Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Topamax as follows:
Cardiovascular side-effects
- Topamax use carries the risk of causing hypotension with compensatory increased heart rate. Hypotension, secondary to Topamax intake, can lead to episodes of confusion and dizziness, thus increasing the risk for fall and accidents.
- Topamax use also carries the risk of causing and/or aggravating cardiac arrhythmias, leading to severe debility and death. Individuals can present with episodes of chest pain, rapid heart rate, palpitations, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
Teratogenic side-effects
- Topamax use in expectant mothers could harm the unborn baby and result in birth defects. So, Topamax use should be avoided during pregnancy and in women planning to get pregnant. Women in the child bearing age group, taking Topamax on a regular basis, must employ effective contraceptive measures in order to avoid getting pregnant.
