Description
Topamax (Topiramate)
Topamax (Topiramate) is also used to prevent migraine headaches but not to relieve the pain of migraine headaches when they occur in adults and children 12 years of age and older. Topiramate is in a class of medications called anticonvulsants. It works by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain. Topamax contains the active drug topiramate. Topamax belongs to a class of drugs called anticonvulsants. These drugs work in your brain to help prevent seizures. Some of these drugs, including Topamax, can also prevent migraine headaches. Topamax is typically taken every day.
Topiramate is used alone or with other medications to treat certain types of seizures including primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures (formerly known as a grand mal seizure; seizure that involves the entire body) and partial onset seizures (seizures that involve only one part of the brain). If you have trouble swallowing Topamax tablets, talk with your doctor about using Topamax sprinkle capsules instead. Topiramate comes as a tablet, a sprinkle capsule (capsule that contains small beads of medication that can be sprinkled on food), an extended-release (long-acting) capsule and solution (liquid) to take by mouth.
The tablets, sprinkle capsules, and solution are usually taken with or without food once or twice a day. Use a marked (calibrated) measuring device to measure the topiramate solution dose to make sure the correct dose is being given. Do not use a household teaspoon or tablespoon. Ask your pharmacist for an measuring device if one is not included with your medication. Topamax is approved for treating certain types of seizures in children ages 2 years and older. It’s also approved for preventing migraine headaches in children ages 12 years and older. Topiramate may control your seizures or migraines but will not cure your condition. Continue to take topiramate even if you feel well.
