Topiramate: how to take it safely
Topamax
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats epilepsy and prevents migraine.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water.
When to take it
Take it twice a day, about 12 hours apart.
Take it with
With or without food.
What to avoid
- Missing doses. This can trigger seizures.
- Stopping suddenly. Your doctor will lower the dose slowly.
- Alcohol.
- Driving or using machines until you know how it affects you.
- Not drinking enough fluids. Drink plenty to help prevent kidney stones.
- Pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to be.
- Hormonal contraceptives may not work well at higher doses.
Possible side effects
Tingling in hands and feet, tiredness, weight loss, memory or word-finding problems.
Get help if
Sudden eye pain or blurred vision, pain in the side, blood in the urine, fever or severe tiredness: see a doctor.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.