You're using a free limited version of DrugPatentWatch: Upgrade for Complete Access

Last Updated: March 15, 2025

CLINICAL TRIALS PROFILE FOR KEPPRA


✉ Email this page to a colleague

« Back to Dashboard


All Clinical Trials for Keppra

Trial ID Title Status Sponsor Phase Start Date Summary
NCT00015769 ↗ Pilot Study of Levetiracetam (Keppra® (Registered Trademark)) for Bipolar Illness Completed National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Phase 2 2001-04-01 This study will explore the possible effectiveness of levetiracetam in patients with bipolar illness who have not responded adequately to standard treatments. Levetiracetam was recently approved to treat seizures. Other drugs in the same class as levetiracetam, including carbamazepine and valproate, are widely recognized as substitute medications for lithium or are used as an adjunct to it, and other anticonvulsants have also shown promise in improving bipolar symptoms. Patients with bipolar illness whose manic, depressed or unstable moods are not adequately controlled by their current treatment and who have not responded previously to two standard treatments (i.e., lithium, valproate, carbamazepine or neuroleptics) may be eligible for this study. Participants will take levetiracetam starting at 500 mg daily. If this dose is well tolerated, it will be increased to 500 mg twice a day. Every 3 days, doses may be increased until the target dose of 3000 mg/day is reached. Higher doses, not to exceed 4000 mg/day, may be tried in patients who do not respond fully to the lower doses. Patients and observers will use standard ratings to evaluate the patients' response to therapy during the 8-week study. If, after 8 weeks, the results appear promising, patients may continue treatment for an additional 6 months to evaluate longer-term effects.
NCT00076674 ↗ Levetiracetam Treatment of L-dopa Induced Dyskinesias Completed National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) Phase 2 2004-01-01 This study will evaluate the effects of levetiracetam (Keppra (Trademark) on Parkinson's disease symptoms and on dyskinesias (involuntary movements) that develop as a result of long-term treatment with levodopa. Levetiracetam blocks certain protein receptors on brain cells and thus can change the spread of brain signals believed to be affected in patients with Parkinson's disease. Patients between 30 and 80 years of age with relatively advanced Parkinson's disease and dyskinesias due to levodopa therapy may be eligible for this 6-week study. Screening and baseline evaluation - Participants are evaluated with a medical history, physical examination and neurologic evaluation, blood tests, urinalysis, electrocardiogram (EKG), 24-hour holter monitor (heart monitoring), and cardiology consultation. A chest x-ray and MRI or CT scan of the brain are done if needed. If possible, patients stop taking all antiparkinsonian medications except levodopa (Sinemet) for one month (2 months if taking Selegiline) before the study begins and throughout its duration. (If necessary, patients may use short-acting agents, such as Mirapex, Requip or Amantadine.) Dose-finding phase - Patients are admitted to the NIH Clinical Center for 2 to 3 days for a levodopa "dose-finding" procedure. For this test, patients stop taking Sinemet and instead have levodopa infused through a vein. During the infusions, the drug dose is increased slowly until parkinsonian symptoms improve or unacceptable side effects occur or the maximum study dose is reached. Symptoms are monitored frequently. (Patients who have had dosing infusions in the last 3 months do not have to undergo this phase of the study.) Active study phase - Patients are randomly assigned to take levetiracetam or placebo ("sugar pill") twice a day for 6 weeks. At the end of weeks 1, 2 4, and 5, patients come to the clinic for blood tests, an EKG, and a review of adverse side effects. At the end of weeks 3 and 6, patients are hospitalized to study the response to treatment. They again stop taking Sinemet and selegiline and their ability to perform motor tasks is evaluated. They are then placed on an L-dopa infusion for 10 hours. Placebo may be infused at various times instead of L-dopa. Motor symptoms are evaluated several times during the infusion. Blood is drawn once during the infusion for research studies. Lumbar puncture - Patients undergo a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) at the end of weeks 1 and 4 to measure certain brain chemicals and drug levels. For this test, a local anesthetic is given and a needle is inserted in the space between the vertebrae in the lower back. About 2 tablespoons of fluid is collected through the needle. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - Patients with changing disease activity may undergo MRIs at baseline, at the end of week 1 and at the end of the study to show changes in the brain. The patient lies in a narrow cylinder (the scanner) that uses radio waves and a magnetic field to produce images of the brain, which show structural and chemical changes. Follow-up - 2 weeks after the study ends, patients are contacted by phone for a review of side effects or they return to the clinic for an evaluation.
NCT00105040 ↗ A 19-week Cognition Study of Levetiracetam in Children With Partial Onset Seizures Completed UCB Pharma Phase 2 2004-09-01 A 12-week Evaluation Period will be used to characterize potential cognitive and neuropsychological effects of LEV (20 - 60 mg/kg/day), as adjunctive treatment in children 4 - 16 years old, inclusive, with refractory partial onset seizures when compared to adjunctive treatment with placebo.
NCT00141115 ↗ Levetiracetam for the Treatment of Alcohol Dependence and Anxiety Completed UCB Pharma Phase 2 2004-03-01 The purpose of this study is to determine if levetiracetam is effective in treating alcohol dependence in patients with anxiety symptoms. The researchers hypothesize that individuals are unable to reduce or discontinue alcohol use because of significant anxiety, mood, and sleep disturbance symptoms that accompany reduction in alcohol use.
NCT00141115 ↗ Levetiracetam for the Treatment of Alcohol Dependence and Anxiety Completed New York State Psychiatric Institute Phase 2 2004-03-01 The purpose of this study is to determine if levetiracetam is effective in treating alcohol dependence in patients with anxiety symptoms. The researchers hypothesize that individuals are unable to reduce or discontinue alcohol use because of significant anxiety, mood, and sleep disturbance symptoms that accompany reduction in alcohol use.
NCT00146471 ↗ Efficacy and Safety of Levetiracetam in the Inpatient Treatment of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome Completed Charite University, Berlin, Germany Phase 3 2006-01-01 The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of levetiracetam for treating alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) in inpatients (vs. placebo). The primary come-out parameter is the reduction of the total needed amount of diazepam for add-on treatment of acute alcohol withdrawal symptoms. The secondary come-out parameter are - safety criteria (AE) - reduction of alcohol withdrawal score over the days.
NCT00150709 ↗ A Study Of The Safety And Efficacy Of Levetiracetam (Keppra®) (Ucb L059) In Children With Epilepsy Completed UCB Pharma Phase 3 1998-02-01 The open-label study to allow pediatric patients who have participated in prior Levetiracetam (Keppra®) studies to continue their treatment with adequate monitoring and standardized follow-up care until Levetiracetam (Keppra®) is approved for use in children or until the completion of the development program for pediatrics.
>Trial ID >Title >Status >Phase >Start Date >Summary

