Epilepsy meds

[storm1688]

I am currently on 1000 mg of Keppra a day for un known sezuires.  Are there any documented case's of reactions with Keppra & a flu shot???

I am also in kidney failure so I MUST get the flu shot. I have even requested to be taken off my Keppra and Have been lowered to 500 mg. a day.

#1. any known reactions with Keppra & flu shots?

#2. if I come off the Keppra, how long will the Keppra stay in my system? When should all traces of it be gone so I can get my shot?

#3. if off Keppra & then recive shot, how long after shot should I wait to go back on Keppra?

I have read that flu shots with anti convulsunts can have a reaction of toxicity for up to 28 days after the shot.

I am very fearful of not getting the shot, but even more fearful of what it might do to me. I have gotten one every year for over 30 years, the Keppra is just new.
What to other ill patients do that are on these medications & cant recive the flu shot? How do they protect themselves??

Thank you

[Rita91]

A related discussion, Keppra Levels was started.

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-SH]

First of all, keep in mind that I am unable to diagnose you because I am unable to examine you, this forum is for educational purposes.    
   There are not any reports to my knowledge of reactions of Keppra and the flu-shot.  Medications do not need to be stopped to get the flu-shot.  The only medications that could cause potential problems would be immunosuppressive medications such as prednisone, cell-cept, cytoxan etc. or immunosuppressive conditions such as HIV/aids.  Keppra is perfectly safe to take while getting the flu-shot.  Because of your kidney failure problems, the Keppra will stay in your blood longer than in the normal person (66% is secreted in the urine).  I would suggest that you get your flu shot.  I would also recommend that your doctor check a keppra level, due to your kidney disease.
I hope this has been helpful.

[jan]

You might want to ask on this forum, too.  There aren't any drs., but a lot of experienced/educ. epilepsy patients.  They were very friendly and helpful to me.

http://brain.hastypastry.net/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=144