6 Must-Know Facts About Briviact for Partial-Onset Seizures
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that affects an estimated 65 million people worldwide. Briviact (brivaracetam) is a medication commonly used to treat seizures; understanding how it works and what to expect is crucial for patients and caregivers.
Table of Contents
What Is Briviact Used For?
BRIVIACT® (brivaracetam) CV is a prescription medication used to treat partial seizures for 1 month and older. It gained FDA approval on February 18, 2016.
It is an antiepileptic medication that can be used in combination with other antiepileptic medications for the treatment of partial seizures (seizures that begin in a specific part of the brain).
How Does Brivaracetam Work?
Epilepsy is caused by excessive electrical activity in certain areas of the brain.
The exact mechanism of action of the active ingredient in Briviact, divinavastatin, is not known, but it attaches to a protein called synaptic vesicle protein 2A, which is involved in the release of chemical messengers from nerve cells.
This helps brivaracetam stabilize electrical activity in the brain and prevent seizures.
What Is The Difference Between Briviact And Keppra?
Both Briviact (brivaracetam) and Keppra (levetiracetam) are considered safe and effective medications for treating certain types of epilepsy. However, there are some differences to consider when using them.
Keppra is FDA-approved for more types of epilepsy and has fewer drug interactions than Briviact.
Brivaracetam does not require a gradual increase in dose, and it may have fewer mood-related side effects than Keppra.
However, brivaracetam is a controlled substance, so it may not be the best choice for people with a history of substance abuse.
Your healthcare team can help you find the best medication for you based on your personal medical history.
Briviact Dosing Considerations
The Brivaracetam dosing regimen is influenced by factors such as age, body weight, hepatic function, and concomitant medications. Below is a comprehensive guide:
💊 Standard Dosing Guidelines
Adults and Adolescents (≥16 years or ≥50 kg)
- Initial Dose: 50 mg twice daily (total of 100 mg/day).
- Maintenance Dose: Adjustable between 25 mg to 100 mg twice daily (50–200 mg/day) based on clinical response and tolerability.
- Maximum Dose: 100 mg twice daily (200 mg/day).
Pediatric Patients (1 month to <16 years)
Dosing is weight-based:
| Body Weight | Initial Dose (mg/kg BID) | Maintenance Dose Range (mg/kg BID) | Maximum Dose (mg/kg BID) |
| <11 kg | 0.75–1.5 | 0.75–3 | 3 |
| 11–<20 kg | 0.5–1.25 | 0.5–2.5 | 2.5 |
| 20–<50 kg | 0.5–1 | 0.5–2 | 2 |
| ≥50 kg | 25–50 mg | 25–100 mg | 100 mg |
Common Briviact Side Effects
Like all medications, Briviact may cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them.
The most common side effects:
⭕sleepiness
⭕dizziness
⭕feeling tired
⭕nausea and vomiting
Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Medical Help):
❗allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing),
❗mental/mood changes (depression, anxiety, aggression),
❗suicidal thoughts. Antiepileptic drugs, including brivaracetam, may increase the risk of suicidal ideation in some patients, so close monitoring of mood and behavior is essential.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Lifestyle Considerations
Pregnancy: Brivaracetam is classified as pregnancy category C (animal studies showed risk, but human data is limited).
It should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the fetus. Discuss with your doctor about alternative options or the need for prenatal vitamin supplements (e.g., folic acid).
Breastfeeding: It passes into breast milk, and while no severe infant side effects have been reported, consult your doctor to weigh the benefits of breastfeeding against the potential risks to the baby.
Lifestyle: It may cause drowsiness or dizziness, so avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or engaging in risky activities until you know how the medication affects you.
Limit alcohol consumption, as it can worsen side effects and increase seizure risk.
About DengYueMed – HK Drug Wholesale Distributor
As a legally compliant drug import and export company, DengYueMed is certified by the pharmacy & poisons board of Hong Kong — you can verify our qualification on their official website.
Our efforts to improve the affordability of Briviact medicine aim to ensure that more patients can benefit from this important medication.
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