Topamax
TopiramateIndications
- Topiramate is used to prevent and control seizures.
- It can also be used to prevent migraine headaches and reduce their frequency.
- Topiramate does not treat a migraine headache once it occurs.
- It is classified as an anticonvulsant or antiepileptic drug.
Dosage and administration
- Read Medication Guide and Patient Information Leaflet before taking topiramate.
- Take medication by mouth, with or without food, as directed by doctor.
- Swallow tablets whole to prevent bitter taste.
- Drink plenty of liquids to prevent kidney stones, unless instructed otherwise by doctor.
- Dosage based on medical condition and response to treatment.
- For children, dosage based on weight.
- Doctor will gradually increase dose to reduce side effects.
- May start with once daily dose and increase to twice daily for certain conditions.
- It may take weeks or months to reach optimal dose and get full benefit.
- Take medication regularly at the same times each day to maximize benefits.
- Do not stop taking medication without consulting doctor.
- Some conditions may worsen if drug is suddenly stopped.
- Consult doctor if condition lasts or worsens.
Side effects
- Tiredness, drowsiness, dizziness, loss of coordination, tingling of the hands/feet, loss of appetite, bad taste in your mouth, diarrhea, and weight loss may occur.
- Mental problems such as confusion, slowed thinking, trouble concentrating or paying attention, nervousness, memory problems, or speech/language problems may also occur.
- If any side effects last or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately.
- The benefit of taking the medication is considered to outweigh the risk of side effects.
- Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include signs of kidney stones, rapid breathing, irregular heartbeat, bone pain, broken bones, loss of consciousness, unusual bleeding/bruising.
- Anticonvulsants may rarely cause depression, suicidal thoughts/attempts, or other mental/mood problems.
- A serious eye problem can occur within one month of starting treatment, leading to permanent blindness if left untreated.
- Topiramate can rarely cause a serious metabolic problem, especially when taken with valproic acid, resulting in tiredness, vomiting, or mental changes.
- Seek immediate medical help if you experience symptoms of a serious allergic reaction such as rash, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
Precautions
- Before taking topiramate, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you have.
- This medication may contain inactive ingredients that could cause allergic reactions.
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, especially if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, kidney problems, liver problems, mental/mood problems, lung/breathing problems, metabolic imbalance, long-term diarrhea, or follow a ketogenic diet.
- Topiramate can cause dizziness or drowsiness, and alcohol or marijuana can worsen these effects.
- Avoid activities that require alertness until you can do them safely.
- This medication can make you sweat less and increase the risk of heat stroke.
- Take precautions in hot weather to avoid overheating.
- Inform your doctor or dentist about all medications you use before having surgery.
- Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of topiramate.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to dizziness caused by this medication.
- Use this medication during pregnancy only when necessary and discuss birth control options with your doctor.
- This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
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