LEVETIRACETAM Meaning and
Definition
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Levetiracetam is a noun that refers to a prescription medication that is used to manage and control seizures in patients with epilepsy. It belongs to a class of drugs known as anticonvulsants or antiepileptic drugs.
Levetiracetam works by inhibiting the abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which is responsible for causing seizures. It does this by binding to a specific protein called the synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A), which is involved in regulating the release of neurotransmitters. By binding to this protein, levetiracetam modulates neurotransmitter release, resulting in a reduction in the occurrence and severity of seizures.
The medication comes in tablet, extended-release tablet, oral solution, and injection forms, allowing for different administration options depending on the patient's needs and preferences.
Levetiracetam is typically prescribed by a healthcare professional, such as a neurologist or epileptologist, after thorough evaluation and diagnosis of epilepsy. The dosage and frequency of administration are usually determined by the patient's response to the medication and may be adjusted over time.
While levetiracetam is generally a well-tolerated medication, it can potentially cause side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, headache, and mood changes. It is important for patients to follow their healthcare provider's instructions carefully and report any concerning symptoms or side effects.
Overall, levetiracetam is considered an effective and widely used medication in the management of epilepsy, helping individuals with seizures lead more stable lives.
Etymology of LEVETIRACETAM
The word "levetiracetam" is a chemical compound that belongs to the class of antiepileptic drugs. Its etymology can be broken down as follows:
1. Levetir-: This part of the word is derived from the French word "lév-", which means "left" or "left-hand side". It is used in the context of chemistry to indicate the orientation of a molecule or its structure.
2. -acetam: The suffix "-acetam" is derived from the chemical term "acetamide", which refers to a type of organic compound with the structure of an amide group (CONH2) attached to an acetyl group (CH3CO-). This suffix is commonly used in the nomenclature of various drugs.
