Topamax is an anticonvulsant that is used to treat seizures in patients with epilepsy, as well as treat migraine headaches and bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is a psychiatric disorder characterized by cycles of manic and depressive episodes with periods of remission. Topamax contains the main active ingredient topiramate, which can cause serious side effects. The percentage of users who experienced these side effects varied depending on dosage and the patient's diagnosis, according to studies performed by Ortho-McNeil, the makers of Topamax.
Neurological
Topamax may cause neurological symptoms of somnolence, or excessive sleepiness, fatigue or insomnia. Parasthesia, or tingling of the hands and feet, was experienced by some patients. Less common side effects include mental and physical slowing of thought and movement, problems with coordination, problems with concentration, and symptoms of dizziness and confusion.
Gastrointestinal
Gastrointestinal side effects of Topamax include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, constipation and stomach cramping.
Dermatological
Topamax may cause decreased sweating, which can lead to increased body temperature.
Renal
Patients who use Topamax may develop kidney stones. Topamax can also induce hyperammonemia, which is too much ammonia in the blood; symptoms include lethargy and vomiting.
Visual
Topamax use can cause a serious visual disorder consisting of acute myopia, or nearsightedness, and angle closure glaucoma, which can lead to blindness. Symptoms usually begin one month after taking Topamax, and symptoms include eye pain and decreased visual acuity.
Psychiatric
Topamax, like all anti-epileptic drugs, increases the rate of suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Topamax can also increase symptoms of depression and other mood problems.
References
- Pubmed Health: Topiramate
- Topamax: Prescribing Information
- "What Your Patients Need to Know about Psychiatric Medications"; Robert H. Chew, Robert E. Hales, and Stuart C. Yudofsky; 2009
