What Happens If You Take Keppra and Do Not Need It?
Keppra (levetiracetam) is a prescription drug intended for the treatment of epilepsy. Epilepsy is a neurological condition that causes seizures, which can be dangerous and sometimes life-threatening. Keppra works by reducing the number and severity of seizures in people with epilepsy. However, some people take Keppra without a prescription or take it unnecessarily, which can be dangerous and cause various side effects.
The Dangerous Side Effects of Misusing Keppra
Individuals who misuse Keppra can experience various side effects that can impact their daily lives and activities. Some of the common side effects of taking Keppra include:
Dizziness
Dizziness is a common side effect of Keppra, which can cause individuals to feel unsteady or lightheaded. Dizziness can affect balance and coordination, making it challenging to perform daily activities such as driving.
Drowsiness
Drowsiness is another common side effect of Keppra, which can cause individuals to feel tired or sleepy. Drowsiness can impact a person’s performance at work or school and can make it challenging to concentrate or focus.
Coordination Problems
Keppra can affect a person’s coordination and balance, leading to coordination problems. This can cause individuals to stumble or fall, which can result in injuries or accidents.
Mood Changes
Keppra can cause mood changes, which can include depression, anxiety, or irritability. Mood changes can impact a person’s relationships, social interactions, and overall mental health.
The Risks of Taking Keppra Without a Prescription
Taking Keppra without a prescription can be risky and dangerous. Doing so can cause serious health problems, including:
Allergic Reactions
People who take Keppra without their doctor’s approval can develop an allergic reaction to the drug. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include hives, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Overdose
Taking Keppra in excessive amounts can cause an overdose, which can be dangerous and life-threatening. Symptoms of an overdose can include confusion, uncontrollable shaking, loss of consciousness, or difficulty breathing.
Interaction with Other Medications or Health Conditions
Keppra can interact with other medications or health conditions, which can be dangerous. Taking Keppra without medical supervision can put individuals at risk of adverse drug interactions or exacerbating underlying health conditions.
Examples of Real-Life Consequences of Taking Keppra Without a Prescription
There have been several real-life examples of people taking Keppra without a prescription and suffering from harm. For instance, a teenager in Florida stole his father’s Keppra medication, which led to a fatal overdose. In another case, a woman who was not diagnosed with epilepsy took Keppra and other seizure medications, which resulted in significant side effects and complications.
Why You Should Never Take Someone Else’s Keppra
Taking someone else’s Keppra is risky and dangerous for several reasons, including:
Variations in Dosages and Usage Instructions
People who take someone else’s medication can be receiving different dosages or usage instructions, which can be dangerous. Variations in dosages can lead to an overdose or underdose, while incorrect usage instructions can cause adverse side effects or harm.
Unknown Drug Interactions or Allergies
Individuals can have different drug interactions or allergic reactions to medications, including Keppra. Taking someone else’s Keppra medication can expose individuals to unknown drug interactions or allergies, which can be dangerous or life-threatening.
Risks of Obtaining Counterfeit or Expired Medication
Taking counterfeit or expired medication can be dangerous and result in adverse side effects or health problems. Obtaining Keppra from unauthorized sources can result in counterfeit or expired medication, which can pose significant risks to individuals.
The Importance of Proper Keppra Dosage and Usage
It’s crucial to take Keppra only in the proper dosage and according to the prescribed usage instructions. Taking too much or too little Keppra can cause various problems and complications, including:
Increased Risk of Side Effects
Individuals who take Keppra in excessive amounts can experience more severe side effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, mood changes, and coordination problems.
Disruption of Natural Brain Function
Taking too much Keppra can disrupt a person’s natural brain function, which can lead to seizures or other neurological problems.
Development of Drug Dependence or Addiction
Taking medication in excessive amounts or without a prescription can increase the risk of developing drug dependence or addiction. This can result in adverse side effects, health complications, or even death.
Could Taking Keppra Unnecessarily be Harmful to Your Health?
When individuals take Keppra unnecessarily, it can harm their physical and mental health. By doing so, individuals can expose themselves to various risks and adverse effects, including:
Increased Risk of Side Effects
Individuals who take Keppra unnecessarily can experience more severe side effects, which can affect their daily lives and activities.
Disruption of Natural Brain Function
Taking Keppra unnecessarily can disrupt a person’s natural brain function, leading to neurological problems or seizures.
Development of Drug Dependence or Addiction
Individuals who take Keppra unnecessarily increase their risk of drug dependence or addiction, where users rely on medication to cope with daily life or stressors.
The Unintended Consequences of Self-Medicating with Keppra
Self-medicating with Keppra can result in unintended consequences, including:
Delaying Proper Diagnosis of Underlying Medical Conditions
Self-medicating with Keppra can delay proper diagnosis of underlying medical conditions. This can make it challenging for doctors to accurately diagnose or treat medical conditions and lead to further health complications.
Overlooking Alternative Treatment Options
Individuals who self-medicate with Keppra can overlook alternative treatment options, which can be more appropriate or effective for their medical conditions.
Increased Risk of Drug Abuse or Addiction
Self-medicating with Keppra can increase the risk of drug abuse or addiction, where users rely on medication to cope with daily life or stressors. This can lead to adverse side effects, health complications, or even death.
Conclusion
Misusing Keppra can be dangerous and cause various side effects, health complications, or even death. It’s crucial to take Keppra only in the proper dosage and according to the prescribed usage instructions. Individuals who experience seizures or other medical conditions should seek medical advice and support, rather than self-medicating with Keppra. Proper medical supervision can help ensure the safe and effective use of Keppra and other prescription medications.
