Precautions
Topiramate is used for the treatment of partial-onset seizures, primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures, and seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome. It is also frequently prescribed "off-label" for other uses such as alcohol dependence, but this use is not approved by the FDA.
What is topiramate used to treat?
Topiramate is usually taken one or two times a day with or without food. Typically patients begin at a low dose of medicine and the dose is increased slowly over several weeks. The dose usually ranges from 25 mg to 400 mg.
How often should I take topiramate?
Medicine Assistance Tool and NeedyMeds are two websites that provide resources to help reduce the cost of topiramate oral tablets. These websites also offer tools to help you find low-cost healthcare and certain educational resources. To learn more, visit their websites.
How can I reduce the cost of topiramate oral tablets?
Is Topamax a pain reliever?
Topamax for pain Topamax isn't approved to treat pain. However, the drug may be used off-label to treat certain types of chronic pain. (Chronic pain is pain that lasts at least 12 weeks.) For example, studies have found Topamax to be effective in relieving chronic low back pain.
How long does Topamax take to work for nerve pain?
Official Answer. It may take 8 to 12 weeks for you to see the full effect of Topamax (topiramate) on your migraine headaches. In clinical studies, some people had fewer headaches after 4 weeks of treatment.
Does topiramate help you sleep?
Conclusions: Topiramate may be of benefit for patients with NES or SRED in reducing nocturnal eating, improving nocturnal sleep, and producing weight loss.
What are the main side effects of topiramate?
AdvertisementBlurred vision.burning, prickling, or tingling sensations.clumsiness or unsteadiness.continuous, uncontrolled back-and-forth or rolling eye movements.drowsiness.eye redness or pain.generalized slowing of mental and physical activity.increased eye pressure.More items...•
Is Topamax good for back pain?
Discussion. Topiramate seems to be a relatively safe and effective agent in the treatment of CLBP. Significantly positive changes in pain sensitivity, anger status and processing, subjective disability, health-related quality of life, and loss of weight were observed.
Does Topamax help with inflammation?
Topiramate modulates post-infarction inflammation primarily by targeting monocytes or macrophages. Cardiovasc Res.
What does topiramate do to the brain?
Topiramate affects the activity of two neurotransmitters in the brain. Neurotransmitters are natural chemicals that are involved in transmitting messages between the nerve cells. Topiramate enhances the action of GABA, which is a neurotransmitter that acts as a natural 'nerve calming' agent.
Does topiramate help anxiety?
The study found that the participants taking Topamax in addition to their prescribed depression medication significantly improved depressed mood, suicidality, insomnia, agitation, and anxiety symptoms compared to those taking a placebo.
Is topiramate a narcotic?
Topamax (generic name: topiramate) is not classified as a controlled substance under the U.S. Controlled Substances Act (CSA). Topamax is an anticonvulsant (seizure) medication, but is also prescribed for other conditions such as prevention of migraine.
Can topiramate cause permanent damage?
In most cases, side effects from Topamax are temporary. Most side effects tend to go away soon after you start or stop taking the drug. But severe side effects that could lead to long-term problems and permanent damage from Topamax are possible. For example, Topamax may cause eye side effects,* such as glaucoma.
What happens when you stop taking topiramate?
Common Topamax withdrawal symptoms include anger, anxiety, appetite changes, trouble concentrating, confusion, dehydration, depersonalization, depression, dizziness, fatigue, headaches, migraines, insomnia, irritability, mood swings, muscle pain, nausea, panic attacks, seizures, shaking, sweating, thought changes, ...
Why is topiramate used for weight loss?
Topamax causes weight loss because it affects the appetite. People who take it and have a reduced appetite may feel hungry less often and eat less because of this. Studies have shown that Topamax may also speed up metabolism, which means that the body burns calories more quickly.
Does topiramate cause weight loss?
Yes, topiramate (Topamax) has been shown to cause weight loss when used for both seizure control and migraine prevention. Topiramate by itself is n...
Does topiramate cause hair loss?
