| Usage |
Usage
Topiramate is available in tablet, sprinkle capsule, and extended-release capsule forms for oral administration. Tablets and sprinkle capsules are typically taken once or twice daily, with or without food. Typically, extended-release capsules are ingested once daily, either with or without food. It's crucial to take topiramate at the same time each day, following your prescription label instructions precisely. Avoid taking more or less than prescribed or altering the frequency without your doctor's guidance. Ensure you receive topiramate, not a similarly named medication, each time you refill your prescription. Confirm that your doctor's prescription is clear and legible, and consult your pharmacist to ensure you receive the correct medication. If you suspect a medication mix-up, contact your pharmacist immediately. Swallow topiramate tablets whole, as they have a bitter taste, and do not use broken tablets, as they may lose efficacy. Sprinkle capsules and extended-release capsules (Qudexy XR brand only) can be taken whole or opened and sprinkled over soft food, such as applesauce or yogurt. Swallow extended-release capsules (Trokendi XR brand only) whole, without breaking, chewing, or sprinkling on food. To take sprinkle capsules or extended-release capsules (Qudexy XR brand only) with food, follow these steps:
1. Prepare a spoonful of soft food (e.g., applesauce, yogurt, pudding).
2. Hold the capsule upright over the food.
3. Twist off the top of the capsule and pour its entire contents onto the spoonful of food.
4. Swallow the mixture immediately without chewing.
5. Drink fluids afterward to ensure you've swallowed the entire dose.
Typically, your doctor will initiate treatment with a low topiramate dose and gradually increase it, but no more frequently than once a week. While topiramate can manage seizures or migraines, it doesn't provide a cure. Continue taking topiramate as directed by your doctor, even if you feel well. Do not discontinue topiramate abruptly, especially if you experience unusual changes in behavior or mood, as this may lead to severe seizures, even if you haven't had seizures before. Your doctor will likely taper your dose gradually when discontinuing the medication.
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| Side Effects |
Side Effects
Topiramate may lead to various side effects. It's essential to inform your doctor if any of these symptoms become severe or persist:
1. Numbness, burning, or tingling in the hands or feet
2. Slowed reactions
3. Nervousness
4. Headache
5. Drowsiness
6. Weakness
7. Uncontrollable shaking of a part of the body
8. Uncontrollable eye movements
9. Weight loss
10. Constipation
11. Heartburn
12. Change in ability to taste food
13. Dry mouth
14. Nosebleed
15. Teary or dry eyes
16. Back, muscle, leg, or bone pain
17. Missed menstrual periods
18. Excessive menstrual bleeding
Certain side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms or those mentioned in the PRECAUTIONS section, contact your doctor promptly:
1. Blurred vision
2. Loss of vision
3. Double vision
4. Eye pain
5. Eye redness
6. Worsening of seizures
7. Feeling cold, chills, or having a low body temperature
8. Difficulty concentrating
9. Speech problems, especially difficulty recalling specific words
10. Confusion
11. Memory problems
12. Loss of coordination
13. Pounding or irregular heartbeat
14. Chest pain
15. Shortness of breath
16. Trouble breathing
17. Fast, shallow breathing
18. Inability to respond to surroundings
19. Excessive tiredness
20. Diarrhea
21. Nausea
22. Vomiting
23. Stomach pain
24. Loss of appetite
25. Intense back or side pain
26. Bloody, cloudy, or foul-smelling urine
27. Constant need to urinate
28. Difficulty urinating or pain when urinating
29. Fever or other signs of infection
Topiramate may have the potential to cause osteoporosis in adults (a condition where bones become more fragile and prone to fractures) and rickets in children (abnormal, curved bone growth). It may also affect the growth rate of children and potentially reduce their final height. It's crucial to discuss these risks with your doctor when considering topiramate treatment. If you encounter any unusual issues while taking this medication, contact your doctor.
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| Storage |
Storage
To ensure the safe storage of this medication:
1. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children.
2. Store tablets and extended-release capsules at room temperature, away from excessive heat and moisture (avoid bathroom storage).
3. Sprinkle capsules should be stored at or below 77°F (25°C).
4. Never keep broken tablets, capsules, or mixtures of sprinkles and soft food for later use; use them promptly or dispose of them.
5. Store all medications out of children's sight and reach, as many containers are not child-resistant.
6. Use safety caps and store medication in a secure location.
7. Do not flush this medication down the toilet; instead, explore medicine take-back programs for proper disposal.
8. Consult your pharmacist or local garbage/recycling department for information on take-back programs in your area.
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| Precaution |
Precautions
Before using topiramate, consider the following precautions and important information:
1. Discuss any allergies to topiramate, other medications, or ingredients in the product with your doctor or pharmacist.
2. Inform your healthcare provider if you have metabolic acidosis and are taking metformin, as this combination may not be recommended.
3. Provide a complete list of all prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products to your doctor, including drugs like metformin, hormonal contraceptives, and others.
4. Report any history of kidney stones, mood changes, metabolic acidosis, osteopenia, osteomalacia, osteoporosis, diabetes, glaucoma, breathing disorders, depression, growth problems, or liver/kidney disease.
5. Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Topiramate may harm the fetus, so use appropriate birth control methods during treatment.
6. If surgery, including dental surgery, is planned, disclose your topiramate use to medical professionals.
7. Be aware that topiramate can cause drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, or difficulty concentrating. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you understand its effects.
8. Seizure control may not be immediate; continue precautions if you are prone to seizures.
9. Avoid alcohol within 6 hours before and after taking extended-release capsules (Trokendi XR brand).
10. Be cautious in hot weather, as topiramate may reduce sweating and hinder temperature regulation. Drink fluids and seek medical attention if you experience heat-related symptoms.
11. Topiramate can increase the risk of kidney stones; maintain adequate hydration.
12. Monitor your mental health for any unexpected changes, especially if taking topiramate for epilepsy or mental health conditions. Report any symptoms like suicidal thoughts, mood changes, or unusual behavior promptly.
Discuss these points with your healthcare provider to ensure the safe and effective use of topiramate.
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