Topamax (generic name: topiramate; brand names include: Topaz) is an anticonvulsant drug.
Topamax is used:
For the treatment of various types of epilepsy in adults and children over 2 years of age
For the prevention of migraines in adults
Topamax has been available worldwide since 1995. Since that time, more than 4 million patients have been treated with Topamax (regardless of condition).
Today, Topamax is the #1 prescribed brand for migraine prevention in the U.S.
Topamax prevents seizures and migraines by acting on the nerves and chemicals in the brain.
Topamax can be used alone or in combination with other medicines.
Recommendations
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Take Topamax exactly as directed.
You can take the tablets or capsules with or without food. Always swallow the tablets whole with plenty of water.
Your doctor will start with a low dose and slowly increase the dose to the lowest amount needed to control your condition.
At the start of treatment Topamax may be taken once a day, preferably at night. After the dose is increased, it is taken twice a day.
You should continue taking Topamax until your doctor tells you to stop. Before stopping, it is recommended that the dose be reduced gradually.
Adults:
Epilepsy - Treatment starts at a low dose of 25 mg to 50 mg per day. The dose is then gradually increased by 25 mg to 100 mg over weekly periods or longer, until the most suitable dose is reached.
Migraine - Treatment starts at a low dose of 25 mg nightly for one week. The dose is then increased over weekly periods or longer by 25mg/day, until the most suitable dose is reached.
Children (2 years and over) - epilepsy only:
Treatment starts at 25 mg or less per day, depending on the body weight. This dose is then gradually increased over weekly periods or longer, until the most suitable dose is reached.
If you forget to take Topamax, take your dose as soon as you remember, and then continue to take it as you would normally. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed. Do not take a double dose to make up for the dose you missed.
Keep Topamax in a cool dry place.
Precautions
Before taking Topamax, tell your doctor if:
you are allergic to any medicines;
you have kidney, liver or eye disease, or have or have ever had a personality disorder or mental illness;
you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Ingredients
Active ingredient: topiramate.