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Topamax Side EffectsTopamax (generic name, Topiramate) is an anti-epileptic drug that is prescribed to control both the mild attacks (known as partial seizures) and the severe tonic-clonic convulsions (known as grand mal seizures). It is typically added to the patient's treatment regimen when other drugs fail to fully control their attacks. Topamax is also approved (by the FDA) for migraine prevention in adults only.Topamax Side Effects Some Topamax side effects (such as fatigue) are more likely to occur where the patient is taking a high dosage of Topamax. Meanwhile, some other side effects are likely to occur regardless of dosage. While many of these side effects tend to disappear after the first eight weeks of therapy, it's still important to report all side effects of taking Topamax to a doctor. Only a doctor can determine if it is safe for an individual to continue taking this drug. Common Topamax Side Effects These include loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea, tingling in arms and legs, taste change and weight loss. Potentially Serious Topamax Side Effects Serious risks associated with this prescription drug may include increased body temperature, increased eye pressure (glaucoma), decreased sweating, kidney stones, dizziness, sleepiness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. It is quite possible for side effects other than those listed here to occur. If this happens and/or if any seem particularly strange or bothersome, contact a doctor immediately. Special Topamax Precautions Because it sometimes causes confusion, dizziness, fatigue, and problems with coordination and concentration, you should not drive, operate machinery, or participate in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness until you are certain how Topamax may affect you. Topamax has been known to trigger severe nearsightedness along with increased pressure inside the eye. The problem usually occurs within a month of starting treatment. If you develop blurred vision or eye pain, let your doctor know immediately. Discontinuation of the drug may be necessary to prevent permanent vision loss. Let your doctor know if you have kidney problems or if you are on hemodialysis. If this is so, your dosage of Topamax may need to be adjusted. Additionally, ensure that the prescribing doctor is aware of any liver disorder you may have. Topamax must be used cautiously by individuals with impaired liver function. In animal studies, Topamax has actually caused harm to the developing fetus, and its safety has not yet been verified in pregnant humans. It is recommended for use during pregnancy only if the doctor feels that its potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the infant. Topamax may also appear in breast milk, and its possible effect on the nursing infant remains unknown. Check with your doctor if you plan to breastfeed the baby. Topamax can depress the central nervous system. Be extremely cautious about combining it with alcohol, sedatives, tranquilizers, and other central nervous system depressants. Additionally, if Topamax is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Topamax with any of the following drugs - Acetazolamide (Diamox); Carbamazepine (Tegretol); Dichlorphenamide (Daranide); Digoxin (Lanoxin); Metformin (Glucophage); Phenytoin (Dilantin); Oral contraceptives; Valproic acid (Depakene). Warning: This information is intended to supplement, not be a substitute for the expertise and judgment of a doctor. Please consult a doctor for final and more detailed information about the possible side effects of this prescription medication. |
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