What is a common central nervous system side effect of levetiracetam that clinicians monitor?

• A. Mood changes (depression, irritability) and somnolence.
• B. Gingival hyperplasia.
• C. Weight gain.
• D. Rash.

Answer: (A)

Levetiracetam commonly affects the central nervous system in ways that show up as mood changes and daytime drowsiness. Clinicians monitor these effects because they directly impact safety and daily functioning—somnolence can impair alertness and driving, while mood changes such as irritability, depression, or agitation can affect treatment adherence and overall well-being. In some patients, behavioral changes may be noticeable early in therapy and can warrant dose adjustment or closer psychiatric assessment.

Other listed effects are not typical CNS-related signs of this medication. Gingival hyperplasia is more associated with phenytoin, weight gain with other agents like valproate, and rash is a potential adverse effect with several antiseizure medications but not a defining CNS side effect of levetiracetam.