Topiramate information sheet

Topiramate must be prescribed by a doctor. You should never give your child anyone else's medications.

Your doctor will check and make sure that other drugs your child is taking are compatible with Topiramate. This is also important if you are giving your child herbal or complementary medicines. The doctor can check to make sure they are compatible

There are interactions between Topamax and other anticonvulsants (for example Valproate).

Monitoring and Levels

• Occasional blood tests may be required, particularly if your child seems unwell or has kidney pain. 
• A urine test maybe required to check for blood or calcium.
• An ultrasound is done if a kidney stone is suspected. 

• If your child vomits within 30 minutes after having their dose, then repeat the dose.
• If it is longer than 30 minutes since having the dose you do not need to repeat the dose, but if vomiting or diarrhoea continues, seek medical help.

• If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered.
• The next due dose should be taken at the usual time.
• However, if the missed dose is remembered in close proximity to the next due dose (i.e. within 3 to 4 hours of the next dose), please seek medical advice.
• If unsure about what to do, the treating GP, epilepsy nurse, paediatrician or neurologist should be contacted.

Always read the label. Follow the instructions of your doctor and pharmacist. 

See more about how to store different types of Topiramate 

Below are some of the possible side effects your child may experience.

• Loss of appetite/loss of weight (may be dose dependant)
• Kidney stones - all patients must drink plenty of fluids and report any back pain or pain during urination to their doctor
• Inability to tolerate heat due to reduced sweating. Take precautions to prevent over heating especially in children under 2 years of age
• Sedation, usually with higher doses
• Irritability, crankiness, depression, or mood changes can occur
• Changes in learning ability
• Decreased attention
• Problems with word finding and speech
• In young babies, a higher level of acid in the blood may occur. Your doctor will monitor with blood tests and treat as needed
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision

Rare Side Effects

• Visual field deficit has been described occasionally
• Numbness and hand tingling
• Any eye pain needs to be evaluated urgently as on rare occasions glaucoma can occur.

Pregnancy and contraception

• Topiramate may influence the oral contraceptive pill.
• On rare occasions Topiramate may cause malformations of a baby in the uterus.
• If a pregnancy is planned, a discussion with your neurologist is recommended.

For further information, refer to the reproductive health page.

The information provided in this resource is limited and does not replace the need for a medical consultation. It is very important you speak to your doctor about all aspects of your medication including side effects when medication is first prescribed. Report any concerns to your doctor promptly.