Psycho-Babble Medication Thread 5053

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Re: topomax » Bonnie Sue

Posted by archer on October 16, 2000, at 21:44:36

In reply to Re: topomax » archer, posted by Bonnie Sue on October 13, 2000, at 17:22:54

> hi bonnie-sue, im still new to topomax, but what i've read about it the slower the better. im not a dr and im sure he took your initial symptoms and their severity into consideration before subscribing this med? i would wonder was this a psychiatrist or a primary care pysician? keep trck of your symptoms as you up the dose and dont be afraid to keep in touch with your dr. i was put on topomax along with serzone and experienced a slew of sie-effects. tracked them all not sure which med was responsible for them, and thought they would go away. they didnt and i suffered 5 wks until i followed up with my dr. he took me right off the serzone. within 3 days i felt 90% better and will soon start effexor xr or xl not sure which one. i had bad leg pains after i weaned off serzone. just be aware of you symptoms, write everything down. goo-luk. topomax is helping with my appetite. talk to ya soon. archer keep in touch.

 

Re: topomax » archer

Posted by Bonnie Sue on October 18, 2000, at 10:49:19

In reply to Re: topomax » Bonnie Sue, posted by archer on October 16, 2000, at 21:44:36

>Thanks Ellen.....seems symptoms are starting to subside all but leg pains and cramps! I do like however the way Drs seem to say that you may be a "little" uncomfortable at 1st ! Hah! Thats a understatement. My Doc is a PHD In Pchchiatree(hee hee). Oh and he is also planning on adding effexor to my regiment to stabilize my highs and lows from PTSD.... he states this has been highly effective with patients that have not responded to the ssri and the other thousand of drugs out there they have tried on them (like me). Yes I am documenting problems and good effects of med...I really believe however at this point if the weakness and pain does not come back, so far so good....also very pleased with appetite change...(very normal) I used to eat very little but wrong times of day and the wrong foods! Now I am actually hungry in AM and around 3ish than fine rest of day but not overly hungry and not hungry for ^ sugars or fats....except have this strange craving for cheeses and only thing I want to drink is fruit punches ....water and teas! >
Only pain problem left is numbnes and tingling in feet...hands at times...though the feet turn into leg cramps late at night...starts with the heel falling asleep and then feels like one of those old toy planes you wind up with a rubber band
working its way to my knee in a cramp that no one would believe the pain! So Im feeling fairly confident that I will get through this....mind is clear....not all stoned feeling....lost 4 lbs already (while eating) "2 wks" and my eyes dont look all wild or in foo foo land which on most meds its one way or the other.......I hope all goes well for you too....thanks for responding...keep in touch if you ever want to respond by email Im not sure how they do that here without the whole world but let me know since we both started at the same time on the same meds! HMMMMM...thought for the day!!!!.PHD drugs of choice???????!!!!!! just a joke.... Bonnie Sue


hi bonnie-sue, im still new to topomax, but what i've read about it the slower the better. im not a dr and im sure he took your initial symptoms and their severity into consideration before subscribing this med? i would wonder was this a psychiatrist or a primary care pysician? keep trck of your symptoms as you up the dose and dont be afraid to keep in touch with your dr. i was put on topomax along with serzone and experienced a slew of sie-effects. tracked them all not sure which med was responsible for them, and thought they would go away. they didnt and i suffered 5 wks until i followed up with my dr. he took me right off the serzone. within 3 days i felt 90% better and will soon start effexor xr or xl not sure which one. i had bad leg pains after i weaned off serzone. just be aware of you symptoms, write everything down. goo-luk. topomax is helping with my appetite. talk to ya soon. archer keep in touch.

 

Re: topomax

Posted by RBowling on October 20, 2000, at 1:20:58

In reply to Re: topomax » Bonnie Sue, posted by archer on October 16, 2000, at 21:44:36

I take 600mg Topamax/hs. I take 595mg Potassium/day, plus 1100mg Calcium/day for leg cramps. This seems to keep them at bay for me. I continue to drink at least 2-3 liters of water per day as recommended by the drug company to prevent kidney stone formation.
(I can go into detail as to why we get the leg cramps if everyone wants to know why)....

