Compare Imitrex vs. Keppra
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.
Treats migraine headaches.
Imitrex (Sumatriptan) is an excellent choice for acute migraine relief, but you might need another medication to prevent headaches.
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3.9/ 5 average rating with 31 reviewsforImitrex
Prevents seizures.
Keppra (levetiracetam) is effective for preventing seizures in people with epilepsy and has fewer drug interactions than its alternatives.
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4.5/ 5 average rating with 21 reviewsforKeppra
Upsides
- Comes in several forms. Ask your doctor if you should use the pill, nasal spray, patch, or injection.
- A combination of forms can be used if symptoms do not improve.
- The nasal spray and injectable forms work very quickly.
- It's generally safe to use if you are pregnant.
- Comes in a generic form, so it can be pretty cheap.
- Keppra (levetiracetam) is effective at lowering the frequency of various types of seizures.
- Keppra (levetiracetam) is available in liquid form or dissolving tablets if you have trouble swallowing pills.
- Compared to other seizure medications, Keppra (levetiracetam) has fewer side effects and drug interactions, and usually does not require monitoring blood levels.
Downsides
- The oral and nasal versions of Imitrex (Sumatriptan) have an unpleasant after-taste.
- Does not prevent migraine headaches; it only treats them once they start.
- Must wait 1 hour before using second injection.
- Can cause rebound (more) headaches if Imitrex (Sumatriptan) is used too often.
- Need to have your blood pressure checked often, especially if you're pregnant.
- Must be taken on time so that there are consistent levels of the drug in your body.
- Keppra (levetiracetam) may not be the best drug to take if you have a history of mood problems, such as depression or bipolar disorder.
- If you have kidney problems, your dose will need to be adjusted and your doctor will check your kidney function regularly.
- Due to its effects on your balance, Keppra (levetiracetam) may not be appropriate for the elderly.
Used for
- Myoclonic epilepsy
- Partial seizures
- Grand mal seizure
- Status epilepticus
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Injection
- Nasal spray
- Pill
- Extended release
- Liquid
- Oral disintegrating tablet
Price
Lowest price
$12.76
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$9.00
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Reviews
31 reviews so far
74%
saidit'sworth it
68%
saiditworked well
19%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Imitrex (Sumatriptan)?
Leave a review21 reviews so far
33%
saidit'sworth it
81%
saiditworked well
33%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Keppra (levetiracetam)?
Leave a reviewSide effects
6possible side effects
- Pain and other pressure sensations6%
- Atypical sensations5%
- Paresthesia (all types)3%
- Sensation warm/cold3%
- Pain - location specified2%
- Malaise/fatigue2%
13possible side effects
- Drowsiness12%
- Neck pain8%
- Inflammation of the back of throat7%
- Feeling off balance5%
- Flu symptoms5%
- Depression5%
- Anxiety3%
- Depressed mood2%
- Double vision2%
- Excessive sleepiness2%
- Difficulty sleeping2%
- Irritability2%
- Nervousness2%
Risks and risk factors
- Tightening of blood vessels (myocardial angina, ischemia, or infarction)
- History of heart problems
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Being overweight or obese
- Smoking
- Stroke
- History of heart problems
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Being overweight or obese
- Smoking
- Stomach bleeding
- Serotonin syndrome
- Patients taking SSRIs and SNRIs
- High blood pressure
- History of high blood pressure
- Seizures
- History of seizures
- Life-threatening skin reactions
- Suicidal thoughts or behavior
- Driving impairment
- Taking with alcohol
- Taking other medicines that make you less alert
- Blood disorders
- Withdrawal seizures
- Stopping Keppra (levetiracetam) suddenly
- Psychiatric side effects
- History of psychiatric problems
- Ages less than 18