Topamax (Generic)

Generic Topamax (topiramate) is an anticonvulsant, i.e. it can be used alone or along with other medications to fight seizures in children and adults. In addition, it can be used for prevention of migraines and to reduce the number of migraine attacks. However, it will not cure an attack that has already started.

Generic Topamax should be taken according to your doctor's instructions and directions on the prescription label. Do not change the dosage or period of use without prior medical consult.

Generic Topamax should be swallowed without chewing or crashing, during meals or otherwise.

If you experience any symptoms associated with allergies such as difficulty breathing, hives, swollen tongue etc., stop using the medication and seek urgent medical help. Also report mood changes, anxiety, panic attacks or insomnia.

Contact a medical specialist immediately if you experience any of the following: sigh problems, pain in the eye area or behind the eyes; dry mouth, thirst, sleepiness, reduced perspiration, fever and hot skin; impeded thinking, mental confusion, concentration problems, speech or balance problems; vomiting, lack of appetite, fatigue, uneven heartbeat, feeling close to fainting; acute side or lower back pain; painful urination.

Common side effects of taking Generic Topamax include: mild dizziness, nervousness, numbness, tingly sensation, weight loss, diarrhea, and common cold symptoms.

Note that this list of side effects is not complete.

As Generic Topamax may slow down your thinking or reactions as well as cause blurred vision, use extra caution while driving or taking up any other activity that requires utmost concentration after taking Generic Topamax. Do not combine the medication with alcohol as it may increase the probability of side effects and increase the risk of seizure.

Avoid ketogenic diets that are high in fat and low in carbohydrates, as it may increase the risk of kidney stones.

Notify your doctor of all other medications you are taking, especially: lithium (Eskalith, LithoBid); hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ, HydroDiuril, Hyzaar, Lopressor, Vasoretic, Zestoretic); metformin (Glucophage, Actoplus Met, Avandamet, Fortamet, Janumet, PrandiMet, Riomet); atropine (Atreza, Sal-Tropine), belladonna (Donnatal, etc.), benztropine (Cogentin), dimenhydrinate (Dramamine), methscopolamine (Pamine), or scopolamine (Transderm-Scop); bronchodilators such as ipratropium (Atrovent) or tiotropium (Spiriva); bladder or urinary medications such as darifenacin (Enablex), solifenacin (Vesicare), etc.; glaucoma medications such as acetazolamide (Diamox) or methazolamide (Neptazane); other seizure medications such as carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Equetro, Tegretol), lamotrigine (Lamictal), phenytoin (Dilantin), valproic acid (Depakote, Depakene), or zonisamide (Zonegran).

Use extra caution when combining Generic Topamax with cold or allergy medications, sedatives, painkillers, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers and antidepressants, as they may increase the sleepy effect of Generic Topamax.

Other medications may interact with Generic Topamax as well.

If you have missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you have missed.

Generic Topamax should be stored between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C) away from light and moisture, out of reach of children and pets.