Topiramate is a drug to relieve seizures caused by epilepsy. Lennox-gastaut syndrome is a type of epilepsy that can be treated with this drug. Topiramate can also be used to prevent migraines. This medicine should only be used according to a doctor's prescription.
The way topiramate works is not known for certain. However, topiramate is thought to work by inhibiting the activity of signaling chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters), so that abnormal electrical activity can be stopped. This way of working will help relieve seizures caused by epilepsy.
Topiramate trademarks : Epilep, Topamax
What is Topiramate _
| class | Prescription drug |
| Category | Anticonvulsant |
| Benefit | Relieves seizures caused by epilepsy and prevents migraines |
| Consumed by | Adults and children |
| Topiramate for pregnant and lactating women |
Category D: There is positive evidence of risk to the human fetus, but the benefits may outweigh the risks, for example in dealing with a life-threatening situation.
Topiramate can be absorbed into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor first. |
| Drug form | Capsules and tablets |
Precautions Before Taking Topiramate
Topiramate should only be used as prescribed by a doctor. Here are some things you need to pay attention to before consuming topiramate:
- Do not take topiramate if you are allergic to this drug. Always tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
- Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had porphyria , glaucoma, kidney disease , respiratory problems, depression , liver disease, osteoporosis , or acidosis
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements or herbal products.
- See a doctor immediately if you experience mood swings that are very disturbing or if you are suicidal .
- Always drink sufficient amounts of water while on treatment with topiramate, to prevent dehydration , electrolyte disturbances, or kidney stones .
- Do not drive a vehicle or do activities that require alertness while being treated with topiramate, because this drug can cause dizziness.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy.
- Immediately see a doctor if you have an allergic drug reaction, serious side effects, or an overdose after taking topiramate.
Dosage and Rules for Using Topiramate
The dose of topiramate given by the doctor depends on the health condition and age of the patient. Here is the explanation:
Purpose : Overcome epilepsy
- Adult : Initially, 25 mg taken at night for 1 week. Dosage may be increased by 25–50 mg 1–2 weeks apart. Maintenance dose of 100 mg per day. The maximum dose is 500 mg per day.
- Children ≥6 years: Initially 0.5–1 mg/kg taken at night for 1 week. Dosage can be increased by 0.5–1 mg/kg BW with a distance of 1–2 weeks.
Purpose : Prevent migraines
- Adult : Initially, 25 mg taken at night for 1 week. Dosage may be increased by 25 mg 1 week apart. The maintenance dose is 50–100 mg per day. The maximum dose is 200 mg per day.
Purpose : Overcome seizures in patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome
- Adult : Initially, 25–50 mg taken at night for 1 week. Dosage may be increased by 25–50 mg 1–2 weeks apart. Maintenance dose 200–400 mg per day.
- Children ≥2 years: Initially, 25 mg taken at night for 1 week. Dosage can be increased by 1–3 mg/kg BW with a distance of 1–2 weeks. Maintenance dose 5–9 mg/kg per day.
How to Take Topiramate Properly
First read the instructions listed on the drug packaging and follow the doctor 's recommendations when taking topiramate. Do not reduce or increase your dose without consulting your doctor first.
Topiramate can be taken with or without food. Use a glass of water to swallow the tablet or capsule. Do not crush, chew, or split the medication as this can increase the risk of side effects.
Drink plenty of water while undergoing treatment with this drug, to prevent kidney stone disease.
If you forget to take your topiramate, take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearing time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and do not double your topiramate dose to make up for the missed dose.
Carry out regular checks while undergoing treatment with topiramate. Do not stop medication without consulting your doctor first.
Store your topiramate in a place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Topiramate Interactions with Other Drugs
There are several possible interaction effects if topiramate is taken with certain drugs, including:
- Decreased blood levels of topiramate when used with carbamazepine or phenytoin
- Increased risk of developing hyperammonemia when used with valproic acid
- Increased levels of topiramate in the blood when used with hydrochlorothiazide
- Decreased levels of digoxin , pioglitazone , glibenclamide , in the blood
- Decreased effectiveness of birth control pills that contain estrogen
- Increased levels of lithium in the blood
Topramate Side Effects and Dangers
Side effects that may arise after consuming topiramate include:
- Headache, nervousness, or drowsiness
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
- Weak
- Constipation
- Heartburn
- Tremors
- Disorders of the menstrual cycle, one of which is not menstruating
- Easy bruising or nosebleeds
- Dry mouth
Check with your doctor if the complaints mentioned above do not go away or get worse. Immediately see a doctor if you experience an allergic drug reaction or experience more serious side effects, such as:
- Visual disturbances, such as blurred vision, double vision, pain in the eyes, or red eyes
- Seizures that occur more often or last longer
- Impaired memory or difficulty speaking
- Loss of coordination ability
- Chest pain , irregular heartbeat, fast breathing, or difficulty breathing
- Loss of appetite, stomach pain, or back pain
- Pain when urinating, difficulty urinating, or bloody , cloudy, or foul-smelling urine