How Long Does Topamax Stay in the Blood Stream?

Topamax (Topiramate) is an anti-seizure medication that is prescribed for patients suffering from epilepsy. It is also approved for the treatment of migraines. It is also prescribed off-label as a mood stabilizer for the treatment of bipolar disorder. It is also used in children as a treatment for the treatment of the seizure disorder Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. It is currently being tested in trials for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder.

History

In 1999, Topamax was the first second-generation anti-seizure medication to be approved by the FDA for the treatment of partial onset seizures in children as young as two years old. In 2001, it was linked to 23 cases of secondary angle closure glaucoma and severe myopia. In 2004, the FDA approved Topamax for the treatment of migraine. In 2007 Topamax showed promise in the treatment of alcoholism 1.

Effects of Topamax

Topamax is absorbed quickly by the body soon after you swallow it. The drug works by interacting with the neurotransmitter GABA which controls communication between brain cells. Topamax helps GABA to reduce certain types of excitory neural impulses to prevent seizures and stabilize mood. Around 70 percent of the drug is excreted in the urine.

Topamax Half-life

The half-life of a medication denotes how long it takes for the concentration of the drug in your plasma to reach half of its original concentration, in other words, how long it takes for half of the original dose to be eliminated from your blood stream. The half-life of Topamax is 19-23 hours.

Side Effects

You should seek medical advice immediately if you are using Topamax and experience any of the following side effects: depression, suicidal thoughts, hyperactivity, irritability, hostility or anxiety. Other possible side-effects include impaired vision. You should also avoid drinking alcohol as this can in crease the risk of seizures.

Contraindications

People who have a known allergic reaction to Topiramate should not take Topamax. Patients who suffer from kidney stones or are on a ketosis diet (a diet that is low in carbohydrates and high in proteins) should not take Topamax because it may increase the risk of kidney stones. Topamax should also not be taken by anyone taking high doses of vitamin C or calcium supplements.