What is Topiramate?
Topiramate is an anticonvulsant used as a seizure medication. It is used to treat certain types of seizures in adults and children over the age of two. Topiramate (Trokendi XR) is intended for use by adults and children over the age of six. Some brands of topiramate are also used to prevent migraine headaches in adults and adolescents over the age of 12. These medications only prevent migraine headaches or reduce the number of attacks. They do not treat migraine headaches that have already started.
Topiramate Uses
Topiramate is used to treat certain types of seizures, including primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures and partial-onset seizures, either alone or in combination with other medications (seizures that involve only one part of the brain). Topiramate is also used in conjunction with some other medications for treating seizures in people with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (a disorder that causes seizures). Topiramate belongs to the anticonvulsant medication class. It works by reducing the abnormal activity of the brain.
How to use
- Topiramate tablets are safe to take with or without food.
- With a glass of water, swallow your tablets whole. You should not chew them.
- Topiramate capsules should be taken whole
Topiramate Side Effects:
- Tingling in your arms
- Increased bleeding
- Increased bruising
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Nervousness
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Speech problems
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Trouble with memory
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Eye problems
Precautions
- This drug may accumulate in your body if you have liver problems. This may increase your chances of experiencing side effects.
- If you have kidney problems, your body will be unable to clear this medication. This could result in more side effects. To reduce your risks, your doctor will prescribe a lower dose.
- If you are pregnant, consult your doctor. Inquire about the specific harm that may be caused by this drug. It should only be used if the potential risk outweighs the potential benefit.
- This medication is excreted in breast milk and may have serious consequences for a child. Discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of using this medication while breastfeeding your child.
- While taking Topiramate do not take alcohol. Taking this medication with alcohol may worsen your sleepiness and dizziness.
Overdose
If someone has taken an overdose of this medicine and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, seek medical advice. Never take more than what is prescribed to you by your doctor.
Missed Dose
If you forget to take any dose or by mistake miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is already the time for the next dose, skip the forgotten dose. Take your next medicine dosage at the regular time schedule. Do not double the dose.
Storage
The medicine should not come in direct contact with heat, air, and light may damage your medicines. Exposure to medicine might cause some harmful effects or serious side effects. The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children’s reach.
Topiramate vs Gabapentin
Topiramate |
Gabapentin |
---|---|
Topiramate is an anticonvulsant used as a seizure medication. These are also known as anti-epileptic medications. | Gabapentin is also known as Neurontin,it is an anticonvulsant medication |
Topiramate is a medication used to treat certain types of seizures in adults and children over the age of two. | It is primarily used to treat partial seizures and neuropathic pain. |
These medications only prevent migraine headaches or reduce the number of attacks; they do not treat migraine headaches that have already started. | It is first-line therapy for neuropathic pain caused by diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, and central pain. |