Do the side effects of topiramate (Topamax) wear off?

Question: Do the side effects of topiramate (Topamax) wear off?

Answer:

Full Question:

I have suffered with headaches since the age of 24, they progressively got worse after my two children were born when I was 26 and 20 respectively. I can suffer with anxiety which was aggravated by a very emotional divorce and now have been put into a chronic daily headache group. I have seen Prof. Goadsby at the National Hospital in London he suggested a 9 day hospital stay with which I would come off all painkillers the main suspect being codeine and paracetamol combos due to rebound headaches. Since leaving the hospital I have not had the codeine just Naramig and aspirin/nurofen when necessary but only on so many days per month. I have had very little relief from my headaches so therefore have been put on Topiramate. I am currently on amitriptyline 50mgs which I have been advised to stay on until the topiramate has settled. I have started taking 25mgs every other night gradually building up to 100mgs daily. What I would like to know is do the side effects wear off as I am experiencing light headiness, slight nausea and a feeling of detachment. As I have two children to look after this is of concern to me. Your comments would be greatly appreciated. Anna.

Answer:

Dear Anna;

The side effects of topiramate (Topamax) do dissipate for some people, but not for everyone. Only time will tell. Professor Goadsby probably has you splitting your daily dose, taking it in two doses per day. One reason that's done is to reduce the incidence of side effects. Some people find that the nausea is reduced if they don't take topiramate on an empty stomach.

Good luck,
Teri Robert and John Claude Krusz

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