-- Rob

 

Re: topomax » Bonnie Sue

Posted by archer on October 20, 2000, at 6:12:48

In reply to Re: topomax » archer, posted by Bonnie Sue on October 18, 2000, at 10:49:19

hey bonnie, sounds like your doing quite well since last we talked.i to will be starting effexor actually tomorrow. im a little concernced because i heard it causes drowsiness (since weaning off serzone and being unmedicated for probably the first time in many years im enjoying my new found energy.) and kills sex drive (also something im enjoying again). i do have to admit though it has been quite a rollercoaster ride all week . all i can think of is the millions of people at amusement parks all over the world buying tix for these things and all i have to do is wake up every day, take a shower, get dressed strap myself into the seat and im off. in fact i tell the girls i work with to make sure they pull the seat bar down tight over their heads and be sure to keep arms and legs in while ride is in progress, and to be sure not to exit until ride comes to a complete stop! we laugh all day at my ups and downs. thank god for humor! sounds like you have a pretty good sense of humor yourself. i think most of us that suffer from personalitiy disorders do. not to say we dont suffer. dont get me wrong. we tend to do our suffering alone or diminish our pain around others. at least i do. i must remember i can only speak for myself.something im learning. well gotta get in shower. running late for work. something else im working on ha- ha! hang in there. leg cramps anytime are a bitch, let alone at nite. what about quinine? they used it years ago to quiet leg cramps. ask ur doc. talk to ya later. archer ps- gotta change this font man its killing me. needs some color too. see ya. have a good one!

 

Re: topomax

Posted by Bonnie Sue on October 20, 2000, at 12:43:04

In reply to Re: topomax » Bonnie Sue, posted by archer on October 20, 2000, at 6:12:48

>WEll hi....yes I am doing better but hope to be going back to work such as your self someday again soon....BIG GOAL you know ! Owned my own busness for many years and went kuputz same time I went kuputz very close there after (final scene) very dramatic!.....so as you say buckle your seat belt no roller coaster needed here....yes doing better...but leg cramps are a bit..! However now I know why I am craving cheese...Rob...ahead of us is on ^ calcium and potassium that explains it! So i will just increase my viactin and Pottasium intake and see if that helps ..oh and by the way...our goverment has taken ouinine off the shelf without a prescription (can you believe that?) my dad used to drink it out of little soda bottles!
Well counseling ahead of me today ....to see if I am doing ok!!! So talk to you soon ....good luck 1st wek is hard ...let me know if i can talk you through any thing....P >S > Sex drive has not diminished as of yet but its only been a couple weeks....Bonnie Sue


hey bonnie, sounds like your doing quite well since last we talked.i to will be starting effexor actually tomorrow. im a little concernced because i heard it causes drowsiness (since weaning off serzone and being unmedicated for probably the first time in many years im enjoying my new found energy.) and kills sex drive (also something im enjoying again). i do have to admit though it has been quite a rollercoaster ride all week . all i can think of is the millions of people at amusement parks all over the world buying tix for these things and all i have to do is wake up every day, take a shower, get dressed strap myself into the seat and im off. in fact i tell the girls i work with to make sure they pull the seat bar down tight over their heads and be sure to keep arms and legs in while ride is in progress, and to be sure not to exit until ride comes to a complete stop! we laugh all day at my ups and downs. thank god for humor! sounds like you have a pretty good sense of humor yourself. i think most of us that suffer from personalitiy disorders do. not to say we dont suffer. dont get me wrong. we tend to do our suffering alone or diminish our pain around others. at least i do. i must remember i can only speak for myself.something im learning. well gotta get in shower. running late for work. something else im working on ha- ha! hang in there. leg cramps anytime are a bitch, let alone at nite. what about quinine? they used it years ago to quiet leg cramps. ask ur doc. talk to ya later. archer ps- gotta change this font man its killing me. needs some color too. see ya. have a good one!

