Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Topamax as follows:
- Topamax, by increasing loss of bicarbonate ions from the body, can result in excess of acid ions in the body, which consequently can lead to a dangerous acidotic condition called metabolic acidosis. Individuals can present with rapid heart rate and fast breathing patterns, to compensate for the acidosis. Patients can also present with episodes of confusion and extreme tiredness. Upon presentation with any of such findings, report them to your physician and other health care personnel, for any change in plan of care to be considered.
- A number of medications, such as, oral antidiabetics (metformin) and diuretics (acetazolamide), either by increasing the acid or by decreasing the base in the body, can also result in metabolic acidosis. Taken concurrently, the effect of these medications causing metabolic acidosis can be complemented by Topamax, thus increasing this risk steeply. If you are being newly started on Topamax, discuss with your physician regarding all other medications you are currently taking and their safety with Topamax. Also, if you have been taking Topamax for long, discuss with your physician regarding your history of Topamax intake, when you are being started on any new medication.
