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Topamax
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acozy posted:
Hi everyone!

This is my first time posting a tip, but as a "sufferer" (better word anyone?) of chronic migraines, I thought I would share my prescription success with you guys.

I have taken abortive migraine drugs (think Maxalt, Imitrex, etc) for many years, but when my migraines moved from a couple of times a month, to every other week, to every day, I had to find a better solution. My neurologist decided to try me on Topamax, an anticonvulsant, the type of medication typically prescribed for seizure disorders and now migraine prevention. This isn't a medicine that I would say someone should take if they only get a migraine every once in awhile, but if you're like me and get them every day or multiple times a week, it may really help you.

I don't really believe in endorsing medications as they don't work for everyone, so obviously don't take my word for it. Also, your doctor is the expert, not the Internet so defer to their recommendations. The side effects that I have experienced so far is a bit of fogginess with my short term memory and some numbness underneath my feet. Obviously, the medicine isn't perfect, but I have only had 2 classifiable migraines in the last 6 months, and I can't even remember how few before then.

Hope my experience has helped you!
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2 Replies |Report This| Share this:TopamaxHi everyone!<br /><br />This is my first time posting a tip, but as a "sufferer" (better word anyone?) of chronic migraines, I thought I would share my prescription success with you guys.<br /><br />I have taken abortive migraine drugs (think Maxalt, Imitrex, etc) for many years, but when my migraines moved from a couple of times a month, to every other week, to every day, I had to find a better solution. My neurologist decided to try me on Topamax, an anticonvulsant, the type of medication typically prescribed for seizure disorders and now migraine prevention. This isn't a medicine that I would say someone should take if they only get a migraine every once in awhile, but if you're like me and get them every day or multiple times a week, it may really help you. <br /><br />I don't really believe in endorsing medications as they don't work for everyone, so obviously don't take my word for it. Also, your doctor is the expert, not the Internet so defer to their recommendations. The side effects that I have experienced so far is a bit of fogginess with my short term memory and some numbness underneath my feet. Obviously, the medicine isn't perfect, but I have only had 2 classifiable migraines in the last 6 months, and I can't even remember how few before then. <br /><br />Hope my experience has helped you!
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allie_bf responded:
I agree that Topamax works pretty well. The problem, however, is the side effects. The peripheral numbness extended to my hands and continued to worsen to the point where working and driving became exceptionally difficult. The somewhat metallic aftertaste became annoying, too. Having talked to several friends (admittedly a totally non-scientific and anecdotal approach) who also took this drug, of the ones who stopped taking it, all of them quit because of problems with tolerance, not effectiveness.
Report This| Share this:TopamaxI agree that Topamax works pretty well. The problem, however, is the side effects. The peripheral numbness extended to my hands and continued to worsen to the point where working and driving became exceptionally difficult. The somewhat metallic aftertaste became annoying, too. Having talked to several friends (admittedly a totally non-scientific and anecdotal approach) who also took this drug, of the ones who stopped taking it, all of them quit because of problems with tolerance, not effectiveness.
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An_205002 responded:
I've had similar success with Topamax also. I went from migraines that totally ruled my life , to hardly any. It took finding the right dose and at first Topamax made me tired. But it has been totally worth it and I'm glad I stuck out the initial side effects and found the right dose that works. I have Treximet on hand if I need it but I haven't had to take it.
Report This| Share this:TopamaxI've had similar success with Topamax also. I went from migraines that totally ruled my life , to hardly any. It took finding the right dose and at first Topamax made me tired. But it has been totally worth it and I'm glad I stuck out the initial side effects and found the right dose that works. I have Treximet on hand if I need it but I haven't had to take it.
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