramide or domperidone can be used to control vomiting. The treating physician should also reassess the patient's underlying condition to determine whether continued treatment is necessary. If ongoing therapy is required, switching to alternative anti-epileptic drugs such as lamotrigine or oxcarbazepine may help alleviate the side effects like dizziness and headaches.