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Drug

Topiramate

Pronounced

"toe-PYRE-a-mate"

Uses

Topiramate is used alone and with other medications to prevent and control seizures (epilepsy). It is also used to prevent migraine headaches. Topiramate belongs to a class of drugs known as anticonvulsants.

Other Uses

This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.

This drug may also be used for binge eating disorder (BED).

How to Use This Medication

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking topiramate and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. You may swallow this medication whole, or you may open the capsule and sprinkle the contents on a teaspoonful of soft food (such as applesauce, yogurt). Swallow the drug/food mixture right away. Do not crush or chew the mixture. Do not prepare the mixture ahead of time for later use. Drink some liquid after swallowing the mixture to make sure all of the drug is swallowed.

To prevent kidney stones from forming, drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Children's dosage is also based on weight. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.

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Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

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Information expires December 2025.