A 16-year-old patient in status epilepticus is given a levetiracetam loading dose of 40 mg/kg (maximum 3 g). The patient weighs 76 kg. What dose should be given?

A 16-year-old patient in status epilepticus is given a levetiracetam loading dose of 40 mg/kg (maximum 3 g). The patient weighs 76 kg. What dose should be given?

• A. 2400 mg
• B. 3000 mg
• C. 4000 mg
• D. 2800 mg

Answer: (B)

Levetiracetam has a loading dose of 40 mg per kilogram up to a maximum of 3 g. Multiply the patient’s weight by the per-kilogram dose: 40 mg × 76 kg = 3040 mg. Since the maximum allowed is 3000 mg, you administer 3000 mg (3 g). The cap prevents giving more than the approved ceiling even though the weight-based calculation would suggest 3040 mg. If the calculated dose were less than 3 g, you would give that exact amount.

Levetiracetam has a loading dose of 40 mg per kilogram up to a maximum of 3 g. Multiply the patient’s weight by the per-kilogram dose: 40 mg × 76 kg = 3040 mg. Since the maximum allowed is 3000 mg, you administer 3000 mg (3 g). The cap prevents giving more than the approved ceiling even though the weight-based calculation would suggest 3040 mg. If the calculated dose were less than 3 g, you would give that exact amount.