 

Re: topamax » amyw

Posted by Bonnie Sue on October 20, 2000, at 12:53:01

In reply to Re: topamax, posted by amyw on October 15, 2000, at 22:01:49

> Well I hope this helps you ....how old is your son? My daughter had a trauma that caused her to protection eat at the age of 17 to 24 she went from 120 lbs at 5ft 9 to 277 lbs at 5ft 9 now that she is 27 y/o and has been on "KLONIPIN" for 1 year she has reestablished her original wt. basically and is healthy again at about 150 lbs ....I was very relieved ....Im sure you know the feeling when all this starts ...I did not intend to offend you...sometimes I wonder about DOCS as many of us have been on the wrong meds or have been put on as test studies if you know what I mean so I really do hope this works for your son.....my daughter had a terrible time and I wish that on no minor or young adult child or thier parent ...it is nothing to make light of... its a terrible problem to deal and/or live with! Blessed BE! Bonnie Sue

Hos problem is not just binge eating. The eating comes with a severe agitaion during which he feels a racing inside and literally becomes frantic. It is being viewed as a bipolr thing.

 

Re: topomax

Posted by Bonnie Sue on October 20, 2000, at 13:00:41

In reply to Re: topomax, posted by RBowling on October 20, 2000, at 1:20:58

>Thanks for your information....my body tends to crave and I was wondering why I was craving cheese and tea with milk....see....well Ill increase my viactin for calcium and ^ my pottasium for these cramps because this is the most horrendus pain I have ever had as far as cramps /...... I was a swimmer on team for 11 years and never once experienced cramps like this!
Thank you again...I also heard from a very good friend of mine who does naturo pathy that to try some celery extract at night, if you get that sharp glass feeling like I do.... thank you again Bonnie Sue

I take 600mg Topamax/hs. I take 595mg Potassium/day, plus 1100mg Calcium/day for leg cramps. This seems to keep them at bay for me. I continue to drink at least 2-3 liters of water per day as recommended by the drug company to prevent kidney stone formation.
> (I can go into detail as to why we get the leg cramps if everyone wants to know why)....
>
> -- Rob

 

Re: topomax

Posted by Maribeth on October 21, 2000, at 15:50:41

In reply to Re: topomax, posted by nancy on April 21, 1999, at 12:00:06

> Actually, pills do change feeling, thoughts, desires...and some of them do disrupt one's physiology significantly causing weight gain or loss.
>
> When I took Topomax, I was replused by just the thought of food. Also, I could only tolerate water to quench my thirst...well, ok, I could drink coffee. But any other type of liquid had a disgusting flavor.
>
> I have been taking Seroquel instead of Topomax, recently, to satisfy my pdoc curiosity about my potential response to these completely different mood stabilizers.
>
> I'm going to get back on the Topomax and DROP the Seroquel. Topomax is an AED, whereas, Seroquel is an atypical antipsychotic...I'm getting dyskinesia in my hands. In my experience, Topomax is the mood stabilizer of CHOICE (granted, if one has a choice) for any severe manic depressive w/, rapid cycling, mixed states, and/or intolerance to other AEDs.
>
>
> > >My Dr. has prescribed topomax for me to eventually replace the lithium. I've taken it about a week and will up the dose to what will be my normal level tomorrow. So far I haven't really noticed my appetite changing at all. But I'm still taking the lithium too. I know that losing weight really comes down to what the individual wants and is willing to do to attain a goal. I feel you can't put too much stock into a pill to solve all your problems. Don't get me wrong...I need those durn things to help me through my day, but ultimately I control my destiny. (It is kinda nice to think that some prescription drugs have desirable "side-effects".)
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > Topomax is suppose to do the opposite from depakote in terms of instead of weight gain it has weight loss side effects. Has anyone had any experience with these? Ellen

Hi --I have been reading all of this with with GREAT interest as I began Topamax last evening, 50 mgm
and will eventually build up to??? He didn't tell me. I was told it was to facilitate weight loss and MIGHT
HAVE A GOOD EFFECT ON MY "MOOD SWINGS". I Have never
been diagnosed bipolar. I have been on Effexor XR 300/day and Seroquel 300/day
Believe me after taking Xyprexa and Prozac these two are GREAT!
The only combo that ever "worked" for me was Ritalin SR 40mgm x2 daily and Proxac.
40 mgm 1x daily. But then my husband discovered that Ritalin is
a controlled substance (this after four years of success) and refused to "subsidize
my habit" --I am a recovered alcholic --20 years). Whatever, that's his problem.
S generally feeling is that Topamax works -- at what doses? And was my doc trying to
"put one over on me"? Maribeth

