The effects of levetiracetam on alcohol consumption in alcohol-dependent subjects: an open label study.

Author(s): Sarid-Segal O, Piechniczek-Buczek J, Knapp C, Afshar M, Devine E, Sickles L, Uwodukunda E, Richambault C, Koplow J, Ciraulo D

Affiliation(s): Division of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts 02118, USA.

Publication date & source: 2008, Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse., 34(4):441-7.

Publication type: Randomized Controlled Trial; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

The aim of this open-label pilot study was to assess the efficacy and safety of the novel anticonvulsant agent, levetiracetam, for the treatment of alcohol dependence. A maximal dose of 2000 mg was administered daily for 10 weeks to alcohol dependent subjects (n = 20). Mean reported ethanol intake declined significantly from 5.3 to 1.7 standard drinks per day. Levetiracetam was well tolerated by most subjects.