Topiramate is indicated for the prevention of migraine in adults. It is taken by mouth as preventive therapy to reduce migraine frequency. For those with frequent migraine attacks, or migraine that do not respond to acute treatment, preventive medications can be important.
How does topiramate work?
The precise way Topiramate works to prevent migraine is unknown. It is thought that the medication blocks sodium channels and increases the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. This likely inhibits some of the receptors in nerve cells, which reduce electrical activity and contribute to the development of migraine.
What are the brand names for topiramate?
Topiramate is a generic drug sold under several different brand names in the US and Canada:
- Topamax
- Trokendi XR
- Topiragen
- Qudexy XR
What are the possible side effects of topiramate?
Many clinical trials evaluated the safety and efficacy of Topiramate. The most common side effects experienced by those taking Topiramate include:
- Decreased sweating
- Fever and flushing
- Vision problems
- Metabolic acidosis (increased level of acid in your blood)
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers and toes (paresthesia)
- Anorexia
- Weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Feeling weak, drowsy, or tired
- Upper respiratory infections
- Speech and memory difficulties
This is not an exhaustive list of all potential side effects of Topiramate. For more information, consult your doctor or healthcare provider. Patients should talk to their doctor about what to expect with treatment Topiramate. If you notice any new or worsening side effects when taking Topiramate, contact your doctor or healthcare provider immediately.
Important questions for your doctor before taking topiramate
Topiramate tablets are taken by mouth with water or other liquids. Before starting Topiramate talk with your doctor if you:
- Have a history of hypersensitivity to topiramate
- Have a history of alcohol use
- Have acute myopia and secondary angle closure glaucoma
- Have visual field defects
- Have a history of oligohydrosis (decreased sweating) and hyperthermia (fever)
- Have a history metabolic acidosis
- Have taken antiepileptic drugs
- Have taken other carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
- Have taken valproic acid
- Have taken anti-depressants
- Have a history of depression or thoughts of suicide
- Have a history of kidney or liver impairment
- Have weak, brittle or soft bones
- Have lung or breathing problems
- Are planning on having surgery
- Are on a high fat diet/low carbohydrate diet
- Are pregnant or planning to get pregnant. Topiramate can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman.
Individuals with the above conditions should be monitored closely while taking Topiramate.
A physician, individual medical circumstances, and clinical outcome will guide the dose and titration rate. Longer intervals between dose adjustments can be used.
Do not suddenly stop taking Topiramate without talking to your doctor, as serious complications can arise.
Keep track of migraine attacks for topiramate effectiveness
Keep track of when you have migraine attacks and when you take Topiramate so you can monitor its effectiveness, and communicate with your doctor about how the medication is working for you.
What else should I know about topiramate?
Before taking Topiramate make sure to tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Topiramate and other medicines may impact each other, causing side effects.
Because Topiramate can cause dizziness, weakness, and drowsiness, do not drive a car, use machinery, or do anything requiring you to be fully alert when taking this medication until you know how Topiramate affects you.
For additional details, read the full prescribing information of Topiramate.
