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        New Message Board Archives >> Medications, Treatments, Therapies 2004 >> Can you stop Topomax cold turkey?
        
(Message started by: jillybean on Dec 26^th, 2004, 12:09am)

Title: Can you stop Topomax cold turkey?
Post by jillybean on Dec 26^th, 2004, 12:09am

My husband is going bonkers on this stuff. I don't know how to help him other than to research.

Can he just stop taking it? Neuro office closed since last week.

He can't remember what he's in the middle of doing...he gets "stuck" on a task and gets angry when we try to help him escape a frustrating cycle. He is depressed that he is so mentally confused he can't care for himself.

Help!

Jill

Title: Re: Can you stop Topomax cold turkey?
Post by nani on Dec 26^th, 2004, 12:18am

Hi Jilly...I don't think it's okay to stop Topomax cold turkey. You have to wean yourself off of it. Preferably under dr recommendations. I haven't taken it, but I take a similar anti convulsant. I always cut back slowly. Why don't you at least call the pharmacy for advice if it's too long before your hubby can see the doc. Good luck...PF wishes to him.

Title: Re: Can you stop Topomax cold turkey?
Post by unsolved1 on Dec 26^th, 2004, 12:19am

Try lowering the dose until you can speak with a doc.

I did Topamax twice and I believe I stopped it cold turkey both times.

Unsolved

Title: Re: Can you stop Topomax cold turkey?
Post by Rock_Lobster on Dec 26^th, 2004, 9:41am

The problem with stopping it cold is that it can trigger seizures if you are prone to seizures.

I have stopped it cold before, as I have no history of seizures.

Title: Re: Can you stop Topomax cold turkey?
Post by jillybean on Dec 26^th, 2004, 1:38pm

Thanks All!

Jill

Title: Re: Can you stop Topomax cold turkey?
Post by JoeS on Dec 26^th, 2004, 8:00pm

Cold Turkey? That's what I'm eating right now! :)

Seriously, though, Topamax is also used to treat epilepsy as well. The warning about suddenly stopping Topamax applies to those taking it for epilepsy, because increased epileptic activity can result unless use of Topamax is withdrawn gradually. (Disclaimer: I'm not a doctor or other medical professional)

More details here (maybe too much detail....): http://www.orthomcneil.com/products/pi/pdfs/tpamax.pdf

Joe

Title: Re: Can you stop Topomax cold turkey?
Post by consieone on Dec 27^th, 2004, 10:03pm

My husband has tried the Topomax and you definately have to wean yourself off of it, per the neuro's instructions. I feel for you as I sit by and watch his pain. He had really bad reactions to the Topomax including dizziness, inablility to focus, crying for no reason, etc. Good luck! If you ever need to talk

Consieone

Title: Re: Can you stop Topomax cold turkey?
Post by Karla on Dec 28^th, 2004, 5:11pm

You must slowly wean yourself off of the stuff or it can cause seizures and other problems.

Title: Re: Can you stop Topomax cold turkey?
Post by jillybean on Dec 28^th, 2004, 11:43pm

Well, talked to the Neuro. He said cut dosage in 1/2 for 3 days, then stop.

He has been on the Topomax for about 3 wks or so.

Will keep you posted. Thanks for the support. :)

Jill

Title: Re: Can you stop Topomax cold turkey?
Post by jillybean on Dec 29^th, 2004, 12:25am

[quote author=JoeS link=board=meds;num=1104037381;start=0#5 date=12/26/04 at 20:00:12]Cold Turkey? That's what I'm eating right now! :)

[smiley=laugh.gif]

More details here (maybe too much detail....): http://www.orthomcneil.com/products/pi/pdfs/tpamax.pd

TMI- and I went to college. [smiley=eek.gif] I swear!

Jill

PS- still learning the quote thing. (Did I pass college????)