MedDataToolTopiramate is a medication used to treat epilepsy and prevent migraines. It works by calming overactive brain activity and helping to stabilize electrical signals in the brain. You can take it as a tablet, usually starting at a low dose that may be gradually increased, with a typical maximum dose of 400 mg per day for epilepsy and 100 mg per day for migraine prevention. One important warning is that it can cause serious side effects like vision problems or mood changes. If you're taking other antiepileptic drugs, such as phenytoin or carbamazepine, be aware that they can affect how well topiramate works.
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Uses
- Partial-onset seizures in patients 2 years and older.
- Primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in patients 2 years and older.
- Seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome in patients 2 years and older.
- Preventive treatment of migraine in patients 12 years and older.
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Dosage
Adults: 200–400 mg daily in two doses for adjunctive therapy.
Pediatric patients 2 to 9 years: Dose based on weight, starting at 25 mg nightly.
Pediatric patients 10 years and older: 400 mg daily in two doses.
Elderly patients: Dose may need adjustment due to renal function.
Patients with renal impairment: Half the usual adult dose.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
Paresthesiaweight lossanorexiafatiguedizzinesssomnolenceAcute myopia
Serious
glaucomametabolic acidosissuicidal thoughtskidney stones
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Increased risk of suicidal behavior and ideation.
- May cause metabolic acidosis and decrease bone mineral density.
- Risk of kidney stones and serious skin reactions.
- Use caution with alcohol and CNS depressants.
- Monitor lithium levels if used with high-dose topiramate.
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Drug interactions
- Phenytoindecreases topiramate levelsCaution
- Carbamazepinedecreases topiramate levelsCaution
- Valproic acidrisk of hypothermia and hyperammonemiaCaution
- Hydrochlorothiazideincreases topiramate levelsMonitor
- Amitriptylinemay increase amitriptyline levelsCaution
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).