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What Is Topamax Used to Treat?

Topamax is the brand name of the medication topiramate, which is available by prescription only. It is an anticonvulsant drug mainly used for prevention of epilepsy-related seizures in people over two years old. It is available in tablets and sprinkle capsules.

  1. Seizures

    • Topamax is used to treat epileptic partial-onset and generalized tonic-clonic seizures, also known as grand mal seizures. It is also used to treat seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. It can be taken alone but is often used as adjunctive treatment with other antiseizure drugs or after these drugs have not been effective.

    Migraines

    • Topamax is also used in the prevention of migraines. It does not treat migraines once they have begun, and it may not completely prevent them, but it reduces the frequency of the headaches.

    Side Effects

    • According to the Food and Drug Administration, antiepileptic drugs including Topamax may cause suicidal thoughts and worsening of depression.

      Topamax is an FDA pregnancy category C drug in regards to harm of the fetus which means that data for humans is unclear but may have been positive in animal testing. The FDA recommends that patients who decide to take Topamax after talking with their doctor should enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry by calling 1-888-233-2334.

      Other side effects may include blurry vision, back pain, dizziness, headaches, urinary difficulties, loss of appetite and nausea. Children especially may experience behavior problems and sleeping difficulties.

    Facts

    • This medication must be taken exactly as prescribed. It can be taken with or without food. The sprinkle capsules can be opened and the contents spread onto food such as yogurt or ice cream. This should be taken immediately. Patients will need to be monitored regularly for suicidal ideation and kidney and liver problems.

    Warnings

    • Topamax may interact badly with other drugs including amitriptyline, risperidone, Detrol, Atrovent and vitamins and minerals. It's important for patients to inform their physicians what prescription and over-the-counter medications they are on before taking Topamax. This drug can also lessen the effectiveness of birth control pills. Patients are urged to carry a medical ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet in case of an emergency to avoid drug interaction.

      Patients should not stop taking Topamax abruptly, as this may cause an increase in seizure activity. Since it acts as a depressant, patients should not combine it with other depressants such as tranquilizers or alcohol, as this may cause dizziness, drowsiness and impaired motor functioning.

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