Topiramate Side Effects

Loss of appetite, dizziness, and burning or tingling sensations are some of the side effects reported by adults taking topiramate. Side effects that have been seen in children taking the drug include irritated or runny nose, constipation, and fever. In most cases, topiramate side effects are mild and don't require medical attention, but certain problems may be more serious and should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately. Let your healthcare provider know if you develop depression, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, vision problems, or hallucinations.

 

Topiramate Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with topiramate (Topamax®). However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can be easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, possible side effects with topiramate. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of topiramate side effects with you.)
 

Common Topiramate Side Effects in Adults

Topiramate has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials in which a group of people taking the drug have side effects documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, the most common topiramate side effects in adults include:
 
  • Unusual sensations, such as burning or tingling (paresthesias) -- in up to 51 percent of people
  • Dizziness -- up to 32 percent
  • Fatigue -- up to 30 percent
  • Drowsiness -- up to 29 percent
  • Mental and physical slowing or delays -- up to 21 percent
  • Nervousness -- up to 19 percent
  • Upper respiratory infection (such as the common cold) -- up to 18 percent
  • Coordination problems -- up to 16 percent
  • Weight loss -- up to 16 percent (see Topamax Weight Loss)
  • Loss of appetite -- up to 15 percent
  • Taste changes -- up to 15 percent
  • Confusion -- up to 14 percent
  • Difficulty with concentration or attention -- up to 14 percent
  • Nausea -- up to 14 percent.
     
Some other common side effects, occurring in 5 to 13 percent of adults, include:
 
  • Diarrhea
  • Memory loss
  • Anxiety
  • Language or speech problems
  • Changes in gait (walking pattern)
  • Sinus infection or irritation
  • Injury
  • Insomnia
  • Mood problems
  • Decreased sense of touch
  • Viral infections
  • Abdominal pain (or stomach pain)
  • Joint pain
  • Weakness
  • Sore throat
  • Dry mouth
  • Indigestion
  • Mood problems
  • Back pain.
     
Impotence (also known as erectile dysfunction or ED) is also a common side effect of topiramate, although the exact percentage was not reported (see Topamax Sexual Side Effects).
 
(Topiramate Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;