What You Should Know About Briviact Side Effects

Every medication has side effects, and Briviact (Brivaracetam) is no exception. The good news is that most people who take Briviact tolerate it well, and the most common side effects tend to be mild and often improve over time.

This article covers what the FDA labeling says about Briviact side effects, which ones are common, which ones are serious, and when you should contact your doctor right away.

What Is Briviact?

Briviact is a prescription antiepileptic drug used to treat partial-onset (focal) seizures. It works by binding to a protein in the brain called SV2A, which helps regulate how nerve cells release signals. For a deeper explanation, see our guide on how Briviact works.

Briviact is available as tablets (10 mg to 100 mg), an oral solution, and an IV injection. It's approved for adults and children as young as 1 month old. For full details on dosing and uses, check out What Is Briviact?

Common Side Effects of Briviact

The following side effects are the ones most frequently reported in clinical trials. They tend to occur early in treatment or when the dose is increased, and many improve as your body adjusts:

• Drowsiness and sedation — This is the most commonly reported side effect. You may feel unusually sleepy, especially during the first few weeks. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how Briviact affects you.
• Dizziness — Feeling lightheaded or unsteady is common. It usually gets better over time but can be worse if you stand up quickly.
• Fatigue — General tiredness beyond normal sleepiness. This may affect your energy levels throughout the day.
• Nausea and vomiting — Some patients experience stomach upset, especially when first starting the medication. Taking Briviact with food may help.
• Balance and coordination problems — You may notice difficulty with walking or fine motor tasks. Let your doctor know if this becomes bothersome.

These side effects are usually dose-related, meaning they're more likely at higher doses. If they're significantly affecting your quality of life, your doctor may be able to adjust your dose.

Serious Side Effects and Warnings

While less common, Briviact can cause serious side effects that require medical attention. Contact your doctor immediately — or go to the emergency room — if you experience any of the following:

Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior

All antiepileptic drugs, including Briviact, carry an FDA warning about an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. This risk applies to all patients, not just those with a history of depression. Watch for:

• New or worsening depression
• Unusual changes in mood or behavior
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• Anxiety, agitation, or restlessness

If you or a family member notice any of these changes, contact your doctor right away. Do not stop taking Briviact on your own — stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal seizures.

Psychiatric Symptoms

Some patients experience psychiatric side effects beyond mood changes, including:

• Irritability and aggression
• Anxiety
• Psychotic symptoms (hallucinations, paranoia)
• Depression

These can occur at any point during treatment. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose or consider alternative medications.

Allergic Reactions (Hypersensitivity)

Although rare, some patients have experienced serious allergic reactions to Briviact, including:

• Bronchospasm (difficulty breathing, wheezing)
• Angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat)

If you have any signs of a severe allergic reaction, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Withdrawal Seizures

Never stop taking Briviact suddenly. Abruptly discontinuing any antiepileptic drug can cause an increase in seizure frequency or even status epilepticus (a life-threatening prolonged seizure). Your doctor will taper your dose gradually if you need to stop.

Side Effects in Specific Populations

Children

Briviact is approved for children as young as 1 month old. Side effects in pediatric patients are generally similar to those in adults, with drowsiness and irritability being the most common.

Older Adults

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the sedative effects of Briviact. Doses may need to be adjusted, and extra caution is advised regarding fall risk.

Patients With Liver Problems

Briviact is processed by the liver, and patients with hepatic impairment need dose adjustments at all stages. If you have liver disease, make sure your doctor is aware before starting Briviact.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Briviact should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the risk. Patients should not breastfeed while taking Briviact. Talk to your doctor if you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How to Manage Side Effects

Here are some practical tips for dealing with Briviact side effects:

• Give it time — Many side effects improve after the first few weeks as your body adjusts. Don't give up too quickly.
• Take it with food — If nausea is a problem, taking Briviact with a meal or snack may help.
• Adjust your schedule — If drowsiness is an issue, ask your doctor about taking a larger portion of your dose at bedtime.
• Stay hydrated — Drinking plenty of water can help with fatigue and dizziness.
• Avoid alcohol — Alcohol increases the sedative effects of Briviact and should be avoided. See our guide on Briviact drug interactions for more.
• Talk to your doctor — If side effects are affecting your daily life, your doctor can adjust your dose (Briviact can go as low as 25 mg twice daily) or discuss other options.

Final Thoughts

Most people who take Briviact experience only mild side effects that improve over time. The key is to know what's normal, what's not, and when to get help. Keep an open line of communication with your doctor, report any new or worsening symptoms, and never stop taking Briviact without medical guidance.

If you're looking for Briviact and having trouble finding it at your pharmacy, Medfinder can help you locate pharmacies with it in stock near you.