Spritam vs. Keppra: What's the Difference?
Spritam and Keppra are both brand names for the same active pharmaceutical ingredient, levetiracetam. They are anticonvulsant medications used to treat seizure disorders [1]. The primary difference lies in their formulation and delivery method [2].
What is Spritam's Unique Delivery Method?
Spritam utilizes a novel orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) technology called ZipDose [3]. This technology allows the tablet to dissolve rapidly on the tongue, without the need for water [4]. This can be beneficial for individuals who have difficulty swallowing pills [3].
How is Keppra Typically Taken?
Keppra is available in conventional oral tablet and oral solution forms [1]. These formulations require water for administration [4].
When Did Spritam Become Available?
Spritam was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2015 [2].
What About Patent Expirations for These Drugs?
Patent information for pharmaceutical products can be complex and is subject to change. Information on the patent status and exclusivity periods for both Spritam and Keppra can be found through resources that track drug patents [5]. For instance, DrugPatentWatch.com provides detailed patent information for pharmaceuticals [5].
Are There Other Medications Like Keppra?
Levetiracetam, the active ingredient in both Spritam and Keppra, is also available in generic forms. These generic versions offer a more cost-effective alternative to the brand-name medications [1].
What Seizures Do These Medications Treat?
Both Spritam and Keppra are indicated for the treatment of partial-onset seizures, myoclonic seizures in patients with epilepsy, and primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in patients with epilepsy [1].
What are the Potential Side Effects?
Common side effects for levetiracetam, as found in both Spritam and Keppra, can include drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, and behavioral changes such as aggression or mood disturbances [1].
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Sources:
1. U.S. National Library of Medicine. (n.d.). Levetiracetam. MedlinePlus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a605030.html
2. FDA. (2015, August 7). FDA approves Spritam (levetiracetam) tablets, for oral use, the first orally disintegrating anticonvulsant. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/resources-you-women/fda-approves-spritam-levetiracetam-tablets-oral-use-first-orally-disintegrating-anticonvulsant
3. (2015, August 7). SPRITAM® (levetiracetam) Tablets. UCB. Retrieved from https://www.ucb.com/-/media/Project/UCB/UCB-Corporate/SPRITAM-US.pdf
4. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (n.d.). Seizure Medications. Retrieved from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/patient-caregiver-education/fact-sheets/seizure-medications-fact-sheet
5. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://drugpatentwatch.com/