Topamax

Topamax is effective for treating and preventing seizures. The drug is also used for the treatment of migraine headaches.

How taken

Topamax can be taken in empty stomach or with food. The Topamax tablet should be taken with a full glass of water. The drug should be swallowed whole and it gives a bitter taste when chewed or crushed. If there is any difficulty in swallowing the drug, the granules can be mixed with an applesauce and taken. However, take care that the mixture is drunk right away and do not keep it for later use. While taking Topamax, drink more fluids.

Once you are prescribed Topamax, always follow the prescription. Do not take larger amounts of the drug or take it for long periods as it can only bring in many complications.

Missed dose/overdose

Always maintain the right dosage. In case you forget to have a dose of Topamax, take it as soon as you remember it. But never take the missed dose if it is time for your regular dose. Never take an additional dose for the missed one.

If you think of having taking an overdose of Topamax, seek immediate help. Drowsiness, agitation, depression, dizziness, blurred vision, speech or balance problems, stomach or chest pain, fast heartbeats and fainting are some of the overdose symptoms.

More information

You should have to consult the doctor about all your allergies and also about your overall health condition before he prescribes Topamax. Your doctor should have to know if you have liver or kidney diseases, asthma, glaucoma, emphysema, bronchitis or if you had undergone a surgery recently.

Topamax is rated FDA pregnancy category C. This means that the drug is harmful to the foetus and also the new born. If pregnant or hoping to conceive soon, do not take Topamax. Breast-feeding mothers should only feed their babes after consulting the doctor.

Warnings/ precautions

While taking Topamax, you may have thoughts of suicide. If you feel depressed or come across any mood change, immediately contact the doctor.

While you are on Topamax medication, you should not miss any lab tests or doctor’s appointments. Your doctor needs to evaluate your blood condition, kidney and liver functions regularly.

In case you need any surgery, inform the surgeon that you are on Topamax medication as he may sometimes stop the drug for a few days.

Side effects

Some of the allergic reactions that a person can experience with Topamax include difficulty breathing, swelling (face, tongue, lips, throat, mouth) and hives. If you feel any of these allergic reactions, better contact the doctor without further delay.

You should have to stop the drug and call your doctor immediately if you come across any serious side effects that include mood changes, anxiety, depression, agitated, hyperactive, thoughts about suicide, sudden vision loss, pain around/ behind eyes, increased thirst, dry mouth, decreased sweating, increased temperature, nausea, increased urination, vomiting, muscle pain fast heart rate and light-headedness.

Some of the lesser-known side effects of Topamax are memory problems, speech/balance problems, trouble concentrating, tingling, insomnia, tired feeling, dizziness, headache, appetite loss and weight loss.