Keppra (Levetiracetam) Medicare Coverage

Keppra is used to treat focal onset and generalized onset seizures. Keppra is a medication that contains the active ingredient Levetiracetam.

Immediate-release forms of Keppra (tablet, liquid or injection) are typically taken twice daily, while extended release formulations (tablet) are taken once daily.

Common side effects of Keppra include diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, stuffy nose, upset stomach, headache and flu-like symptoms.

How much does Levetiracetam cost with Medicare?

Levetiracetam coverage and costs may vary based on the specific plan you have, as well as what coverage stage you're in.

Contact your plan carrier or consult your plan formulary for more cost information.

Does Medicare cover Levetiracetam?

According to GoodRx, 100% of Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D plans covered Levetiracetam, the generic form of Keppra, in 2023.¹

• Medicare Advantage plans or Part D plans that cover Levetiracetam include copay amounts that can range widely from one plan to another. Plan members may also be responsible for meeting a deductible before the plan’s drug coverage kicks in.
  
  
• Medicare Advantage plans that offer prescription drug coverage are called Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans (MA-PD). 89% of 2023 Medicare Advantage plans included prescription drug coverage.²
  
  
• Medicare prescription drugs plans each have their own formulary, or drug list, that details what prescription drugs are covered by the plan and how they are covered.

Drug coverage may vary based on plan availability. You may be able to find Medicare Advantage plan options in your area that cover Levetiracetam. We represent carriers such as Humana, Aetna, UHC, Anthem BCBS, Wellcare, Cigna Healthcare, and Kaiser Permanente.

You can also compare Part D prescription drug plans available where you live and enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan online when you visit MyRxPlans.com.

Additional information

Keppra can be taken with or without food. Try to take it at the same time of day every day.

If you use the oral disintegrating tablet, do not swallow, chew, break or crush it. Do not use any tablets that have been chipped or broken.

If you have trouble using the disintegrating tablet, you can dissolve it in 1 tablespoon of water and swallow right away.

Seizures can worsen or occur more frequently if Keppra is stopped suddenly without instructions from your doctor. Severe swelling has occurred while taking Keppra, including swelling of the hands, face, lips, eyes, tongue or throat. Get medical help immediately if you experience these symptoms.

It is important to note that Keppra can increase suicidal tendencies, especially in individuals that have experienced this before. Call the doctor immediately if depression occurs or worsens, or if you feel other anxiety or suicidal symptoms.

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not healthcare advice, treatment, or diagnosis. It is not an endorsement of or recommendation for this medication. Speak to your doctor or healthcare provider about your specific healthcare needs, including your prescription medications. Only take medication as directed by your doctor.

Coverage and costs of prescription medications will vary by Medicare plan. Not all plans are available in all areas.

Written by Hayden Gharibyar, Pharm.D.