[Symbol: see text] Levetiracetam is an ethyl analogue of the nootropic agent piracetam.[Symbol: see text] Results from rodent studies indicate that the drug may offer protection against absence, generalised and partial seizures.[Symbol: see text] Levetiracetam exhibits linear pharmacokinetics and has a wide therapeutic index. Its potential to interact with other anticonvulsants appears to be low.[Symbol: see text] Initial findings from a total of 29 patients with treatment-refractory epilepsy suggest that levetiracetam may be beneficial in patients with partial seizures. These results require confirmation.[Symbol: see text] Somnolence and asthenia were the most common adverse events reported in patients receiving levetiracetam 1000 to 4000 mg/day; these appeared to be dose-related.