Topamax (Topiramate)
Medication information written by Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Updated - March 1, 2021
Topamax (Topiramate) Medication Information
Uses
Topamax is an antiepileptic that is used to treat epilepsy and migraines.
Dosage
The tablets are available in several different strengths:
- 25 mg
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
- 200 mg
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Topamax include:
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Somnolence
- Nervousness
- Weight decrease
Speak with your doctor for a full list of side effects that apply to you if you are taking Topiramate.
Precautions
There is a risk of an increase in suicide ideation and behavior when using Topamax, so patients should be monitored for behavior changes.
There is a risk that patients can experience withdrawal symptoms if they abruptly stop taking Topiramate.
Patients can develop kidney stones with Topamax use.
Interactions
Some common drug interactions with Topiramate include:
- Alcohol
- Phenytoin
- Carbamazepine
- Valproic acid
- Estradiol
- Metformin
- Lithium
Speak with your doctor for more information and before starting a new medication with Topiramate.
Storage
Store at room temperature (59-86 ºF). It is important to protect it from moisture.
Pharmacist Tips
- Seek medical attention if you have blurred vision or vision disturbances while taking Topamax.
- It is important to take Topiramate as it is prescribed.
- There is a risk that patients can experience an increase in suicide ideation or behavior, so patients taking Topamax should be monitored.
Topiramate FAQs
What is Topamax used for?
Topamax is used to treat seizures and migraines.
How does Topamax make you feel?
The common side effects with Topiramate include fatigue, somnolence, confusion, and weight loss.
Does Topamax make you pee a lot?
Topamax can cause kidney stones, and one of the symptoms of kidney stones is frequent urination. If you experience this with Topamax, contact your doctor.
Does Topamax make you dumb?
One of the common side effects with Topamax is confusion.
Can you lose weight on Topamax?
Yes, one of the common side effects with Topamax is weight loss.
Related Drugs
Reference:
Topamax {package insert}. Titusville, NJ: Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; 2009.
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/020844s041lbl.pdf
Author: Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Dr. Roybal is a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist who has practiced in both ambulatory and acute care settings. Her pharmacy interests include oncology and general inpatient pharmacy.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.