Topamax

Uses:
Topiramate is used to treat a seizure disorder.

How to Take:
Topamax is taken by mouth, generally twice daily. Dosage is slowly increased over several weeks and adjusted to improve seizure control. Because of the bitter taste, do not chew or crush tablets. Doses above 400 mg daily generally are not more effective than lower doses. If it is necessary to discontinue Topamax, generally the dosage should be decreased slowly, not stopped suddenly. Use exactly as directed. Do not stop using your other seizure medications unless directed to do so.

Side Effects:
Weakness, tiredness, drowsiness, dizziness, tingling sensations, loss of appetite and weight loss may occur. If these persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Report promptly: unsteadiness, slowing or shakiness, speech problems, mental/mood changes, stomach/abdominal pain, vision problems. Unlikely but report promptly: itching, shortness of breath, fever, persistent sore throat. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions:
Before using Topamax, tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies (especially drug allergies), kidney disease, liver disease. Drink plenty of fluids to decrease the chance of kidney stones. Limit alcohol intake as it may aggravate side effects. Caution performing tasks that require mental alertness (e.g., driving). Topamax should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if Topamax is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially of: phenytoin, carbamazepine, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., acetazolamide). Also report drugs that can make you drowsy such as: sedatives, sleep medicines, psychiatric medications, narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine), anti-anxiety drugs, other anti-seizure drugs. Topamax may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. Discuss using other methods of birth control with your doctor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes:
Do not share Topamax with others. Lab tests may be performed to monitor for drug side effects.

Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage:
Store at room temperature away from light and moisture.

NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.