Today I was diagnosed with peti-mal seizures after an abnormal EEG test. They put me on Topamax (25 mg, twice daily). I have several questions..

1) What happens when you don't treat the seizures? Long term, especially. Can I die? Can they get worse?

2)(Posted in Drug Interactions as well). I am currently taking an oral contraceptive (Tri-Sprintec. 28 days, with 7 days of placebo). My neurologist knows this. Upon researching this myself, I've found that Topamax can decrease the effectiveness of the birth control. Is there any birth control pill that is effective to use when taking this? If the seizures are something I can live with, is treatment neccessary? Is there any medication like Topamax that I can take that doesn't interfere with the BCP?

Anybody? Please.. :(

Sorry just saw this post......

Long term, untreated seizures can get worse, the brain can have shrinkage and schlerosing, memory issues.....the list goes on.

I am not sure about the birth control. I do know that many AEDs do mention that problem. I would ask your GYN doctor or the pharmacist if there is one that does not get weaker when you use AEDs......maybe for a time try an extra form of birth control? Foam or the sponge?

Originally Posted by: Greenteaeffect
I've found that Topamax can decrease the effectiveness of the birth control.

I actually just went to by neuorlogist (sp?) this past week to ask him about birth control and anti seizure drugs. Basically with what I'm on (Tegretol and Lacmictal) they will decrease the effectiveness of the BC. He said that most anti seizure medications will do that. And I should not use it has an actually form of birth control without another form as well. I would call your doctor and ask him about...maybe Topamax is different.