Clinical Trial Conditions for Keppra

Condition Name

Condition Name for Keppra
Intervention Trials
Epilepsy 27
Epilepsy, Partial 9
Seizures 8
Healthy 6
[disabled in preview] 0
This preview shows a limited data set
Subscribe for full access, or try a Trial

Condition MeSH

Condition MeSH for Keppra
Intervention Trials
Seizures 40
Epilepsy 35
Epilepsies, Partial 12
Alcoholism 5
[disabled in preview] 0
This preview shows a limited data set
Subscribe for full access, or try a Trial

Clinical Trial Locations for Keppra

Trials by Country

Trials by Country for Keppra
Location Trials
United States 199
Japan 41
Germany 14
Canada 11
Mexico 9
This preview shows a limited data set
Subscribe for full access, or try a Trial

Trials by US State

Trials by US State for Keppra
Location Trials
California 15
Ohio 15
Maryland 11
New York 11
Tennessee 10
This preview shows a limited data set
Subscribe for full access, or try a Trial

Clinical Trial Progress for Keppra

Clinical Trial Phase

Clinical Trial Phase for Keppra
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
Phase 4 24
Phase 3 24
Phase 2/Phase 3 2
[disabled in preview] 63
This preview shows a limited data set
Subscribe for full access, or try a Trial

Clinical Trial Status

Clinical Trial Status for Keppra
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
Completed 74
Terminated 14
Recruiting 12
[disabled in preview] 16
This preview shows a limited data set
Subscribe for full access, or try a Trial

