Topamax is a brand-name prescription drug that doctors use to treat seizures. As an anticonvulsant medication, it can be used alone or in conjunction with other medicines to treat seizures that affect the whole body (known as tonic-clonic seizures) or only one part of the brain (known as partial-onset seizures).

Seizures are sudden, uncontrolled disturbances in the brain that can cause a range of adverse effects, including muscle stiffness, twitching, or limpness, and abnormal sensations and states of awareness.

Topamax is available as an oral tablet, a powder to sprinkle on food, an extended-release capsule, or an oral liquid to take by mouth. These medications contain topiramate, which is also available in generic form.

Topamax treats tonic-clonic seizures, which affect the entire body and can include a sudden loss of muscular function. It is also used to treat partial-onset seizures, which only involve a single portion of the brain.

Additionally, doctors prescribe Topamax to treat Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, a childhood disorder that causes severe epilepsy and cognitive impairments.

In some cases, health care providers prescribe Topamax to prevent migraines. It is important to note, though, that Topamax is preventative rather than ameliorative when it comes to migraines. It will not relieve a migraine headache that is already occurring.

While some common side effects are associated with Topamax, it is essential to remember that your doctor prescribed this medication because they believe its ability to suppress your seizures outweighs any adverse side effects it may cause.

Topamax has been shown to cause some side effects. Talk to your health care provider if these mild reactions do not go away within a few days.

Common side effects reported from Topamax use include:

• Headaches
  
• Drowsiness
  
• Weakness
  
• Uncontrollable shaking
  
• Stomach pain
  
• Nausea
  
• Constipation
  
• Musculoskeletal pain
  
• Nosebleeds
  
• Dry mouth
  
• Changes in menstrual bleeding
  
• Missed menstrual periods
  
  

This is not a complete list of adverse effects – though these are among the most common. Seek medical attention right away if you experience any of the following symptoms while taking Topamax:

• Skin rash
  
• Loss of vision/ vision changes
  
• Worsening of seizures
  
• Confusion/ slowed reactions/ difficulty concentrating
  
• Difficulty with speech
  
• Coma
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
• Vomiting
  
• Intense back pain
  
• Bloody or cloudy urine
  
• Pain or difficulty during urination
  
• Fever
  
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
  
  

As with all prescription medications, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with and any medication/ supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with Topamax.

Drug interactions involving Topamax can often be severe, and it is important to consider potential drug interactions before taking this medication. Topamax can interact with antacids, blood thinners, birth control medications, and antidepressants. It is also important to avoid taking Topamax with alcohol or other medicines containing topiramate. Taking any of these combined with Topamax can increase the risk of side effects such as vision changes, drowsiness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. It may even cause more serious problems, such as an increased risk of seizures or depression.

In addition, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with this medication.

Topamax is administered as either an oral tablet, a powder to be sprinkled on food, an extended-release capsule, or an oral liquid. The exact dosage and method of administration will depend on the patient’s age, body weight, and the severity of the condition requiring treatment.

Take the medication exactly as your healthcare provider prescribes. Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of Topamax without consulting with your provider first. If you begin to experience adverse side effects while taking this medication, like those listed above, inform your provider immediately.

You should store your medication in a closed container at room temperature, away from extreme heat, extreme cold, moisture, and direct light, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Topamax is currently only available via prescription. This means a licensed health care provider must authorize the use of this drug.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription or refill an existing one. You can arrange same-day pickup at a nearby pharmacy. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether Topamax is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for Topamax to be picked up near you—often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.