There are several possible side effects of
Topamax® (
topiramate), and a change in weight appears to be one of the most common reactions to the drug. In clinical studies, weight loss was reported as a side effect in up to 16 percent of adults and up to 21 percent of children. Although weight loss may be a desirable side effect for some children and teens, too much can be a problem for growing bodies.
Although it is not approved for weight loss, Topamax may be prescribed "
off-label" for this use. In general, however, this drug is not considered a good choice for weight loss due to side effects such as memory loss or difficulty concentrating. These problems can make it difficult to tolerate Topamax.
A few studies have shown that the medication is effective for treating obesity (especially in people with
type 2 diabetes), but these studies generally concluded that the side effects were not necessarily worth the benefits.
If you are using Topamax and weight change becomes a problem, make sure to talk to your healthcare provider. He or she may look for other causes of the weight loss or recommend a different medication.
(Click Topamax Weight Loss for more information on why Topamax causes a change in weight. This article also explains why some healthcare providers may prescribe the drug off-label for obesity and describes potential risks.)
