Topamax is a drug used specifically to treat central nervous system conditions such as epilepsy and migraines. Topamax may also be used in the treatment of seizures as an adjunct medicine, that is, a medicine used in conjunction with another medicine. Off label uses of Topamax are for obesity treatment, seizures in infants, bipolar disorder, alcoholism, absence seizures, diabetic neuropathy and atonic seizures. It may be used to treat children and adults. Using Topamax may put you at risk for developing or experiencing some serious or minor side effects, depending on how your body reacts to the medicine.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects are strange sensations in the body such as a "burning" feeling, dizziness, fatigue, slow cognitive and physical reaction, drowsiness, anxiety, upper respiratory infection, coordination problems, weight loss, loss of appetite, changes in the taste of food or beverage items or changes in the sensation of touch, confusion, impotence, trouble with concentration and attention and nausea.
Other Side Effects
The lesser side effects noted are diarrhea, gait changes, sinus infection, language or speech disruption, insomnia, memory loss or impairment, back pain, changes in mood, indigestion, viral infections, dry mouth stomach, joint pain, sore throat, weakness, somnolence (being in a state near being asleep), paresthesia (sensations of tingling, pricking, or numbness), leg pain, hypertonia (tightness in muscles and trouble stretching), libido decrease, urinary disorders, anemia, reduction in eating or anorexia and ataxia (problems in the central nervous system with body movement).
Children's Side Effects
Any side effect symptoms adults experience may occur in children as well, however; some symptoms of Topamax are exclusive to children. These symptoms are bruising, hair loss, bronchitis, increase of saliva production, aggression, constipation, fever and a runny nose.
Severe Side Effects
Severe side effects of Topamax would typically require medical treatment if they intensify or continue for a long period of time. The severe side effect of Topamax include depression, thoughts of suicide or suicidal behavior, hallucinations, paranoia, blood clots, kidney stones, low or high blood pressure, difficulty breathing or swallowing (which may lead to a pulmonary embolism), fainting, chest pain, rapid breathing (which may lead to metabolic acidosis) and decreased sweating with or without a high fever.
Severe Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions can be fatal and progress quickly over time. It is important to seek medical treatment if you experience an allergic reaction to Topamax. The allergic reaction symptoms are hives, developing a rash, swelling, itching, wheezing and difficulty in breathing or swallowing.
Tags: allergic reaction, , central nervous, central nervous system, difficulty breathing