Clinical Trial Sponsors for Keppra

Sponsor Name

Sponsor Name for Keppra
Sponsor Trials
UCB Pharma 41
UCB Japan Co. Ltd. 7
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) 5
[disabled in preview] 14
This preview shows a limited data set
Subscribe for full access, or try a Trial

Sponsor Type

Sponsor Type for Keppra
Sponsor Trials
Other 113
Industry 64
NIH 12
[disabled in preview] 4
This preview shows a limited data set
Subscribe for full access, or try a Trial

Keppra (Levetiracetam): Clinical Trials, Market Analysis, and Projections

Overview of Keppra

Keppra, known generically as levetiracetam, is a small molecule therapeutic developed by UCB S.A. It is primarily used for the treatment of epilepsy and partial seizures, and has been approved in the U.S., European Union, and over 20 other countries[1].

Clinical Trials Update

Alzheimer's Disease Trials

Keppra is being investigated for its potential in treating Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). A Phase 2 study at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, which began in August 2019, aims to determine whether levetiracetam can normalize cortical hyperexcitability, brain network function abnormalities, and cognitive dysfunction in early AD patients. The study involves 85 participants aged 50-90 years with positive PET or CSF markers for brain amyloid and a Clinical Dementia Rating of 0.5–1.0. Participants receive either placebo, 250 mg, or 1000 mg of levetiracetam daily for four weeks, with a four-week washout period between treatments. The primary outcome measures include changes in neuropsychological test batteries, EEG, and other measures of cortical excitability and functional connectivity. This trial is set to end in November 2024[1].

Another Phase 2 trial at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, started in January 2020, is enrolling 65 participants with clinical AD and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Those with detectable epileptiform activity on EEG will receive 500 mg of levetiracetam twice a day for one year. The primary outcome is the change in the neuropsychiatric inventory, with secondary outcomes including changes in AD severity, quality of life, and cognitive ability. This trial is expected to end in mid-2025[1].

Epilepsy in Alzheimer’s Patients

A Phase 4 trial in China, initiated in July 2023, compares the effects of 125 mg levetiracetam to 100 mg of the antiepileptic drug lacosamide on cognition in Alzheimer’s patients with epilepsy. The study is enrolling 140 patients and uses multiple primary endpoints, including the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR), Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive (ADAS-Cog), and measures of anxiety and depression. Secondary outcomes include seizure frequency and EEG discharge. This trial is scheduled to end in December 2025[1].

Market Analysis

Global Epilepsy Drugs Market

The global epilepsy drugs market was valued at USD 10.15 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.1% from 2023 to 2030, reaching USD 15.35 billion by 2030. This growth is driven by the increasing prevalence of epilepsy, advancements in healthcare infrastructure, and the launch of new-generation anti-epileptic drugs[2].

Market Performance of Keppra

Keppra has been a significant player in the epilepsy treatment market but has faced challenges due to generic erosion. Despite losing exclusivity in the U.S. and Europe over a decade ago, Keppra still maintains a market presence, although its sales have been impacted by generic competition. In Japan, generic erosion started in early 2022 and was stronger than expected, leading to lower net sales. However, the erosion slowed down during the first half of 2023[2].

Keppra continues to serve over 1.7 million people living with epilepsy globally. The financial performance of Keppra has been affected by generic erosion, but UCB's overall strategy includes investing in new product launches to offset these losses[2].

Competitive Landscape

The epilepsy drugs market is highly competitive, with other second and third-generation anti-epileptics such as lamotrigine, brivaracetam, and perampanel gaining traction. These drugs are known for their high tolerability and safety, which can further challenge Keppra's market position[2].

Regional Performance

The Asia Pacific region, particularly countries like India and China, is expected to drive growth in the epilepsy drugs market due to increasing patient awareness and unmet medical needs. However, Keppra's performance in these regions may be influenced by the availability of generics and local market dynamics[2].

Price Projections and Market Trends

Impact of Generic Erosion

Generic erosion has significantly impacted Keppra's pricing and market share. As generics become more prevalent, the prices of branded drugs like Keppra tend to decrease to remain competitive. This trend is expected to continue, affecting the revenue generated by Keppra[2].

