What is Brivace 100mg?

Brivace 100mg Tablets contain Brivaracetam 100mg — a third-generation antiepileptic drug (AED) manufactured by Hilton Pharma. Brivaracetam is a selective, high-affinity ligand for synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A). It is prescribed as adjunct (add-on) therapy — and in some settings as monotherapy — for partial-onset (focal) seizures in adults and adolescents aged 16 years and above. Brivace 100mg is the standard to higher-dose strength for established patients requiring full therapeutic dosing.

How Does Brivace Work?

Brivaracetam binds with high selectivity and affinity to SV2A — a synaptic vesicle glycoprotein involved in the modulation of neurotransmitter exocytosis at nerve terminals. By binding SV2A, it dampens the abnormal burst-firing of overactive neurons that generates seizures, without significantly affecting normal neuronal activity. Brivaracetam has approximately 15–30-fold higher binding affinity for SV2A than levetiracetam (Keppra), its predecessor, and has improved CNS penetration. Clinically, some patients who experience psychiatric/behavioural side effects with levetiracetam tolerate brivaracetam better.

Uses of Brivace 100mg

Brivace 100mg is indicated for: adjunct therapy for partial-onset seizures (with or without secondary generalisation) in adults and adolescents ≥16 years, patients not adequately controlled on other AEDs, and as a switching option for patients intolerant to levetiracetam.

Dosage & Administration

Typical dosing: 50mg twice daily (100mg/day) as the recommended maintenance dose. The dose may be adjusted between 25mg and 200mg/day based on seizure control and tolerability, as directed by a neurologist. Brivace can be taken with or without food. Swallow tablets whole — do not crush or chew. Do not abruptly stop — always taper under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal seizures.

Side Effects

Common: somnolence, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting. Neuropsychiatric effects (irritability, anxiety, depression) occur less frequently than with levetiracetam. Monitor for mood changes and suicidal ideation — a known risk class across all antiepileptic drugs. Report significant behavioural changes to your neurologist promptly.

Precautions

Brivace must not be stopped suddenly — abrupt discontinuation can precipitate breakthrough seizures. Dosage reduction is needed in hepatic impairment. Not recommended for children under 16 years for this indication. Patients should not drive or operate machinery until seizure control is established and they know how Brivace affects them. Monitor for signs of depression or suicidal ideation during treatment. This is a prescription (Rx) medicine — use only under neurological supervision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How is Brivace different from Levetiracetam (Keppra)?
A: Both bind SV2A, but Brivaracetam has ~15–30× higher binding affinity and better CNS penetration. It also shows fewer psychiatric/behavioural side effects in some patients compared to levetiracetam. Explore our Anti-Epileptic collection for the full range.

Q: Can Brivace 100mg be used as monotherapy?
A: Brivaracetam is primarily licensed as adjunct therapy, though emerging evidence supports its use as monotherapy in some settings. Discuss with your neurologist for your specific case.

Q: Is it safe to stop Brivace suddenly?
A: No — never stop abruptly. Sudden cessation can trigger rebound seizures. Your neurologist will guide a gradual taper. Compare dosing options: Brivace 25mg | Brivace 50mg.