Topamax for Seizures, Migraines and Weight Loss

Topamax, or Topiramate (toe-PIR-a-mate) is an anticonvulsant commonly prescribed alone or with other medications for seizure control, or for prevention of migraine headaches. Topamax is rarely prescribed off label for weight control.The term "off label" means that the drug is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but for not that specific use. Some physicians prescribe it away from that FDA approval listing, or off label, for weight loss in certain situations.

Topamax Dosing

Starting with a low dose and slowly increasing is the way in which this medication is usually introduced as a prescription for Topamax tablets or capsules. This medication is intended for long term use. It is increased to a maintenance dose slowly over a few weeks time.

Topamax Side Effects

According to Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. Database, Topamax, or Topiramate in generic formula tablet, has several common side effects. Most subside after a few weeks. If these side effects become extreme, or don't go away, the doctor should be notified and reassessment should be considered: forgetfulness, loss of appetite, dizziness, weight loss, mental slowing, confusion, unusual tiredness, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, numbness and tingling, decreased sweating, tiredness, or trouble sleeping.

The most common mild side effect is weight loss, which is not an issue for many people, but may need to be monitored especially close in children. Setting a mealtime schedule or alarm can help alleviate this lack of appetite or if forgetting to eat becomes an issue.

Less common side effects needing immediate attention, include: chest pain; severe loss of concentration; severe abdominal pain; significant weight loss; loss of coordination; severe memory problems; sudden vision changes; unusual eye movement; eye pain; eye redness; fast, deep breathing; unusual bruising or bleeding; unusual tiredness; irregular heartbeat; tremor; change in speech; new or worsening mental or mood changes; or suicidal thoughts or actions; or unexplained fever.

Topamax Contraindications

Patients with certain conditions and disorders should not take Topamax. Such a medical situation is called a contraindication. According to epilepsy.com, because of a higher risk of kidney stones, patients with kidney stone history or taking high dose vitamin C or calcium supplements should not use Topamax. Those with liver disorders also should not take Topamax.

Topamax Drug Interactions

Topamax has been tested with a number of common drugs and lifestyle foods. Alcohol consumption should be avoided, as all nervous system functions are depressed while using Topamax. Caution in attempting to operate machinery or driving is advised as well. Ten common drugs which may interact with Topamax include: Prozac (fluoxitine), Flexeril (cyclobenziprine), Seroquel (quetiapine), Zoloft (sertraline), Ambien (zolpidem), Cymbalta (duloxetine), Effexor XR (venlafazine), Lexapro (escitalopram), Lyrica (pregabalin), and Xanax (alprazolam). Other drugs may interact as well, so check with a licensed pharmacist and doctor against the medications in the patient's specific list before using Topamax.

Topamax Risks and Warnings

According to emedtv.com, Topamax commonly causes an electrolyte imbalance called metabolic acidosis, which can become severe if it lasts too long. Children with this disorder can develop stunted growth. Patients at high risk are those who recently had surgery, have diarrhea, kidney disease, liver disease, respiratory disease, and osteoporosis, are following an epilepsy diet or have rickets. Patients taking Topamax for long term therapy in seizure or migraine prevention should consult with their doctor about monitoring for possible development of this condition, which leads to kidney stones.

Medic Alert

From Lynn Pritchett's personal experience, please note that even if taking Topamax for a condition not related to seizure conditions, wearing a MedicAlert bracelet or necklace may save your life in a medical emergency. Contact MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).

Medical personnel need to know you are taking this seizure medication, no matter what purpose you are taking it for, because they may need to choose different drugs to help you based on the knowledge that you have Topamax in your blood stream. A MedicAlert bracelet or necklace will show important information when you cannot speak for yourself. Similar emergency emblem jewelry for children, men, and women are available at many pharmacies worldwide, from about $5.00 and up. They are a priceless investment.

Disclaimer

This online magazine article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace advice by licensed professional health practitioners. Always seek counsel on any health issue. The internet cannot replace professional knowledge and advice shared by a trusted, certified, licensed pharmacist, doctor, and/or nurse practitioner on this medical topic or any health concern, based on a patient's individual case needs.