Future Outlook

Despite the challenges posed by generic erosion, the overall epilepsy drugs market is expected to grow. Factors such as increasing prevalence of epilepsy, government initiatives, and the launch of new drugs will drive market growth. However, Keppra's specific growth will be influenced by its ability to compete with newer and more innovative treatments[2].

UCB's Strategic Response

UCB is focusing on launching new products and investing in growth drivers to offset the losses from Keppra's generic erosion. This strategy includes strong launches of products like FINTEPLA, BIMZELX, and RYSTIGGO, which are expected to contribute significantly to UCB's revenue and profitability[2].

Clinical Efficacy of Keppra

Keppra has been shown to be effective in clinical studies. When used as a monotherapy for partial-onset seizures, Keppra was as effective as carbamazepine in keeping patients free of seizures. In studies, 73% of patients experienced no seizures for six months once on an adequate dose. As an add-on treatment, Keppra was more effective than placebo in reducing seizure frequency[4].

Side Effects and Contraindications

The most common side effects of Keppra include nasopharyngitis, somnolence, and headache. Keppra must not be used in people who are hypersensitive to levetiracetam or other pyrrolidone derivatives[4].

Key Takeaways

  • Clinical Trials: Keppra is being investigated for its potential in treating Alzheimer's disease and epilepsy in Alzheimer’s patients, with several ongoing Phase 2 and Phase 4 trials.
  • Market Size and Growth: The global epilepsy drugs market is growing, but Keppra's sales are impacted by generic erosion.
  • Generic Competition: Keppra faces significant competition from generics, especially in Japan, affecting its pricing and market share.
  • Regional Dynamics: The Asia Pacific region offers growth opportunities, but Keppra's performance will depend on local market conditions.
  • UCB's Strategy: UCB is diversifying its product portfolio to mitigate the impact of Keppra's generic erosion.

FAQs

Q: What is the current market size of the global epilepsy drugs market?

  • The global epilepsy drugs market was valued at USD 10.15 billion in 2022[2].

Q: How is Keppra affected by generic erosion?

  • Keppra has faced significant generic erosion, particularly in Japan, leading to lower net sales. This erosion has slowed down but continues to impact its market performance[2].

Q: Which regions are expected to drive growth in the epilepsy drugs market?

  • The Asia Pacific region, especially countries like India and China, is expected to drive growth due to increasing patient awareness and unmet medical needs[2].

Q: What is UCB's strategy to offset the losses from Keppra's generic erosion?

  • UCB is focusing on launching new products and investing in growth drivers like FINTEPLA, BIMZELX, and RYSTIGGO to offset the losses[2].

Q: How does the competitive landscape affect Keppra's market position?

  • The competitive landscape, with other second and third-generation anti-epileptics, challenges Keppra's market position due to their high tolerability and safety[2].

Sources

  1. ALZFORUM: Levetiracetam | ALZFORUM
  2. DrugPatentWatch: Drug prices and trends for KEPPRA - DrugPatentWatch
  3. BusinessWire: Research and Markets: PharmaPoint Drug Evaluation Report
  4. European Medicines Agency: Keppra | European Medicines Agency (EMA)
  5. GLOBE NEWSWIRE: Global Epilepsy Drugs Market 2013-2019 & 2025 by Drugs (Vimpat, Keppra, Sabril, Onfi, etc), Treatment Drugs Generation (First, Second, Third), Companies & Forecasts

More… ↓

⤷  Try for Free

Make Better Decisions: Try a trial or see plans & pricing

Drugs may be covered by multiple patents or regulatory protections. All trademarks and applicant names are the property of their respective owners or licensors. Although great care is taken in the proper and correct provision of this service, thinkBiotech LLC does not accept any responsibility for possible consequences of errors or omissions in the provided data. The data presented herein is for information purposes only. There is no warranty that the data contained herein is error free. thinkBiotech performs no independent verification of facts as provided by public sources nor are attempts made to provide legal or investing advice. Any reliance on data provided herein is done solely at the discretion of the user. Users of this service are advised to seek professional advice and independent confirmation before considering acting on any of the provided information. thinkBiotech LLC reserves the right to amend, extend or withdraw any part or all of the offered service without notice.