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        New Message Board Archives >> Medications, Treatments, Therapies 2004 >> Questions regarding Topamax, Frova, Asthma meds
        
(Message started by: mom2allyson0526 on Oct 15^th, 2004, 1:13am)

Title: Questions regarding Topamax, Frova, Asthma meds
Post by mom2allyson0526 on Oct 15^th, 2004, 1:13am

I have a few questions that I'm hoping someone, anyone can help me with. This is the first time a doctor has actually attempted to treat my headaches and I've read some really bad things about what he prescribed, so I'm trying to get the facts.

1. He prescribed Topamax for daily use. He said it will keep the nerves in my face from reacting, thus preventing facial swelling, and will prevent the headaches. I've read about side effects such as memory problems, speech problems, problems with balance and coordination, etc. Has anyone expereinced these side effects? What side effects have you experienced? Are they worth it?

2. What about Frova? He told me to take it only when I have a headache that is obviously severe (as if I would have to question it!) Anyone taking it? What kind of side effects have you experienced?

3. I'm also asthmatic, but have been off my asthma meds since I was pregnant with my daughter. When I was taking them (2 puffs of 250 mg. Advair or Flovent, twice a day) the headaches really decreased in frequency. My understanding from what I've read is that it would be due to the steroids in them. Is anyone actually taking steroids or asthma meds for headaches?

I hope someone can give me some information. In the past I've taken a drug cocktail of Alka Seltzer, Excedrin Migraine, and sometimes Tylenol. It's a wonder I didn't accidently kill myself.
:(

Title: Re: Questions regarding Topamax, Frova, Asthma med
Post by DerbyDemon on Oct 15^th, 2004, 10:25am

No doubt you have read that everyone reacts differently to the many options that we have available to us. Personally I have never had any reactions to Topamax good or bad. It hasn't helped me loose wait or curb my smoking (the supposed good effects) and I'm on high doses.

I was put on Frova and gave it about two weeks. For ME, my CHs went from two to four a day. But again that is ME. Other than that I had no side effects.

You are correct about your observation with the asthma meds. Most people in here go on some sort of steroid treatment to bust out of a cycle. My most recent cycle it took four steroid tapers to finally get any results. At one time, I was on Singulair as a preventative; self prescribed by me.

Personally I have a very high tollerance for the meds and have no side effects (well some minor twitching) that I'm currently on. You are doing the right thing by asking lots of questions, get some response, and see how you react to what is precribed.

Title: Re: Questions regarding Topamax, Frova, Asthma med
Post by thebbz on Oct 15^th, 2004, 9:35pm

This is my expierence with the drugs indicated. Topomax made my CH worse.
Frova is another constrictor like imitrex. I can use all the triptans, and have to, as after 4 or 5 doses of one the beast find a way around that particular brand, so I mix them up .
I use a prednisone taper to break an episode or cluster.Most times the beast will hit during the tail end of the taper so proper dosage is important and different for all. ;;D :D ;) Steriods suck. Hope that helps ,
BB