Topiramate tablets or sprinkle capsules
What do topiramate tablets or sprinkle capsules do?
TOPIRAMATE (Topamax(R)) is effective in helping to control seizures (convulsions) in adults or children with various forms of epilepsy.
What should my health care professional know before I take topiramate?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• glaucoma
• kidney stones
• kidney or liver disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to topiramate, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take topiramate tablets and capsules by mouth. Swallow the tablets whole with a drink of water; do not crush or chew. The capsules can be swallowed whole or opened carefully and the contents sprinkled on about on a small amount of soft food, such as applesauce, pudding, ice cream, oatmeal, or yogurt. This mixture must be swallowed immediately; do not chew or store the sprinkles on the food for later use. Be sure to take the entire dose. You may take topiramate with meals. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. Topiramate has been used in children for the treatment of various seizure disorders.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What other medicines can interact with topiramate?
• acetazolamide
• birth control pills or other hormones for birth control, including implants or injections
• carbamazepine
• dichlorphenamide
• digoxin
• ethanol
• medications for pain, sleep, or muscle relaxation
• methazolamide
• phenytoin
• probenecid
• valproic acid
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking topiramate?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• agitation, restlessness, irritability, or other changes in mood
• depression, or mood changes
• difficulty breathing
• difficulty speaking
• difficulty walking or controlling muscle movements
• eye pain
• hearing impairment
• kidney stones (severe pain in the side or back, or on urination)
• nose bleeds
• skin rash, itching
• swelling of the face, lips or tongue
• tingling, pain or numbness in the hands or feet
• unusual weakness or tiredness
• vision problems, like blurred vision
• vomiting
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• back pain, joint aches and pains
• breast pain
• diarrhea, or constipation
• difficulty sleeping
• dizziness, drowsiness
• dry mouth
• headache
• hot flashes
• loss of appetite
• menstrual disorder
• muscle aches or pains
• nausea
• swelling of the gums
• stomach upset, indigestion
• stuffy, runny nose
• sweating
• tiredness or weakness
• tremor