What is the drug topiramate used for?

What does topiramate do to the brain?

Topiramate affects the activity of two neurotransmitters in the brain. Neurotransmitters are natural chemicals that are involved in transmitting messages between the nerve cells. Topiramate enhances the action of GABA, which is a neurotransmitter that acts as a natural ‘nerve calming’ agent.

How long does topiramate take to work?

For epilepsy, it can take 2 to 4 weeks for topiramate to work fully. For migraines, it can take 1 month for migraine attacks to be less frequent. But it can take 2 to 3 months for topiramate to work fully for migraines.

What does topiramate make you feel like?

Personality or mood changes

Topamax can sometimes cause personality changes that affect the way people behave, react, feel, or interact with others. For example, the drug may cause agitation, aggression, or other behavior problems. Topamax may also cause mood changes, such as anxiety, mood swings, and depression.

What is the best time to take topiramate?

You can take it at any time of day, but try to take your doses at the same time each day. Try to space your doses evenly through the day. For example, you could take it first thing in the morning and in the evening. You can take tablets with or without food.

Does topiramate cause weight gain?

This meta-analysis found that topiramate was associated with weight loss or attenuated weight gain when compared to controls (−2.83 kg; 95% CI, −4.62 to −1.03).

Does topiramate help you sleep?

Conclusions: Topiramate may be of benefit for patients with NES or SRED in reducing nocturnal eating, improving nocturnal sleep, and producing weight loss.

Will topiramate give you energy?

Animal studies suggest that topiramate increases energy expenditure and inhibits appetite, thereby reducing caloric intake [26, 36, 39].

How much weight can you lose with topiramate?

For weight loss: Adults and children 12 years of age and older—At first, one tablet of 3.75 milligrams (mg) of phentermine and 23 mg of topiramate once a day for 14 days. After 14 days, your doctor may increase your dose to 7.5 mg of phentermine and 46 mg of topiramate once a day.

What happens when you stop taking topiramate?

Common Topamax withdrawal symptoms include anger, anxiety, appetite changes, trouble concentrating, confusion, dehydration, depersonalization, depression, dizziness, fatigue, headaches, migraines, insomnia, irritability, mood swings, muscle pain, nausea, panic attacks, seizures, shaking, sweating, thought changes,

What should I avoid while taking topiramate?

Avoid the use of a ketogenic or “ketosis” diet (high in fat, low in carbohydrates) while you are taking topiramate. Also avoid activities that could be dangerous if you have an unexpected seizure, such as swimming or climbing in high places.

Can topiramate cause permanent damage?

There are also serious side effects to be aware of when taking Topamax. These side effects usually require hospitalization or medical help, and may result in permanent injury or be life-threatening.

Does topiramate cause hair loss?

Official answer. Yes, topiramate (Topamax) has been shown to cause hair loss (alopecia) in studies, but it is not a common side effect. Hair loss has been reported in 1% to 4% of children ages 6 to 16 years of age, and in 3% to 4% of patients older than 16 years of age.

Does topiramate make tired?

Topamax may be prescribed either alone or in combination with other medications for the treatment of certain types of epilepsy, or it may be given for the prevention of migraine. Drowsiness is a common side effect and it may occasionally cause visual or metabolic disturbances.

Does topiramate lower blood pressure?

For patients with high blood pressure: This medicine may increase risk of lowering your blood pressure. If you feel dizzy, faint, or lightheaded after taking this medicine, check with your doctor. This medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants (medicines that make you drowsy or less alert).

How long does topiramate stay in your system?

Topiramate stays in your system for approximately 4 to 6 days after you take your last dose, but this may differ depending on your age, the dose you were taking, and your medical history. Because of this, talk to your provider about if it’s safe for you to drink after you’ve stopped taking topiramate.

Can you stop taking topiramate?

Talk to your doctor first if you want to stop taking Topamax (topiramate) or change your dose, even if you do not have epilepsy. You should not stop taking Topamax suddenly unless your doctor has told you to stop. Stopping suddenly may increase the risk of seizures or other withdrawal side effects.