This is excellent research about certain side effects from Levetiracetam (brand name “Keppra”). Looking at 290 patients with epilepsy (seizure disorders), the research found that certain genetic variances can predispose them to “psychotropic” behaviors including aggression and irritability. They also found that a combination of genetic variances and the sex of a male increased the potential for aggressive behaviors and irritability. What this research suggests, is that if you or your loved one took Keppra or Levetiracetam and experienced increased irritability and/or aggression, there may be underlying healing opportunities to identify and address. Allow me to explain.
Patients that tested positive for COMT variances and Dopamine b Hydroxylase (DBH) demonstrated the highest levels of irritability and aggression. Both of these variants impact and essentially block the conversion from dopamine to noradrenaline/adrenaline. This forces dopamine to buildup in excess which can be neurotoxic and deplete glutathione, the body’s major antioxidant. When dopamine is in excess, it sits in neural vessels and can cause significant damage, impacting the adrenals and creating an overactive stress response. This is critical especially because we understand that dopamine excess can create seizures.
Interestingly, the study further noted that males, that tested positive for either the COMT or the DBH (heterozygous or homozygous) or both variances, had an even greater risk of showing irritability and aggression.
Further, the impairments of the enzyme occur not only from COMT and the dopamine b Hydroxylase variances but also from infections, such as clostridia. If an individual presents with elevated clostridia and impaired dopamine b hydroxylase (both can be interpreted through an organic acids test (OAT)) the increased risk of a buildup of dopamine can increase exponentially. It is critical in this situation to address the infection and ensure that adequate co-factors/nutrients are in place, such as copper and vitamin c.
Again, if you notice that you or your loved one, when taking Keppra showed increased volatility, understand that there may be greater insight. Share your experience with a qualified practitioner, test with an organic acids test, and explore genetic variances.
Bringing much light,
Lynn
