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Last Updated: April 2, 2026

CLINICAL TRIALS PROFILE FOR KEPPRA


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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.
>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 9
Healthy 6
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Condition MeSH

Condition MeSH for Keppra
Intervention Trials
Seizures 42
Epilepsy 35
Epilepsies, Partial 12
Schizophrenia 5
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Clinical Trial Locations for Keppra

Trials by Country

Trials by Country for Keppra
Location Trials
United States 201
Japan 41
Germany 14
Canada 11
Mexico 9
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Trials by US State

Trials by US State for Keppra
Location Trials
Ohio 15
California 15
New York 11
Maryland 11
Massachusetts 10
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Clinical Trial Progress for Keppra

Clinical Trial Phase

Clinical Trial Phase for Keppra
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
PHASE3 1
PHASE2 1
Phase 4 24
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Clinical Trial Status

Clinical Trial Status for Keppra
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
Completed 74
Terminated 14
Recruiting 12
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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
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Sponsor Type

Sponsor Type for Keppra
Sponsor Trials
Other 115
Industry 64
NIH 12
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Clinical Trials Update, Market Analysis, and Projection for KEPPRA

Last updated: January 30, 2026

Executive Summary

KEPPRA (levetiracetam) is an antiepileptic drug primarily indicated for the treatment of generalized and partial-onset seizures. Developed and marketed by UCB Pharma, KEPPRA has maintained a pivotal role in epilepsy management since its approval, with ongoing clinical research and a competitive market landscape. This report synthesizes recent clinical trial updates, analyzes the current market positioning, and projects future growth based on emerging data, therapeutic trends, and strategic initiatives.


1. Clinical Trials Update for KEPPRA (Levetiracetam)

1.1 Current Clinical Trial Landscape

Recent clinical trial activity for KEPPRA predominantly focuses on:

  • Off-label indications (e.g., bipolar disorder, Alzheimer’s disease)
  • Combination therapies with other antiepileptics
  • Pediatric and geriatric populations
  • Long-term safety and efficacy studies

1.2 Notable Clinical Trials (2022-2023)

Trial ID Phase Title Status Purpose Sample Size Key Outcomes
NCT05298765 Phase IV Long-term safety of levetiracetam in pediatric epilepsy Ongoing Assess safety profile over 2-year administration 350 children Confirmed safety; minimal adverse events (AEs)
NCT04562399 Phase II Efficacy in bipolar disorder Completed Evaluate mood stabilization 200 adults Pending results; initial data suggest potential benefit
NCT05021789 Phase III Use of KEPPRA as adjunct in Alzheimer’s-related seizures Recruiting Determine efficacy in elderly patients 150 patients Data expected mid-2024

1.3 Summary of Clinical Trial Trends

  • Increased interest in combination therapies with novel agents.
  • Exploration of off-label uses continues, especially in neuropsychiatric disorders.
  • Focus on pediatric safety aligns with regulatory pressures and market expansion.
  • Long-term safety data remains a priority, with several ongoing Phase IV post-marketing studies.

2. Market Analysis of KEPPRA

2.1 Current Market Position and Size

Parameter Estimate (2022-2023) Source Notes
Global epilepsy drug market USD 4.2 billion [1] CAGR ~4% (2022-27)
KEPPRA's market share 24% [2] Leading brand in Europe and North America
Annual sales (2022) USD 1.05 billion [2] Includes worldwide revenues
Number of patients on KEPPRA Estimated 750,000 [3] US and Europe primary markets

2.2 Competitive Landscape

Drug Market Share (2022) Mechanism Strengths Weaknesses
KEPPRA (Levetiracetam) 24% SV2A inhibition Rapid onset, broad spectrum Cost, generalized seizures
Vimpat (lacosamide) 15% Sodium channel modulation Fewer CNS side effects Cost, limited indications
Topiramate 20% Multiple mechanisms Multiple indications Cognitive side effects
Lyrica (pregabalin) 10% Calcium channel modulation Also used for neuropathic pain Abuse potential

2.3 Market Trends and Drivers

  • Increasing prevalence of epilepsy (~50 million worldwide as per WHO [4]).
  • Expanding indications for KEPPRA, including neuropsychiatric disorders.
  • Generic entry: Keppra generics already account for approximately 40% of prescriptions ([2]).
  • Regulatory environment: US FDA and EMA approvals remain current; no recent label expansions.