Yes, topiramate has been shown to cause hair loss in studies, but it is not a common side effect. Hair loss (also called alopecia) has been reporte...
How long do you stay on Topamax for migraines?
You can usually stay on Topamax (topiramate) to help prevent your migraine headaches as long as the treatment is needed and remains safe for you. Y...
How long does it take for Topamax to start working?
It may take 8 to 12 weeks for you to see the full effect of Topamax on your migraine headaches. In clinical studies, some people had fewer headache...
How long does Topamax stay in your system?
Topamax stays in your system for approximately 4 to 5 days after the last dose, but this may vary depending on personal factors, such as your age,...
How does Trokendi XR help with weight loss?
Trokendi (topiramate) XR can lead to weight loss when used for prevention of migraine headaches or seizures, but it is not approved as a weight los...
What is topiramate used for?
Topiramate is used for the treatment of partial-onset seizures, primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures, and seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome. It is also frequently prescribed "off-label" for other uses such as alcohol dependence, but this use is not approved by the FDA. Topiramate is classified as a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor ...
How does gABA work?
Experts think it works by quieting excessive nerve activity in the brain and central nervous system, increasing the actions of GABA, and blocking the effects of other chemical messengers (neurotransmitters).
What is topiramate used for?
Topiramate is a seizure medicine, also called an anticonvulsant. Topiramate is used to treat certain types of seizures in adults and children who are at least 2 years old. Trokendi XR is for use in adults and children who are at least 6 years old. Some brands of topiramate are also used to prevent migraine headaches in adults ...
What is Trokendi XR used for?
Trokendi XR is for use in adults and children who are at least 6 years old. Some brands of topiramate are also used to prevent migraine headaches in adults and teenagers who are at least 12 years old. These medicines will only prevent migraine headaches or reduce the number of attacks, but will not treat a headache that has already begun.
What is metabolic acidosis?
metabolic acidosis (high levels of acid in your blood); kidney disease, kidney stones, or dialysis; lung disease, breathing problems; mood problems, depression, or suicidal thoughts or actions; liver disease; a growth disorder; or. soft or brittle bones ( osteoporosis, osteomalacia).
What are the symptoms of a cold?
problems with speech or memory; abnormal vision; numbness or tingling in your arms and legs, decreased sensation (especially in the skin); changes in your sense of taste; feeling nervous; nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, loss of appetite; fever, weight loss; or. cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat.
How do you know if you have kidney stones?
signs of a kidney stone--severe pain in your side or lower back, painful or difficult urination; signs of too much acid in your blood--irregular heartbeats, feeling tired, loss of appetite, trouble thinking, feeling short of breath; or.
Can topiramate cause vision problems?
Topiramate may cause vision problems that can be permanent if not treated quickly. Call your doctor right away if you have a sudden decrease in vision. topiramate may increase the risk of a birth defect called cleft lip and palate in a newborn. There may be other medications that are safer to use during pregnancy.
Can topiramate be used for birth control?
Topiramate can make birth control pills less effective. Ask your doctor about using a non-hormonal birth control (condom, diaphragm, cervical cap, or contraceptive sponge) to prevent pregnancy. It may not be safe to breastfeed a baby while you are using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risks.
What are the side effects of Topamax?
Topamax has a number of side effects that tend to be transient and resolve on their own as the body adapts to the treatment. Most are mild to moderate in severity. Common side effects include: 2 . Diarrhea. Dizziness. Double vision. Loss of appetite. Mood changes.
Can Topamax cause cleft palate?
Pregnancy: Topamax is classified as a category D drug due to evidence that it may cause a cleft palate in some children.
How do you know if you have a kidney problem?
Symptoms usually appear within a month of starting treatment and may be recognized by the sudden blurring of vision, eye pain, redness, and abnormally dilated pupils. Kidney damage: This most often affects people over 65 who have an underlying kidney disorder.
What is the best medicine for epilepsy?
