Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 5/24/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

The use of topiramate can lead to various side effects in some individuals.

Common mild side effects of topiramate use include:

• Headaches
  
• Drowsiness
  
• Weakness
  
• Uncontrollable shaking
  
• Stomach pain
  
• Nausea
  
• Constipation
  
• Musculoskeletal pain
  
• Nosebleeds
  
• Dry mouth
  
• Dizziness
  
• Pins and needles sensation or numbness
  
• Impaired coordination
  
• Changes in menstrual bleeding
  
• Missed menstrual periods
  
  

More severe side effects of topiramate use can include:

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

If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking topiramate, contact your healthcare provider right away.

Tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with topiramate. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with topiramate.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:

• Anticonvulsants: Carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin
  
• Antipsychotics: Clozapine, olanzapine
  
• Oral Contraceptives: May decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills
  
• CNS Depressants: Alcohol, benzodiazepines, sedatives
  
• Diuretics: Hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide (especially important due to the potential for decreased potassium levels)
  
• Other mood stabilizers or anticonvulsants for conditions such as bipolar disorder or neuropathic pain
  
• Medications for heart failure
  
• Medications for glaucoma
  
  

You should also mention medical conditions such as:

• Respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  
• Glaucoma
  
• Kidney or liver disease
  
• Metabolic acidosis
  
• Mood problems, depression, or suicidal thoughts and behaviors
  
• Osteopenia or osteoporosis
  
• Recent dietary changes (especially a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet which can affect how topiramate works)
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using topiramate to assess potential risks and benefits.

Take topiramate exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.

Topiramate can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset. It's important to complete the full course of treatment, even if you start feeling better, to ensure the medication's effectiveness in managing your condition.

While taking topiramate, you should avoid alcohol. Alcohol can increase the effect of topiramate and worsen side effects.

In case of a topiramate overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe drowsiness, confusion, speech problems, blurred vision, or seizures. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.