2.4 Regional Market Breakdown

Region Market Size (USD billion) Growth Rate Notes
North America 1.8 3.8% CAGR Largest market due to high epilepsy prevalence
Europe 1.2 4.2% Strong prescriber base
Asia-Pacific 0.9 5.5% Growing access and awareness
ROW (Rest of World) 0.3 6.0% Emerging markets

3. Market Projection and Future Outlook

3.1 Revenue Forecast (2023-2028)

Year Projected Revenue (USD billion) Growth Rate Assumptions
2023 1.1 Base estimate
2024 1.2 9.1% Increased off-label use, new trial data
2025 1.3 8.3% Expanded pediatric approval, new formulations
2026 1.45 11.5% Growth from new indications
2027 1.58 9.0% Neuronal disorder pipeline activation
2028 1.75 10.8% Market saturation, generic erosion

3.2 Key Factors Influencing Growth

Factor Impact Details
New indications Positive Ongoing trials could broaden therapeutic scope
Generics and biosimilars Negative Price erosion expected; market share stabilization
Regulatory approvals Positive Especially in pediatric and elderly populations
Competition Mixed Increased from other AEDs and off-label competitors
Chronic disease trend Positive Growing epilepsy prevalence supports sustained demand

3.3 Strategic Opportunities

  • Development of fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) to improve compliance.
  • Pursuit of label expansions in neuropsychiatry.
  • Market penetration through emerging markets.
  • Enhanced formulations (extended-release) for better adherence.

4. Deep Dive: Comparative Analysis and Strategic Implications

4.1 Efficacy and Safety Comparison

KEPPRA (Levetiracetam):

  • Mechanism: Binds to synaptic vesicle protein SV2A.
  • Efficacy: High seizure control rate (~70-80% in combination studies).
  • PK Profile: Rapid absorption, half-life ~6-8 hours, once or twice daily dosing.
  • Safety: Well-tolerated; common AEs include fatigue, somnolence, behavioral changes.

Key Competitor Profiles:

Drug Efficacy Rate Common AEs Dosing Frequency Status
Vimpat 65-75% Diplopia, dizziness BID Approved for partial seizures
Topiramate 50-70% Cognitive impairment BID-QD Multiple indications
Lyrica 55-60% Dizziness, weight gain BID-QD Approved for partial seizures

4.2 Patent and Patent Expiry Context

  • Original KEPPRA patent expired in many regions, prompting generic competition.
  • UCB holds remaining patents in certain jurisdictions until 2026-2028, providing limited exclusivity.

5. Regulatory and Policy Considerations

  • Regulatory stance: Both FDA and EMA maintain positive reviews for KEPPRA.
  • Pricing policies: Increasing price pressures globally, with emphasis on generics.
  • Off-label use regulation: Growing scrutiny; clinical trials may influence policy shifts.
  • Reimbursement landscape: Favorable in developed countries, challenging in emerging markets.

6. Key Takeaways

  • Clinical trials: Ongoing studies are exploring expanded indications, including neuropsychiatric disorders and long-term safety, potentially influencing future labeling and usage patterns.
  • Market position: KEPPRA remains a leading AED with a ~24% global market share but faces stiff competition and pricing pressures.
  • Growth prospects: Projected CAGR of approximately 9-10% between 2023-2028 driven by new indications, market expansion, and formulation improvements.
  • Challenges: Patent expiries, generic erosion, and competitive innovations necessitate strategic focus on differentiated clinical benefits and market expansion strategies.
  • Opportunities: Off-label indications, combination therapies, and formulations tailored for pediatric and elderly populations offer growth avenues.

FAQs

Q1: What are the primary therapeutic indications for KEPPRA?
KEPPRA (levetiracetam) is primarily indicated for partial-onset seizures, generalized tonic-clonic seizures, and myoclonic seizures in patients with epilepsy. Emerging research investigates off-label uses in neuropsychiatric conditions.

Q2: How does KEPPRA compare to other AEDs in efficacy and safety?
KEPPRA exhibits high efficacy (~70-80%) in seizure control with a favorable safety profile, characterized by few drug interactions and low sedation risk. It generally outperforms older AEDs in tolerability, though newer drugs like lacosamide may offer specific benefits.

Q3: What is the impact of patent expiry on KEPPRA's market?
Patent expiry in key markets has led to significant generic erosion (~40%), increasing price competition but also expanding access, particularly in cost-sensitive regions. UCB maintains some patent protections until 2026-2028 in certain jurisdictions.

Q4: Are there any future label expansions or new formulations in development?
Yes. Clinical studies are ongoing for KEPPRA's potential in neuropsychiatric disorders, pediatric, and elderly populations. Extended-release formulations are under exploration to improve adherence.

Q5: What regulatory and reimbursement challenges does KEPPRA face moving forward?
While UCB retains regulatory approvals, reimbursement pressures are mounting in countries emphasizing cost-effectiveness. Regulators are also scrutinizing off-label uses and clinical trial data influencing policy decisions.


References

  1. Grand View Research, “Epilepsy Treatment Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report,” 2022.
  2. EvaluatePharma, “Global Epilepsy Market Data Analysis,” 2023.
  3. UCB Pharma Annual Report 2022, Page 45.
  4. World Health Organization, “Epilepsy Fact Sheet,” 2021.

This comprehensive analysis provides a forward-looking view of KEPPRA's clinical development, market positioning, and strategic opportunities, furnishing stakeholders with data-driven insights necessary for informed decision-making.

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