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Trokendi XR (topiramate)

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By Editorial Team

2 min read

Reviewed by: HU Medical Review Board | Last reviewed: May 2023 | Last updated: May 2017

Trokendi XR® (topiramate) is a prescription drug used for the preventative treatment of migraine in people ages 12 and older. It is a type of drug known as an anticonvulsant. Trokendi XR is designed to reduce migraine frequency.1

Trokendi XR is an extended-release version of topiramate.1

What are the ingredients in Trokendi XR?

The active ingredient in Trokendi XR is topiramate.1

How does Trokendi XR work?

The exact way Trokendi XR works to prevent migraine is unknown. Experts think that the medicine blocks sodium channels and increases the activity of certain chemical messengers (neurotransmitters) in the brain. This likely blocks some of the receptors in brain nerve cells, which in turn reduces electrical activity in the brain that can trigger migraine.1

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What are the possible side effects?

The most common side effects of Trokendi XR include:1

  • Tingling of the arms and legs
  • Not feeling hungry
  • Nausea
  • Weight loss
  • Abnormal vision
  • Changes in the way foods taste
  • Nervousness
  • Speech problems
  • Dizziness
  • Slowed reactions
  • Upper respiratory tract infections

These are not all the possible side effects of Trokendi XR. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when taking Trokendi XR. You also should call your doctor if you have any changes that concern you when taking Trokendi XR.

Other things to know

Do not drink alcohol 6 hours before or 6 hours after taking Trokendi XR. Trokendi XR and alcohol can cause severe sleepiness, dizziness, and an increase in seizures.1

Do not drive a car or operate heavy machinery until you know how Trokendi XR affects you.

Your doctor will do blood tests to measure the level of acid in your blood before and during your treatment with Trokendi XR.1

Before starting treatment with Trokendi XR, tell your doctor if you have:1

  • Current or past mental health issues, including depression or mood problems
  • Kidney problems, kidney stones, or are getting kidney dialysis
  • Too much acid in your blood (metabolic acidosis)
  • Liver problems
  • Weak, brittle, or soft bones
  • Lung or breathing problems
  • Eye problems, especially glaucoma
  • Diarrhea
  • A growth problem

Trokendi XR can harm an unborn baby. If you can become pregnant, you should use birth control during treatment and for some time after the last dose of Trokendi XR . You should also not breastfeed during treatment with Trokendi XR and for some time after the last dose. Talk to your doctor about your options for birth control and breastfeeding while taking Trokendi XR.1

Do not stop taking Trokendi XR without talking to your doctor. Stopping Trokendi XR suddenly can cause serious problems.1

Trokendi XR can interact with many medicines. Before starting treatment with Trokendi XR, tell your doctor if you take:1

  • Valproic acid
  • Any medicines that impair or decrease your thinking, concentration, or muscle coordination
  • Birth control pills

Before beginning treatment for migraine, tell your doctor about all your health conditions and any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you take. This includes over-the-counter drugs.

For additional details, read the full prescribing information of Trokendi XR.