topiramate (Topamax)

Topiramate is an anticonvulsant type of medication used to treat epilepsy, types of seizures, and migraines. Topiramate may also be used off-label, or outside its approved uses, to treat certain other conditions including neuropathic pain, binge eating disorder, cluster headaches, alcohol and tobacco dependence, Tourette syndrome, and other conditions.

Yes, weight loss is a common side effect of taking topiramate. In fact, the medication is sometimes combined with another medication (phentermine) for the purpose of causing weight loss in certain people. The brand name of the combination drug is called Qsymia. Talk with your provider to learn more about possible weight loss with topiramate treatment.

There may be several reasons why you're not losing weight while on topiramate. Medications affect people differently, and how your body responds to topiramate may affect how effective the medication is for you. Factors such as your dosage, other medications you may be taking, and other conditions you may have could impact levels of weight loss with topiramate. Talk with your provider for more information about weight loss with topiramate.

No, topiramate is not a controlled substance and is not habit-forming. If you have further questions about topiramate's effects, talk with your provider or pharmacist.

Mild side effects of topiramate such as nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea may be temporary and go away with continued treatment. However, other side effects of topiramate may last longer, such as sleepiness, mood or personality changes, eye changes, and other serious side effects. If you're concerned about certain side effects of topiramate and how they may affect you, talk with your provider or pharmacist.

Yes, sleepiness is a common side effect of topiramate. Sleepiness may affect you more when you first begin taking the medication, though it can also last. Don't drive or operate machinery until you know how topiramate affects you. If this is a bothersome side effect, you and your provider can discuss ways to manage the sleepiness, or they may suggest switching to a different medication.

How long it takes topiramate to work for you depends on the condition it's being used to treat, your dosage, and how you respond to treatment. The drug starts to work after you take a dose, but it may take several weeks to months before you notice a clear improvement in your symptoms.

You can meet with a licensed provider at Thriveworks, in person or online depending on your state. If it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe medication for a diagnosed mental health condition. Your provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication your provider prescribes, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your plan to confirm your medical and prescription coverage.

Schedule a session with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After discussing your symptoms and treatment goals, your provider may recommend medication and/or additional services to help you get where you want to be.

Yes. Thriveworks is LegitScript-certified, meaning we’ve been reviewed and verified by one of the most trusted compliance organizations in healthcare. This certification confirms that our services meet high standards for legality, safety, and transparency.