Drug interactions
Levetiracetam + Orlistat
Severity: Moderate
Levetiracetam and Orlistat: moderate interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Breakthrough seizures have been reported when orlistat is taken with antiepileptic drugs, possibly because less drug is absorbed. Levetiracetam is highly bioavailable, so the risk is likely lower but loss of seizure control remains a concern.
What this interaction means in plain words
Levetiracetam and Orlistat can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Levetiracetam belongs to Central Nervous System; Orlistat belongs to Miscellaneous.
Why it happens
Possible reduced absorption of antiepileptics due to orlistat-induced fat malabsorption; not firmly established.
What to do
Monitor for increased seizure frequency after orlistat is started. Consider avoiding orlistat in patients with poorly controlled epilepsy.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Levetiracetam
Other interactions of Orlistat
- Cyclosporine + Orlistat Major
- Cyclosporin + Orlistat Major
- Orlistat + Triheptanoin Major
- Amiodarone + Orlistat Moderate
- Beta carotene + Orlistat Moderate
- Carbamazepine + Orlistat Moderate
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Levetiracetam with Orlistat?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Levetiracetam and Orlistat can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Breakthrough seizures have been reported when orlistat is taken with antiepileptic drugs, possibly because less drug is absorbed. Levetiracetam is highly bioavailable, so the risk is likely lower but loss of seizure control remains a concern.
How serious is the interaction between Levetiracetam and Orlistat?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor for increased seizure frequency after orlistat is started. Consider avoiding orlistat in patients with poorly controlled epilepsy.
What other medicines interact with Levetiracetam?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Levetiracetam with, for example, Oliceridine, Opium tincture, Sodium oxybate. The full list is on the Levetiracetam page.
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