Can Anyone Give Feedback on Topamax? - Headaches & Migraines Message Board

ihaveaheadache · 12-30-2006, 10:08 AM

When I go back to the headache center in the next couple of weeks I am going to discuss preventatives. I've looked into all of the options that they told me about the last visit. The one that sounds the most effective for most people is Topamax. However, given the long list of side effects I am scared. Has anyone taken this drug and if so, what were your side effects? Was it effective? Thanks!

konniep · 12-30-2006, 02:52 PM

I take Topamax, one 25mg tablet in the morning and 2/25mg tablets in the evening. I've been taking them for about 6 months now and so far, I haven't had the memory loss or anything like that. My doctor has asked me about that and all, and when I told her no, she seemed surprised. So I asked her why, and she said that most of her patients usually ask her to take them off of it because of that! It hasn't affected me at all in that way. It has helped as far as my headaches though. I also take Relpax, 40mg when I actually do get a migraine. And let me tell you, that is a wonder drug!! I would definitely recommend it!! Hope this helps.
Konnie

ihaveaheadache · 12-30-2006, 04:26 PM

Konnie, how many headaches were you getting before the Topamax as opposed to now? I think I am at that desperate stage where I am finally willing to go on daily medication. Sounds like the most success is with Topamax.

konniep · 12-31-2006, 01:16 PM

I was getting at least 2-3 a week! It was really messing with my job. I had to go home early alot of days because of it. But when I started on the Topamax, it helped sooooo much, now I get about 1-2 a month! I think it's worth a shot if you're having that much trouble. Good luck and please keep me posted. Hope everything works out for you because I know exactly how you feel.

Konnie

rachelleng · 01-01-2007, 08:58 AM

I am on my third week of Topamax, the benefits are worth it! I started off at only one 25 mg pill per day the first wk , 2 25 mg pills the 2nd wk, and so on working my way up to 8 pills a day. There are side effects. The first night - rough! After that, only tingling in my hands and feet, puffy face - water retention, and metal taste. The good news though is that I went from DAILY migraines to hours pain free and even occassional days that are quite productive. I still have to rely on Imitrex and every OTC I can get my hands on, but each week that I add a Topamax pill, I can tell a difference in relief from my migraines. My doc says that I won't see the biggest change until I am on full strenth - 8 pills.