Topamax is the brand name of Topiramate. It is prescribed to treat epileptic seizures and migraines. It may, however, interfere with birth control, especially hormone-based birth control pills, notes the Mayo Clinic. It is classed as a category C medication by the Food and Drug Administration, which means it is not recommended for use while pregnant during any trimester due to the potential impact on the developing fetus. While no human studies have been done, animal studies suggest that Topamax can cause a number of issues in a developing fetus.
Birth Defects
While animal studies are the main cause of the Class C categorization, a few small studies of pregnant woman with seizures have noted that Topamax may cause birth defects. This study, noted in the July 2008 journal of "Neurology" noted that boy babies were born with hypospadias, where the urinary tract opening is not at the top of the penis. However, these women were also medicated with additional anti-seizure medications, so it's unclear if Topamax alone is the cause of this issue.
Miscarriage
In standard animal studies using rats, rabbits and mice, Topamax usage was linked to an increased miscarriage rate. These studies were analyzed in a meta-analysis conducted by Doctors Altshuler, Cohen, Szuba, Burt, Gitlin and Mintz in 1996. They reviewed all English-language studies between 1966 and 1995 to evaluate anecdotal use of psychotropic medication during pregnancy as well as animal studies. Women who become pregnant while using Topamax should discuss their pregnancy with their doctor to determine the benefits and costs of the medication.
Low Birth Weight
For animal testing, low birth weights were observed. Topamax has a known side effect of slowing growth in children, as noted by the Mayo Clinic. However, no human studies have been conducted to determine if Topamax alone can cause this result.
Don't Stop Suddenly
Ceasing Topamax without tailing off gently can cause your seizures to return more frequently. Because seizures can also be damaging to a fetus, it's critical to discuss with your doctor any potential pregnancy.
Helping Others
Consult with your physician if you become pregnant while using Topamax. Your doctor may suggest that you register with a pregnancy database to aid scientists in tracking the impact of the Topamax on your pregnancy. This information is typically compiled into meta-analysis information, such as the meta-analysis conducted in 1996 and will help other women and the scientific community better understand how Topamax will impact pregnancy.
