Topiramate

Uses

This medication is used to control specific types of seizures (fits), such as tonic-clonic seizures, simple partial seizures, and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome epilepsy. This medication is also used to prevent migraine headaches, but it won’t help if the headache has already started.

IUPAC name: 2, 3:4, 5-Bis-O-(1-methylethylidene)-beta-D-fructopyranose sulfamate

Drug class: Anticonvulsant/ Antiepileptic drug

Route of administration: Oral

Is it a drug that needs a prescription? YES

Is it an OTC drug? NO

Mechanism of action

This anti-epileptic medicine works by decreasing the abnormal activity of nerve impulses in the brain that produce seizures, thus helping to restore the normal balance of nerve activity.

 Side effects

It may cause dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, lack of coordination, tingling sensation in the hands or feet, weight loss, loss of appetite, joint or muscle pain, vision problems, taste changes, unusual thoughts, disorientation, back pain, problems with speech, trouble breathing. 

Precautions

Before using this medication, take the following precautions and notify your doctor:

If you are allergic to it, or to other anticonvulsant drugs, or if you have other allergies,

If you are taking any other medication (prescribed, non-prescribed, or herbal products),

When you have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, glaucoma, depression, mood changes, metabolic acidosis, osteoporosis, osteopenia, lung problems (such as asthma, COPD),

If you’ve had any type of surgery,

Limit your alcohol usage while taking topiramate since it increases your chances of developing blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness. It may also cause a loss of alertness.

You may develop kidney stones while using this medication. In order to avoid it, drink 2 liters of water daily.

Do not discontinue this medicine without consulting your doctor.

While taking this medicine, the efficacy of birth control techniques may be diminished.

Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.