Topamax (Topiramate)

Topamax is a medicine used alone or in combination with other medications to treat certain types of seizures. It is also used to prevent migraine headaches. Topamax is available as tablets and Sprinkle capsules.

Topamax can cause serious eye problems. These include any sudden decrease in vision with or without eye pain and redness, or a blockage of fluid in the eye causing glaucoma (high pressure in the eye). These problems can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated. Tell your doctor right away if you have any new eye symptoms. Topamax can cause decreased sweating and fever. Tell your doctor right away if you experience either of these. Topamax can cause metabolic acidosis (increased acid in your blood). This can lead to brittle or soft bones, kidney stones, slow the rate of growth in children, and possibly harm your unborn baby if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you feel tired, changes in your heartbeat, loss of appetite, or if you have trouble thinking clearly. Topamax can cause suicidal thoughts or actions. Tell your doctor immediately if you have thoughts about suicide or dying; attempt to commit suicide; have new or worsening depression, anxiety, or irritability; have panic attacks; have trouble sleeping (insomnia); have an extreme increase in activity and talking (mania); are feeling agitated or restless; acting aggressive; being angry or violent; acting on dangerous impulses; or have other unusual changes in behavior or mood. Topamax can harm your unborn baby if you take it while you are pregnant. Your baby has a higher risk for birth defects called cleft lip and cleft palate if you take Topamax during pregnancy. If your doctor decides to prescribe Topamax to you, use an effect birth control. Talk to your doctor about the best kind of birth control to use while you are taking Topamax. Topamax can cause high blood ammonia levels or low body temperature when taken alone or in combination with another medicine called valproic acid. Tell your doctor if you experience unexplained changes in your mental status, confusion, tiredness, or vomiting. Topamax can cause kidney stones to develop. Drink plenty of fluids while you are taking Topamax to lower your chances of getting kidney stones. Topamax can affect your thinking and alertness. You can experience confusion, depression or mood problems, drowsiness, fatigue, or problems with concentration, attention, memory, or speech.