Question: Topamax for Migraine prevention...split dosage?
Answer:
Dear Faye,
I'm not a physician and can't give you medical advice. I'm sure Dr. Krusz would
say that he prescribes it in a split dose, but wouldn't dream of second guessing
your daughter's doctor.
I can give you some information for you to discuss with her doctor. How would
that be?
Topamax is NOT time-released. Thus, it's generally prescribed in a split dose so
that the levels stay steady. Splitting the dose also makes it less likely that
patients will experience any side effects. I interviewed Dr. Stephen
Silberstein, who is one of the doctors who conducted the clinical trials of
Topamax for Migraine prevention. He advises that it always be taken in a split
dose. Here's an article based on that interview:
Topamax for Prevention: Proper Dosage and Taper
Topamax (topiramate), a medication originally developed for seizure control, has
been prescribed for several years now for prevention of cluster headaches and
Migraine attacks. Here's important information about how to best use this
medication.
You can also go to the manufacturer's web site at
www.topamax.com, and read the full
prescribing information. In all the dosing
recommendations, it says, "in two divided doses."
Obviously, you're concerned about her taking it all in one dose, or you wouldn't
have written. I'd suggest discussing this with her doctor. Even if the doctor
doesn't feel it needs to be taken in a split dose, he will probably go with what
makes you and your daughter most comfortable.
Please let me know how things go and if we can help you in any way. I'm glad the
Topamax is working for your daughter!
Good luck,
Teri Robert
(Answer reviewed by
John Claude Krusz.)
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