What is the most important information I should know about topiramate?
Seek emergency medical attention if you have a sudden change in vision and pain
around or behind the eyes. These may be early signs of a serious side effect of topiramate.
Do not stop taking topiramate without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel
better. You may have increased seizures if you stop taking topiramate suddenly. You will need
to use less and less before you stop the medication completely.
Contact your doctor if your seizures get worse or you have them more often while
taking topiramate.
You may have thoughts about suicide while taking this medication. Your doctor will
need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.
Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood
or behavior changes, depression,
anxiety, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless,
hyperactive
(mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.
Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking
topiramate, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who
treats you should know that you are taking a seizure medication.
Topiramate can cause side effects that may impair your vision or reactions. Be
careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert and able to see clearly.
Avoid
drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of topiramate, and
can also increase the risk of a seizure.
Ketogenic or "ketosis" diets that are high in protein and low in carbohydrates can increase
the risk of kidney stones. Avoid the use of such diets while you are taking topiramate.
What is topiramate?
Topiramate is a seizure medication, also called an anticonvulsant.
Topiramate is used alone or in combination with other medications to prevent seizures in
adults and children who are at least 2 years old.
Topiramate is also used to prevent migraine headaches. Topiramate will only
prevent migraine headaches or reduce the number of attacks. It will not treat a headache that has already begun.
Topiramate may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking topiramate?
Do not use this medication if you are allergic to topiramate.
Before taking topiramate, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to
an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during
treatment.
You may have thoughts about suicide while taking this medication. Tell your doctor if
you have new or worsening depression or suicidal thoughts during the first several months of
treatment, or whenever your dose is changed.
Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or
symptoms. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled
appointments.
Topiramate can make birth control pills less effective. Talk with your doctor about
other forms of birth control if you are trying to
prevent pregnancy while taking topiramate.
It is not known whether topiramate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a
nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a
baby.
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