Why is Topamax prescribed?

Topamax is an antiepileptic drug, prescribed to control both the mild attacks known as partial seizures and the severe tonic-clonic convulsions known as grand mal seizures. It is typically added to the treatment regimen when other drugs fail to fully control a patient's attacks.

Topamax is also prescribed for the prevention of migraine headaches (also known as prophylactic treatment). However, due to a lack of studies, it's not known whether the drug can treat acute migraine attacks.

What side effects may occur?

Some side effects, such as fatigue, are more likely to surface with high doses of Topamax (Topiramate). Others occur regardless of dosage. While many tend to disappear after the first 8 weeks of therapy, it's still important to report them to your doctor. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Topamax.

• More common side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, weakness, tremors, tingling or burning sensations, speech problems, sore throat, slowing of movements, sinusitis, rash, nose inflammation, nervousness, nausea, mood problems, menstrual problems, loss of coordination, leg pain, language problems, indigestion, flu-like symptoms, fatigue, drowsiness, double vision, dizziness, difficulty with memory, difficulty with concentration, depression, constipation, confusion, chest pain, breast pain, back pain, appetite loss, anxiety, agitation, abnormal vision, abnormal coordination, weight loss

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

In animal studies, Topamax (Topiramate) has caused harm to the developing fetus, and its safety has not been verified in pregnant humans. It is recommended for use during pregnancy only if the doctor feels that its potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the infant.

This medication may appear in breast milk, and its possible effect on the nursing infant remains unknown. Check with your doctor if you plan to breastfeed your baby.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

For Seizures

Topamax (Topiramate) therapy usually begins with a dose of 50 milligrams once daily during the first week. The daily dosage is then increased each week until, by the eighth week, the patient is taking 200 milligrams twice a day.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Topamax (Topiramate)

If Topamax (Topiramate) is taken with certain other drugs, decreased, the effects of either could be increased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Topamax with:

Acetazolamide (Diamox)
Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
Dichlorphenamide (Daranide)
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Metformin (Glucophage)
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Oral contraceptives
Valproic acid (Depakene)

Topamax (Topiramate) can depress the central nervous system. Be extremely cautious about combining it with alcohol, tranquilizers, sedatives, and other central nervous system depressants.