Actively composed of topiramate, generic Topamax is used alone or in combination with other drugs to prevent and control epilepsy (seizures).
The medicine is also used to prevent a migraine headache and reduce its frequency and intensity. Please note that topiramate does not treat a migraine headache once it occurs.
Generic Topamax is an antiepileptic or anticonvulsant drug that treats epilepsy in adults and children aged 2 years and above. It is indicated for partial-onset seizures, generalized tonic-clonic seizures, and seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, a rare form of childhood epilepsy.
Manufacturers and Cost
The manufacturer of the brand Topamax is Janssen Pharmaceuticals. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of topiramate for epilepsy in 1998. Topiramate is also available as a generic drug and is considered to be as safe and effective as the brand-name drug.
The manufacturers of generic Topamax include Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Watson Labs, Zydus Pharmaceuticals, Accord Healthcare, Aurobindo Pharma, Cipla, Glenmark, Invagen Pharmaceuticals, Sun Pharma, Unichem Labs, Upsher-Smith Labs, among others.
The lowest price for the most common version of generic Topamax is around $5.40, which is 88% cheaper than the brand Topamax price of $45.79, according to GoodRx.
Dosage
The recommended dose for generic Topamax in adults and children above 12 is 400 mg per day in divided doses. However, the dosage may vary so you must seek medical advice before you start using this drug. Generic Topamax dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. The dosage for children is based on weight. For some conditions, you may start generic topiramate once daily at bedtime and then slowly increase the dose to twice a day.
Side Effects
Some of the common side effects of generic Topamax include fatigue, drowsiness, dizziness, tingling or numbness in extremities, loss of coordination, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and weight loss. Some may even experience mental problems such as confusion, trouble concentrating, nervousness, or speech issues. If any of these side effects persist, tell your doctor right away.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience serious side effects such as severe back or abdominal pain, fever, chills, painful urination, or blood in the urine. Some people who use generic Topamax may experience mood changes, depression, or suicidal thoughts. Tell your doctor if you experience any changes in your mental health.
Precautions
Before using generic Topamax, tell your doctor if you are allergic to topiramate; tell your doctor about the medical conditions you have or have had; tell your doctor the treatments you are undergoing. This epilepsy drug can make you a bit dizzy or drowsy so avoid driving, operating machinery, or doing things that need your mental alertness. Also, avoid alcohol or marijuana during the course of treatment. Generic Topamax may make you sweat less so avoid doing things that may cause heatstroke. Before undergoing any surgery, tell your surgeon or dentist that you have been using topiramate for epilepsy. Children and older adults are more sensitive to the side effects of generic Topamax. Check with your doctor whether you can use this anticonvulsant drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
