Topiramate 100mg

Anticonvulsive Agent

CSA NA – FDA Approved – REMS (N) – Can Ship

The exact mechanism of Topiramate/Topamax is not full known however it is thought that the anticonvulsant effects are due to a combination of effects of voltage-dependent sodium channels in neurons, enhanced GABA-A activity, inhibition of carbonic anhydrase, and inhibited AMPA/kainite/glutamate receptors.

Topiramate/Topamax is officially indicated for migraine prophylaxis and seizures.  It is also prescribed off-label to help manage antipsychotic-induced weight gain, binge eating disorder, prevention of tension/cluster headaches, and for essential tremor. (may be used for other conditions not listed)

Before starting Topiramate/Topamax make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take, if you have kidney disease, liver disease, a history of depression, suicidal tendencies, an eating disorder, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

25-400mg daily divided into one or two dosages depending on condition it is used for, efficacy and patient tolerance to side effects

How to Take: Follow instructions provided by physician/pharmacy label, swallow whole due to bitter taste, take consistently at same times each day unless otherwise directed, store at room temperature.

You Need to Avoid: Do not mix with alcohol due to increased suppression of central nervous system and if used should be done so with extreme caution.  Extended release formulations cannot be mixed with alcohol at all.  Do not stop this medication abruptly due to possibility of increasing seizure frequency or exacerbation of migraine.  Ketogenic diets may increase risk of metabolic acidosis associated with this medication rarely.

Paresthesia (tingling sensation in skin), fatigue, drowsiness, dizziness, memory impairment, decreased serum bicarbonate, hyperammonemia, weight loss, abdominal pain, anorexia, dysgeusia, nausea, diarrhea, upper respiratory tract infection, or fever.

Note this is not a complete list of side effects, only common ones

1. Why do I feel so down/depressed since starting this medication? /Why am I having mood swings since starting this medication?
   Rarely antiepileptic medications such as this can cause mood or behavior changes and in severe cases result in suicidal ideation.  If you are feeling any of these things or family members are reporting mood or behavioral changes, see your physician immediately to discuss your options as it could be a result of this medication.