Topiramate
(Topamax, United States)

More drugs used for Epilepsy.

Use:

Topiramate or Topamax is used in partial onset seizures as add on therapy. It is intended to augment other drugs, for example carbamazepine or phenytoin, when they are not effective.

How It Works:

Side Effects:

Topiramate or Topamax is associated with cognitive side effects - slowed thinking, slowed speech, difficulty concentrating.

Cautions for People:

Because Topiramate or Topamax is started at a low dose which is gradually increased over a period of 8 weeks, people must realize that the drug requires about two months to elicit its full effect.

Drug Interactions:

Topiramate or Topamax, being an add on drug, is often combined with other drugs. Care must be taken when combinations include other drugs that can also impair cognitive abilities.

Further Reading:

N Engl J Med 1996;354:168,1553
Ann Pharmacother 1996;30:1272
Drugs 1996;52:483
B M J 1996;313:1169

Added to Virtual Drugstore April 1997.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.

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