Epilepsy drugs: Such as Diamox (acetazolamide) and Zonegran (zonisamide) Glaucoma medications: Such as Azopt (brinzolamide), Neptazane (methazolamide), and Trusopt (dorzolamide) Estrogen-based contraceptives may also be compromised if taking Topamax, increasing the risk of pregnancy and breakthrough bleeding.
How many mg of a sulfate capsule?
The capsule is available in 15-mg or 25-mg dose. The dosage can vary by the condition and the age of the user. 1 . When starting treatment, the dosage is typically tapered up to reduce the risk of potential side effects. It should also be tapered down if the decision is made to stop treatment.
Can you break a Topamax capsule?
Stopping abruptly can cause a rebound of disease symptoms (such as seizures in people with epilepsy or abnormal moods in people with bipolar disorder). When prescribed for smaller children, the Topamax capsule can be broken open and its contents sprinkled over food.
Is Topamax a drug?
Side Effects. Considerations. Drug Interactions. Topamax (topiramate) is an anticonvulsant medication used in the treatment of epilepsy and migraine headaches. 1 Topamax is also commonly used off-label to treat a wide range of mood disorders, eating disorders, and to aid in substance abuse therapy. While Topamax's mechanism of action is unclear, ...
What is topiramate used for?
Topiramate is a medication that works in the brain and is sometimes used in patients with bipolar disorder (also known as manic depression). It is approved for the treatment of seizures (epilepsy) in adults and children in combination with other anticonvulsants and for preventing migraine headaches in adults. ...
How much topiramate should I take?
Topiramate is usually taken one or two times a day with or without food. Typically patients begin at a low dose of medicine and the dose is increased slowly over several weeks. The dose usually ranges from 25 mg to 400 mg. Only your healthcare provider can determine the correct dose for you.
What are the side effects of a syringe?
Thinking problems: slow thoughts, trouble finding the right word, confusion, trouble concentrating. Feel clumsy, unsteady, dizzy, tired, weak, or nervous. Loss of appetite, change in the way food tastes, weight loss, stomach pain. Numbness or tingling sensation in limbs and extremities.
How do you know if you are depressed?
Symptoms of depression include: Depressed mood — feeling sad, empty, or tearful. Feeling worthless, guilty, hopeless, or helpless. Loss of interest or pleasure in normal activities. Sleep and eat more or less than usual (for most people it is less)
Does topiramate increase ammonia?
Combining valproate (Depakote®) with topiramate may increase ammonia levels in your blood. If this happens, you may get confused, disoriented, or have difficulty thinking.
Does topiramate cause sweating?
Topiramate may cause decreased sweating and increased body temperature. People, especially children, should be watched for signs of this — especially in hot climates. Some people may need to be hospitalized for this condition. Topiramate can increase the level of acid in your blood (metabolic acidosis).
Does topiramate cause birth defects?
It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor and caregivers. Topiramate has been associated with an increased risk of oral cleft birth defects. There may be precautions to decrease the risk of this effect.
What is topiramate used for?
Topiramate is an anticonvulsant and nerve pain medication that was initially developed to treat epileptic seizures. Since then, it has also been used to treat migraines, bipolar disorder, and to help people recover from alcohol, cocaine, and opioid addiction by stabilizing mood, reducing cravings, and preventing seizures during detox.1.
How long does topiramate stay in your system?
The half-life of topiramate is about 20 to 30 hours and it will stay in your system for about four to six days after your last dose , depending on individual factors and your dosage. 8 These timeframes vary depending on individual differences in metabolism and other factors.
How does topiramate work?
Topiramate works by interacting with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the body and changing the way the nerves communicate with one another. Essentially, it decreases abnormal excitement in the brain.
How do you know if you are addicted to topiramate?
However, if you think you might be addicted to topiramate, there will be signs and symptoms. Some common signs of topiramate addiction may include: Being preoccupied with taking topiramate. Visiting multiple doctors to get more than one prescription for topiramate.
What are some examples of sober life after topiramate?
Examples might include moving across the country, getting a divorce, or losing a job . These circumstances are often very difficult for anyone to handle, but people in recovery may have an especially difficult time coping without falling back on drugs or alcohol.
