Topamax 100mg Tablets (Generic Equivalent)

Topamax (topiramate) is a seizure medication, also called an anticonvulsant. Topamax is used alone to treat seizures in adults and children who are at least 10 years old. Topamax is used in combination with other medications to treat seizures in adults and children who are at least 2 years old. Topamax is also used to prevent migraine headaches in adults. It will only prevent migraine headaches or reduce the number of attacks. It will not treat a headache that has already begun. Topamax may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

The health and medical information provided here is for general purposes only and is not a substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of this medicine is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.

Do not stop using Topamax without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel fine. You may have increased seizures if you stop using Topamax suddenly. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely. Contact your doctor if your seizures get worse or you have them more often while taking Topamax.

Seek emergency medical attention if you have a sudden change in vision or pain around or behind the eyes. These may be early signs of a serious and permanent side effect on your vision.

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking Topamax. Tell your doctor if you have new or worsening symptoms of depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits.

Wear a medical alert tag or carry an ID card stating that you take Topamax. Any medical care provider or dentist who treats you should know that you are taking a seizure medication.

Ketogenic or "ketosis" diets that are high in protein and low in carbohydrates can increase the risk of kidney stones. Avoid the use of such diets while you are taking Topamax.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Topamax: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor, such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself. Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect while using Topamax, such as:

sudden vision loss, pain around or behind your eyes;

dry mouth, increased thirst, drowsiness, decreased sweating, increased body temperature, and hot, dry skin,

slowed thinking, memory problems, trouble concentrating;

problems with speech or balance;

confusion, mood changes, unusual behavior, thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself;

vomiting, loss of appetite, tired feeling, irregular heartbeats, feeling like you might pass out; or

severe pain in your side or lower back, painful or difficult urination.

Less serious Topamax side effects may include:

mild dizziness;

numbness or tingly feeling;

diarrhea, weight loss;

feeling nervous;

change in your sense of taste; or

cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat.

Take Topamax exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.

Topamax can be taken with or without food.

The Topamax tablet should be swallowed whole. It has a bitter taste when chewed or broken.

You may open the Topamax capsule and sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of applesauce or other soft food to make swallowing easier. Swallow right away without chewing. Do not save the mixture for later use. Discard the empty capsule.

To be sure Topamax is not causing harmful effects, your blood may need to be tested often. Your kidney or liver function may also need to be tested. Visit your doctor regularly.

If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using Topamax. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time. Do not stop using Topamax without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel fine. You may have increased seizures if you stop using Topamax suddenly. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely. Contact your doctor if your seizures get worse or you have them more often while taking Topamax. Wear a medical alert tag or carry an ID card stating that you take Topamax. Any medical care provider or dentist who treats you should know that you are taking a seizure medication. Drink plenty of liquids while you are taking Topamax. This will lower your risk of having kidney stones or an electrolyte imbalance. Call your doctor if you have ongoing vomiting or diarrhea. You can easily become dehydrated while taking this medication.

Store Topamax at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.