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        New Message Board Archives >> Medications, Treatments, Therapies 2005 >> tapering off topamax safely
        
(Message started by: kimmeesue on May 16^th, 2005, 1:58pm)

Title: tapering off topamax safely
Post by kimmeesue on May 16^th, 2005, 1:58pm

Even though I have been one of the "lucky" ones as far as side effects go and topamax seems to have reduced the frequency of attacks the more I read The more I worry about long term effects and I do notice some memory deficits now. So...my question is...how do I safely taper off? I am currently taking 150 mg twice daily. Should I expect anything nasty and how long will this last? I expect more frequent visits from the beast and I will deal with this...I'm talking "other unexpected stuff".
The reason I am addressing this here and not with my neuro is I know what his reaction is going to be as Topamax was a kind of last hope after the failure of triptans, O2, etc and inability to use Verap. I am not morally against alternative treatment but live in a rather backward rural area...the legal ramifications would be enormous. A guy spent 18 years in prison for growing a few pot plants in amongst his farm crops.
Anyway, anyone with experience , please share.
Thanks, a bunch.
Kim

Title: Re: tapering off topamax safely
Post by Fig on May 27^th, 2005, 11:08pm

Hi. I myself am on Topomax (for a different reason, but found it also helped my migraines--bonus!!) and think it's an excellent drug. I've been on it a long time, never had any ill affects. If you wish to go off it, you really need to be careful. The process of withdrawing from these drugs must be done right or you can harm yourself. The dosage has to be lowered gradually over a period of time, This is best managed by a doctor, who knows how much you should take and when and how to decrease the dose and when and so on---SAFELY. I think yiur doc will understand, so talk to him.

Title: Re: tapering off topamax safely
Post by Karla on May 28^th, 2005, 1:35pm

You need to withdrawl at like 25mg every week or two until you are off the medicine. Real slow!!

Title: Re: tapering off topamax safely
Post by kimmeesue on May 31^st, 2005, 12:43am

Thanks, Fig and Karla,

Have been completely off the topamax4 days now and so far so good.
The best part is being mentally clearer, not constantly "searching" for words. Some difficulty sleeping (not sure if that's related as I am a long time insomniac ) Have had not so much as a shadow in days but today have felt a few twinges behind the eye. I know topamax has a fairly long half-life so am waiting for a visit.
Tried to find Kudzu locally with no success. Am looking on-line now. WIll talk to my neuro next visit in July.
In the meantime just gotta figure a way to stay away from Frankenstein's lab (ER) if "he" shows up.
Again, thanks for the help.
Kim