Topiramate

Topiramate is widely used as an anti-convulsant drug. In the last few years randomised trials in headache disorders have established its role in migraine treatment. More recently its efficacy in chronic daily has been shown.

Here's the list of potential uses related to severe headache disorders:

1. Migraine
2. Migraine aura
3. Chronic Migraine
4. Medication Overuse Headache
5. Cluster Headache
6. Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (Topamax has carbonic anhydrase properties)
7. Hypnic Headache

I'll add more when I read about them.

Side-effects

The main side-effects I encounter are:
1. Numbness or tingling of the hands, feet, lips or mouth Abnormal taste sensation
2. Loss of appetite
3. Weight Loss
About 10% of people will lose about 10% of their body weight after several months of use of the drug.

Pregnancy is not advised when on topamax, and at higher doses, the drug can interfere with metabolism of the oral contraceptive pill. Like any prescription medication you should always discuss these issues with your doctor.

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