Topamax
® (
topiramate) is a prescription medication used to treat various conditions that affect the nervous system.
Topamax is made by Ortho-McNeil Neurologics.
What Is Topamax Used For?
Specific uses for the medication include:
It is not entirely clear how this medication works for
epilepsy or
migraines. An epileptic
seizure occurs as the result of abnormal electrical signals in the brain. Topamax slows down those signals, helping to prevent
seizures. The medication also works similarly for
migraine headaches. It is thought that
migraines may be triggered by nerve cells in the brain that are too easily excited. Topamax helps calm the nerve cells, working to prevent a migraine from ever starting.
In studies, Topamax increased the time until the next seizure and decreased the number of seizures. In one study of adults with epilepsy, approximately 75 percent of people taking 400 mg of the drug per day were seizure-free for at least one year.
In one study of Topamax for preventing migraines, 200 mg per day reduced the average number of migraines from 5.5 per month to 3.1 per month.
Some general considerations for when and how to take Topamax include the following:
- The medication comes in tablets or "sprinkle" capsules. It is taken by mouth, usually twice a day.
- The sprinkle capsules can be opened and the contents sprinkled on a spoonful of soft food and swallowed (not chewed) immediately.
- You can take Topamax with or without food.
- The medication should be taken at the same times each day to maintain an even level in your blood.
- For Topamax to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. The medication will not work if you stop taking it.
The dose of Topamax your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- Your age
- The medical condition being treated
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be taking.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, side effects can occur with Topamax. However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects include but are not limited to:
- Unusual sensations, such as burning or tingling (paresthesias)
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Mental and physical slowing down or delays
- Nervousness
- Upper respiratory infection (such as the common cold)
- Coordination problems
- Weight loss (see Topamax Weight Loss).
(Click Topamax Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report to your healthcare provider.)
You can also read about specific side effects in the following eMedTV articles:
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Topamax?
Talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking the drug if you have:
- Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
- Liver disease, such as liver failure or cirrhosis
- Kidney stones
- Glaucoma
- Severe respiratory conditions
- Severe diarrhea
- Any allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you may be taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
People who take too much Topamax may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Seizures
- Speech problems
- Blurred vision
- Thinking problems
- Lethargy
- Poor coordination
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Abdominal pain (stomach pain)
- Agitation
- Dizziness
- Depression.
If you happen to take too much, seek prompt medical attention.
How Should Topamax Be Stored?
Topamax should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Both tablets and capsules should be stored in an airtight container.
Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Topamax as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
The sprinkle capsules are available in two strengths:
- Topamax 15 mg
- Topamax 25 mg.
This medication is available in generic form
(see Generic Topamax for more information).
