Topamax (Topiramate)

Description

Topamax (topiramate) is an oral medication prescribed:

• As initial monotherapy for treating partial-onset or primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in patients who are at least 2 years of age
• As adjunctive therapy for treating partial-onset seizures, primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures, or seizures due to Lennox-Gastaut syndrome in patients who are at least 2 years of age
• As preventative treatment of migraines in patients who are at least 12 years of age

Topamax is available in the following:

• 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg tablets
• 15 mg and 25 mg sprinkle capsules

Directions

Topamax should be taken as prescribed. Your doctor will determine an appropriate Topamax dosage and treatment regimen for you based on other medical conditions, your age, and the condition being treated.

Carefully read the medication leaflet for further usage instructions.

Store Topamax tablets out of moisture between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C).

Store Topamax sprinkle capsules out of moisture at or below 77°F (25°C).

Any questions or concerns may be referred to your doctor or pharmacist.

Ingredients

Topiramate is the active ingredient in Topamax.

Carnauba wax, hypromellose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, polysorbate 80, pregelatinized starch, purified water, sodium starch glycolate, synthetic iron oxide, and titanium dioxide are the inactive ingredients in the tablets.

Black pharmaceutical ink, cellulose acetate, gelatin, povidone, sodium lauryl sulfate, sorbitan monolaurate, sugar spheres (sucrose and starch), and titanium dioxide are the inactive ingredients in the sprinkle capsules.

Contraindications

According to the most recent Prescribing Information, there are no contraindications to Topamax; however, consult your doctor about whether Topamax is an option for you.

Cautions

• Before you begin treatment with Topamax, tell your doctor about:
• All the medications you take, including prescription and nonprescription medications
• Your allergies
• Your current health conditions
• Your past medical history
• Your status of pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Topamax is associated with the following warnings and precautions:
• Acute myopia and secondary angle-closure glaucoma that can lead to permanent vision loss
• Vision problems
• Decreased sweating and increased body temperature
• Metabolic acidosis
• Increased risk of suicidal ideation and behavior
• Cognitive or neuropsychiatric adverse reactions; caution should be exercised when driving, operating machinery, or participating in other potentially hazardous activities. Depression and mood issues can occur.
• Potential for harm to an unborn baby, including major congenital malformations like cleft lip and/or palate and being small for gestational age
• Topamax withdrawal: the medication should be gradually withdrawn.
• Decreased bone mineral density
• Negative growth effects; children receiving Topamax long-term should be monitored
• Serious skin reactions
• Elevated ammonia levels and encephalopathy
• Kidney stones
• Hypothermia

Side Effects

Side effects of Topamax when used to treat epilepsy may include but are not limited to burning, tingling, numbness; anorexia; weight loss; speech disorders/related speech problems; fatigue; dizziness; drowsiness; nervousness; psychomotor slowing; vision problems; and fever.

Side effects of Topamax when used to prevent migraines may include but are not limited to burning, tingling, numbness; anorexia; weight loss; difficulty with memory; altered taste; diarrhea; numbness or loss of sensation; nausea; abdominal pain; and upper respiratory tract infection.

Immediately inform your doctor of any bothersome or persistent side effects you experience while taking Topamax.

Searching for a competitive Topamax cost? Here, you can buy Topamax with a valid prescription from your doctor.

Reference

1. Topamax. Titusville, NJ: Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; 2023.

About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)

Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....