What is sober living?
Sober living programs provide sober homes for men and women who are recovering from drug and alcohol addiction. These sober homes are substance-free, structured living environments that also offer structured recovery programming, such as:
Does topiramate require insurance?
Cost also varies from facility to facility due to factors like amenities, location, and treatment services offered. Most topiramate treatment programs will accept health insurance benefits, which may help you pay for both detox and rehab.
What is topiramate used for?
Topiramate is used to treat certain types of seizures in adults and children ages 2 years and older. These types of seizures include: Partial onset seizures. Also called a focal onset seizure, this is a seizure that begins in one half of your brain.
How long does it take to see improvement in topiramate?
So, it may take a few weeks or a month for you to notice an improvement in your condition. Questions for your doctor. You may have questions about topiramate oral tablets and your treatment plan. It’s important to discuss all your concerns with your doctor.
What are the interactions of topiramate?
Interactions. Taking medications, vaccines, foods, and other things with a certain drug can affect how the drug works. These effects are called interactions. Before taking topiramate oral tablets, be sure to tell your doctor about all medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter types.
What are the side effects of topiramate?
Serious side effects of topiramate oral tablet that have been reported include: increased acid level in your blood. increased ammonia level in your blood. decreased sweating that can lead to fever. problems with thinking, memory, attention, and reaction. suicidal thoughts or actions.
Can topiramate be taken with other drugs?
Taking topiramate oral tablet with other drugs. To treat certain types of seizures, topiramate oral tablet is used in combination with other medications that treat seizures. These drugs belong to a group of medications called antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). Some examples of other commonly prescribed AEDs include:
Is topiramate a generic drug?
Topiramate is a generic drug, which means it’s an exact copy of the active drug in a brand-name medication. The brand-name medication that topiramate oral tablets are based on is called Topamax. Generic drugs are thought to be as safe and effective as the brand-name drug they’re based on.
Can topiramate help with seizures?
If you have migraine headaches or certain types of seizures, your doctor may prescribe topiramate for you. It’s a prescription medication that’s used in adults and some children to: treat certain types of seizures. help prevent migraine headaches.
How much does topiramate cost?
When bought in bulk, Topiramate is not particularly expensive. The 25 mg per pill set costs about $1.45 a pill, 100 mg costs $3.75 a pill, and 200 mg costs about $5.75 a pill.
What are the side effects of topiramate?
The five side effects that were most likely to cause people to discontinue use of Topiramate were psychomotor slowing, fatigue, memory problems, confusion, and somnolence. In rare cases, approximately one person of patients develop kidney stones and a very few develop acute glaucoma.
What is the primary use of topiramate?
Article by: Arnold Lieber, MD. Warning: The primary use of Topiramate, and the only use for which it has regulatory approval, is to treat seizures. Some people use Topiramate to treat other conditions, which may include PTSD, Axis II mood disorders, and eating disorders. However, no peer-reviewed studies have established ...
Why is it important to test for mood disorders?
The necessary tests include blood and urine tests, because these conditions could be the cause of a mood disorder.
Does topiramate raise plasma levels?
The interactions between Topiramate, valproate, and carbamazepine have already been noted above. In addition to that, Topiramate appears to raise the blood-plasma level of phenytoin, while phenytoin decreases the level of Topiramate by 50 percent.
Is topiramate good for PTSD?
First of all, Topiramate generally has a better side effect profile than those older drugs. Some patients find that older mood stabilizers have side effects that are too dangerous or impact their lives too much.#N#Second of all, many patients find that the older drugs do not control their disorders, while Topiramate does. That makes it the only effective known remedy for them.#N#Lastly, topirmate is so far the only psychopharmacologic agent that appears to have an effect in providing relief for PTSD symptoms. These symptoms can be extremely debilitating.
Is topiramate a mood stabilizer?
That is precisely the role of Topiramate. It is effective for those who found no useful effect from other mood stabilizers. Potential new uses of the drug include PTSD and reducing alcohol cravings, as well as heading off migraine headaches.
