What Is Topamax (Topiramate)?
Topamax is the generic form of the drug topiramate. Topiramate medications were designed as antiepileptic and anticonvulsive agents to treat seizures in people with epilepsy. Since the drug became available, it has been used to treat migraines and help people recover from alcoholism and drug addiction. The effectiveness of Topamax in treating drug addiction is still being researched.
Recently, Topamax has been prescribed to people with bipolar disorder and especially people with the co-occurring bipolar disorder and drug addiction. Topamax is said to help stop cravings, stabilize mood, and help prolong abstinence from drug or alcohol use. Topamax is also often used in rehabilitation centers, to help prevent seizures and convulsions in people undergoing drug and alcohol detoxification.
How Is Topamax (Topiramate) Used?
Topamax should be used exactly as prescribed by your medical provider. For ongoing treatment, such as migraine or seizure prevention, Topamax is typically prescribed to take twice daily. If you are receiving Topamax to help prevent detoxification seizures or to treat alcoholism or bipolar disorder, your dosage may vary. When taking topiramate, always follow your doctors’ specific instruction as they relate to you. Do not take Topamax with other drugs and be sure to consult with a medical provider if you are on any other prescription medications. Something as common as hormonal birth control pills and interact with Topamax.
Some of the common side effects associated with Topamax include fatigue, tiredness, dizziness, tingling in hands and feet, impaired speech and trouble focusing. While these side effects are expected, if they become severe or are altering the quality of your life, consult a medical provider. Additionally, if you are experiencing any of the following dangerous side effects, call for medical assistance immediately: symptoms of kidney stones, blood in urine, vomiting and fever.
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Topamax (Topiramate) Addiction
Taking topiramate as prescribed does not mean you are dependent on the drug, but dependence can occur and with that and the risk of addiction increases. If you or someone you know may be experiencing addiction to Topamax, there is help out there.
Not sure if you or a loved one is experiencing addiction? Consider if Topamax is the first thing you think of when you wake up or if taking the medication is what you plan your day around. Do you experience withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea and headache, if you miss a dose or are due for your next pill? Are you mixing Topamax with other drugs or alcohol to heighten the effects? These are all considerations to take and help determine if Topamax addiction may be affecting your life.
