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Download Antiepileptic Medication: Topamax (topiramate)
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Transcript
Antiepileptic Medication: Topamax (topiramate) General Information Topamax is one of the newer antiepileptic medications. It was developed in the 1980s. It is used for the treatment of partial seizures with or without secondary generalizations, primarily generalized seizures, drop attacks in Lennox Gestaut, and West’s syndrome. • Drug specific: ▬ Weight loss & lack of appetite ▬ Sudden eye pain with a history of glaucoma. ▬ Numbness & tingling of extremities ▬ Kidney stones How does it work? Topamax is a potent antiepileptic drug that works in multiple ways to prevent seizures. 1) It helps to block sodium channels. 2) It decreases the amount of excitatory chemicals in the brain 3) It increases the amount of inhibitory chemicals in the brain. • Dose-related: ▬ Tiredness ▬ Difficulty concentrating ▬ Dizziness ▬ Memory difficulties ▬ Mood changes • Initiation: You may notice some dose-related side effects during the first couple of weeks of treatment. Your body should get used to the medication if you give it a chance. Available forms It is available in a generic as well as brand name in the following doses: 25, 50, 100, & 200 mg. tablets & 15 & 25 mg. sprinkles. You need to report any signs of drug specific reactions to the doctor immediately: especially eye pain. You may be asked to stop the medication. Interactions • Grapefruit Drug basics After you take your dose, it takes about 2-4 hours for the drug to have a maximum effect. You might be more aware of dose related side effects at this time if you have them. It takes 19-25 hours for half of the Topamax to leave your body. This allows you to take the medication twice a day. Less than 20% of the drug binds to proteins. This portion of the drug is not active. It is metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine. Side Effects There are 3 different types of side effects: • Some anticonvulsants may decrease Topamax levels • Oral contraceptives and Coumadin are metabolized faster when taking Topamax. Lab Monitoring We are able to check a Topamax level. However, it is not necessary to perform on a regular basis. It does take about 4 days to get your results. Final Note If you are having difficulty with you medication, please notify your doctor. It may be possible to adjust your dose. Created by Diana Murray RN, CNS, MS, CNRN & Mark Yerby MD, MPH Portland, Oregon 1/13/2010