Levetiracetam for dogs and cats: is it the same as Keppra?

Levetiracetam is commonly prescribed for dogs and cats to help manage seizures and epilepsy, particularly in cases where additional seizure control is needed alongside other medications or where side effects need to be minimised.

This guide explains how it works, how it relates to Keppra, and how it is obtained legally in the UK.

To read more about managing epilepsy in dogs, check out our full guide here: Managing Epilepsy in Dogs

Is levetiracetam the same as Keppra?

Yes. Keppra is a brand name for levetiracetam, a medication used to manage seizures and epilepsy. Both contain the same active ingredient and work in the same way.

In veterinary medicine, levetiracetam is usually prescribed under its generic name rather than the brand Keppra. However, pet owners may see both names used interchangeably.

Any differences between products are typically related to formulation, cost, or availability rather than how the medication works.

What is levetiracetam used for in dogs and cats?

Levetiracetam is an anti-epileptic medication that works by stabilising electrical activity in the brain. It is widely used in veterinary medicine to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.

It may be prescribed for:

• Idiopathic epilepsy in dogs
• Seizure disorders in cats
• Cluster seizures or breakthrough seizures
• Adjunctive therapy alongside other anti-epileptic medications

Levetiracetam is often used in combination with other treatments and may be adjusted depending on your pet’s response.

How do I get levetiracetam for my pet?

Example packaging of levetiracetam (human medication used under the veterinary cascade)

Because levetiracetam (including branded versions such as Keppra) is used under the veterinary cascade, it must follow a regulated process:

1. Veterinary assessment

Your vet must assess your pet and determine that levetiracetam is appropriate for their condition.

2. A written prescription

Your vet can either dispense the medication directly or provide a written prescription.

3. Supply against a valid prescription

The medication is then supplied in accordance with UK regulations against a valid veterinary prescription.

Some owners may encounter difficulty obtaining levetiracetam (Keppra) depending on availability or formulation.

What if my dog is still having seizures on medication?

It can be concerning if your dog continues to have seizures despite treatment. In many cases, this does not mean the medication is ineffective, but that the treatment plan may need adjusting.

Your veterinary surgeon may consider:

• Adjusting the dose of existing medication
• Adding an additional anti-epileptic drug
• Changing the combination of medications used
• Further investigation into underlying causes

Levetiracetam is often introduced in these situations as an additional medication to help improve seizure control alongside other treatments.

Any changes to seizure medication should always be made under veterinary supervision.

Why is levetiracetam only available under the veterinary cascade?

Levetiracetam is not licensed for veterinary use in the UK and is prescribed under the veterinary cascade. This allows vets to use human medications when managing neurological conditions such as epilepsy.

Medicines supplied under the cascade must be prescribed by a veterinary surgeon and supplied in accordance with UK regulations.

Where can levetiracetam be obtained?

Once you have a valid prescription, levetiracetam may be obtained from a number of different sources.

• Your veterinary practice
• A UK-registered veterinary supplier operating in accordance with veterinary medicines regulations
• A human pharmacy dispensing against a veterinary prescription

Human pharmacies may dispense levetiracetam when presented with a valid veterinary prescription. However, they do not provide veterinary-specific clinical oversight, and may not be familiar with veterinary dosing, formulations, or treatment plans.

For many owners, this becomes particularly relevant when managing long-term conditions such as epilepsy, where consistency, formulation choice, and reliable ongoing supply can all play an important role.

Veterinary suppliers operate within the veterinary regulatory framework and are experienced in dispensing medicines for animal use under the prescribing cascade. This can be particularly important for medications such as levetiracetam, where dosing schedules, formulation choice, and ongoing management may vary between patients.

All legitimate suppliers must follow strict UK regulations set by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).

Why do prices vary between providers?

You may notice that the cost of levetiracetam differs between providers due to sourcing, overheads, and supply models.

Why do veterinary drug prices vary so much?

Common questions about levetiracetam for pets

Is levetiracetam safe for dogs and cats?

Levetiracetam is widely used in veterinary medicine and is generally well tolerated when prescribed appropriately. Side effects can occur and should be discussed with your vet.

Is Keppra the same as levetiracetam?

Yes. Keppra is a brand name for levetiracetam. In veterinary medicine, the generic name is more commonly used.

Can I buy levetiracetam without a prescription?

No. Levetiracetam cannot legally be supplied in the UK without a valid veterinary prescription.

What should I do if I miss a dose of levetiracetam?

If you miss a dose of levetiracetam, it’s generally recommended to give it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue as normal. You should not give a double dose.

If you are unsure, or if multiple doses have been missed, contact your veterinary surgeon for advice. Maintaining a consistent dosing schedule is important for effective seizure control.

Is levetiracetam used for epilepsy in dogs?

Yes. It is commonly used to manage epilepsy and reduce seizure frequency in dogs.

Can levetiracetam be used alongside other seizure medications?

Yes. It is often used alongside other anti-epileptic drugs as part of a multimodal treatment plan.