Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Topamax as follows:
- Topamax is poorly metabolized by the body and is mainly excreted by the kidneys. Individuals with renal disease cannot excrete Topamax normally, which allows the medication to stay in blood circulation for longer time, resulting in toxicity and consequent side-effects. Also, individuals with compromised renal function can present with elevated acid ions in the blood and intake of Topamax by these individuals can further contribute to the metabolic acidosis state, thus complicating the clinical condition. So, periodical monitoring of renal functions could be ordered while taking Topamax and observing compliance with the labs ordered can help prevent symptoms of acidosis and toxicity from developing.
- Do not take Topamax with alcohol or opioid pain medications, such as, hydrocodone and codeine, as these products can add to the confusion caused by Topamax. A number of OTC cough medications, antihistamines, and antianxiety medications, can potentiate the confusion caused by Topamax and so, must be avoided taking along with Topamax.
