Topiramate

Molecule Description

Topiramate is a prescription medicine used to treat seizures (epilepsy) and pre

vent migraines. It belongs to a class of medications called ‘carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.’

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Topiramate

To treat epilepsy - as a single medicine in people aged over six years
To treat epilepsy – in combination with other medicines in people aged over two years
To prevent migraine headaches in adults

Contraindications of Topiramate

When should one not use Topiramate

If you are allergic to the medicine or any other substances used in the medicine
To prevent migraine attacks in women of childbearing potential, if not using birth control methods

Side effects of Topiramate

Common side effects of this drug are:

New onset or worsening of existing depression (most common)
Seizures (fits)
Mood changes – anxiety, getting irritated quickly or disoriented
Difficulty to concentrate, think and memory problems
Kidney stones, painful urination
Confusion
Metabolic acidosis
Increased acid levels in blood (troubled breathing, irregular heartbeats, etc.)
Absent or decreased sweating
Suicidal tendencies
Vision problems
Glaucoma (rare)

Precautions and Warnings of Topiramate

Pregnancy

Can I take Topiramate during pregnancy?

Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy before taking Topiramate. Topiramate is known to have the potential to cause defects in unborn babies (teratogenic) and should not be given in pregnancy. If it is necessary and no alternatives exist, strict supervision is recommended at your own risk.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Topiramate while breastfeeding?

Topiramate is not recommended in breastfeeding women as significant levels of the medicine are secreted in breast milk.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Topiramate?

As Topiramate acts on the brain, it is expected to cause drowsiness, dizziness and vision problems. It is advisable not to drive in the first few months after starting the medicine and later on, do not drive for longer durations.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Topiramate?

Avoid alcohol while on medication of Topiramate as it may intensify drowsiness.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have kidney-related problems (kidney stones)
You have a history of acidosis (high levels of acids or electrolytes in blood)
You have a growth problem
You have a high-fat diet
You have liver or eye problems
You have any problems in concentration, memory or thinking

Mode of Action of Topiramate

How Does It Work?

Seizures occur due to decreased levels of a substance called GABA (Gamma Amino Butyric acid), which regulates signals and messages in the brain. Topiramate acts by specific mechanisms and increases th...

Interactions of Topiramate

Interactions with other medicines

Medicines used to treat diabetes (Pioglitazone, Metformin, Glibenclamide)
Medicines used to treat depression or anxiety (Venlafaxine, Flunarazine, Amitriptyline)
Medicines used to treat heart disease or blood pressure (Propranolol, Diltiazem, Hydrochlorothiazide)
Medicines used to treat psychiatric problems (Risperidone, Lithium)
Other anti-seizure medications

Interactions with food items

Topiramate does not interact with food. It can be taken before or after meals.

Dietary Restrictions of Topiramate

No information is available on dietary restrictions while you are taking Topiramate, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further information.

Dosage of Topiramate

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose of Topiramate, contact doctor immediately; symptoms may include feeling sleepy, tired, less alert or have blurred vision. You may require hospital admission and are advised ...

Missed a Dose

Take the missed dose as early as you remember it. However, if it is less than 6 hours before you are scheduled to take your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. D...

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Ravi Kakarla

MBBS, MBA

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does it take for Topiramate to act? Will I get instant relief?

A: Topiramate takes time to act. In case of seizures, it will take about two weeks and up to 3 months if you are taking it to prevent migraines.

Q: I am not having any seizures or migraines. Can I stop the medication of Topiramate?

Topiramate is a safe medicine if you take it as per schedule and can be taken for long periods of time
If you want to stop taking this medicine, you should consult your doctor
If you are taking this medicine to treat seizures, do not stop it suddenly as it will cause withdrawal symptoms and the dose needs to be tapered down gradually

References

View All

Last Updated on: 05 Oct 2020 | 10:47 PM (IST)

Share This With Your Friends

Recent articles

See All

Your Ultimate Guide To A Balanced Diet For Diabetes

Introduction Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder affecting more than 100 million people in India. Diabetes occurs either due to insufficient insulin production, insulin resistance, or both which results in high levels of glucose in blood. Managing diabetes is crucial because uncontrolled diabetes can have serious complications like vision loss, kidney failure,

Benefits of Figs Soaked in Water Overnight: Exploring Nutritional Advantages

Key Highlights: Introduction Figs are versatile and scrumptious fruit that has been revered for its proposed nutritional benefits since ancient times. This little fruit, filled with a burst of sweetness, is a powerhouse of essential nutrients that may enhance your well-being. When soaked in water overnight, figs can make a valuable addition to your daily

Is Dry Ice Dangerous?

Introduction: Recently, dry ice has been in the news due to an unfortunate incident that occurred at a cafe in Gurugram, Haryana. Five diners unwittingly consumed dry ice, mistaking it for mouth freshener. As per news reports, the diners suffered serious injuries to their food pipe and oral cavity after accidentally ingesting the dry ice.

Bubonic Plague Reported: Are We In Danger?

Bubonic plague, which became notorious during the 14th Century in Europe and swept through India from the 1890s to 1910s, is caused by bacteria called Yersinia pestis. Contrary to popular belief, this plague isn’t caused by rat bites. The cause of bubonic plague is the bite of infected fleas. These fleas live in the hairs

Simple and Effective Skin Care Routine

Introduction Healthy skin is indicative of the quality of diet and lifestyle one follows. The largest organ of the human body and often overlooked, the skin acts as a barrier and prevents the external components from entering the inside of the body. This entails that, at times, it is exposed to critically harsh conditions, and

How to Save More on Heart Disease Medicines?

Introduction The heart is a vital organ of the body that literally keeps you alive. But several factors, such as lifestyle, comorbidities, and genetic predisposition, can put your heart health in jeopardy. Risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, aging, and lack of exercise can increase the risk of cardiovascular disorders. An article published

Disclaimer

The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.