Topamax, known by the generic name topiramate, is a drug that is used to treat epilepsy. It has also been used with some success in treating migraine headaches. Like any other drug, the side effects of Topamax must be considered before treatment is started. Possible side effects of this drug affect the gastrointestinal, nervous, urinary and respiratory systems and can also cause psychiatric effects and skin disorders.
General Effects
Several side effects of Topamax cannot be classified by body system. Instead, they affect the body overall. According to the National Institutes of Health Daily Med, these general side effects include chest pain, pain in the legs and physical weakness. Physicians from the Mayo Clinic indicate that this drug can also cause drowsiness. Caution should be exercised when driving or using heavy equipment while taking Topamax.
Gastrointestinal System
Topamax has been known to cause several side effects that affect the gastrointestinal system. According to the National Institutes of Health, these side effects include diarrhea, heartburn, gas, constipation, dry mouth, increased saliva and a change in the ability to taste foods. More serious gastrointestinal side effects include nausea, stomach pain, loss of appetite and vomiting. These serious side effects should be reported to a physician immediately.
Nervous System
Several side effects of Topamax have a direct effect on the nervous system. The National Institutes of Health's Daily Med on Topamax indicates that nervous system side effects include dizziness, increased muscle tension, lack of coordination, pins and needles in the hands and feet, and reduced sensation. Physicians from the Mayo Clinic also cite clumsiness as a side effect of Topamax.
Psychiatric Effects
A number of psychiatric side effects have been reported with the use of Topamax. The National Institutes of Health lists anorexia, insomnia, memory loss, depression, inability to concentrate, anxiety, mood changes, decreased libido, confusion and cognitive problems as possible side effects of this drug. Psychiatric side effects should be reported to a physician as soon as they occur.
Urinary System
The National Institutes of Health indicates that Topamax can have several urinary system side effects. These side effects include kidney stones, inflammation of the bladder, painful urination, more frequent urination and urinary tract infection. Users are warned to seek immediate medical attention if they have a constant need to urinate, as this can signal a more serious condition.
Skin Disorders
Physicians from the Mayo Clinic cite several side effects of Topamax that can affect the skin. Rare side effects include itching and skin rash. The incidence of some side effects of this medication has not been determined. Other skin side effects may include blisters on the scalp or trunk of the body, peeling or loosening of skin and red skin lesions. If the skin side effects are bothersome, they should be reported to a physician.
Respiratory System
Both the Mayo Clinic and the National Institutes of Health indicate that Topamax can have respiratory system side effects. According to physicians from the Mayo Clinic, troubled breathing is one of the side effects of using this drug. The National Institutes of Health also lists bronchitis and rhinitis as respiratory system side effects of Topamax. These effects should be reported to a doctor.
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