 

Re: topamax » kady

Posted by Carolyn S. K. on October 25, 2000, at 20:27:28

In reply to Re: topamax, posted by kady on June 2, 2000, at 13:24:38

I hear this Topomax works for migraines because migraines are similar to seizures in the way they affect the brain. I'm not sure how that is, but that is what I've heard. I take it for Bipolar Disorder. I started at 25 mgs. at bedtime for one week. Then 50 mg at bedtime for one week. Then 50 mg. at bedtime with 25 mg. in the a.m. for one week. I am about to start 50 mg. in the a.m. and p.m. for for one week. I have not noticed a single negative side effect.

Hope that information helps.

> From prior postings here I found the majority of people lose weight while on Topomax. What I have just read in this long thread though makes me ponder. I am seeing a neurologist after suffering from migraines for the past 7 years. The GYN nor the Pri Care seemed to be able to take care of the problem. I am now in the stages of trying out different migraine meds to see if any work or react badly. Last follow up the neuro mentioned this Topomax. He is prescribing it to some with migraines. Why would this be? Also, I am reading much to do with bi polar, depression, and this Dr advised me this was a new drug to treat seizures. I know it all happens in the brain and sometimes chemically, I am just trying to put together why this is prescribed for so many different things. Anyone have any knowledge on this? By the way, the weight loss thing, this Dr states his most hopeless migraine case is a woman who just recently underwent some gastro surgery to help her lose weight. Since on Topomax, she is losing weight for the first time in her life! And the migraines are treated. I too am curious as to what Nancy's reply will be on why her Dr will not prescibe it anymore. I am trying to find out as much as I can on this drug before taking it. My husband is on Dilantin after surgery for an AVM and I noticed much mental slowdown with him. He has been on it for 3 years now and is just starting to think quicker and more clearly. I wonder if all seizure realated meds have this "dulling" effect? Thanks

 

Re: topamax

Posted by krissi on May 25, 2001, at 10:10:25

In reply to Re: topamax » kady, posted by Carolyn S. K. on October 25, 2000, at 20:27:28

I am a 32-yr old bi-polar female. I have been on numerous different medications with horrible side effects that frankly, haven't done that much to help my terrible ups and downs until now. I started taking Topamax a little over 2 months ago and am thrilled at how it has stabilized my moods and controlled my manic episodes. I also take 300 mg of Effexor XR every AM and 100 mg of Trazodone every PM (both anti-depressants). Before the Topamax I was taking Zyprexa which I hated because it made me so groggy all the time and I was only taking 15 mg, not to mention that it gave me a big appetite. So, having said all that. I have lost 12 lbs since I've been on Topamax so I'm back to my normal weight now which makes me feel alot better about myself. I just can't stand to eat hardly anything. Nothing sounds good. I used to drink coffee - not anymore - yuck. I'm repulsed by eggs and meat. About all I eat is a few saltines, cottage cheese and some fruit. I feel nauseous all the time. I'm also always tired - just have no energy and that's not like me at all. I'm really glad the Topamax is helping me, but I wish I'd start to feel better. My Dr started me on 100 mg/day and then put me on 200 mg/day 3 wks ago. I do get tingling in my hands and feet too. I guess there's just no "miracle cure" - maybe someday. In the meantime, we have to be thankful for what we have and keep a sense of humor. Good luck to everyone out there. Be strong and let me know how you're doing!

 

Re: topamax

Posted by Mitch on May 25, 2001, at 10:37:34

In reply to Re: topamax, posted by krissi on May 25, 2001, at 10:10:25

I have tried TOP before and it worked really well too, but I got a rash and had to stop it. You said that you are pretty nauseous-maybe you could ask your pdoc about backing off the Effexor a *little* notch-it can cause a lot of nausea for some people. One other thing-Effexor can be destabilizing for some people-I am bipolar and I can't take it because of hypomania.

> I am a 32-yr old bi-polar female. I have been on numerous different medications with horrible side effects that frankly, haven't done that much to help my terrible ups and downs until now. I started taking Topamax a little over 2 months ago and am thrilled at how it has stabilized my moods and controlled my manic episodes. I also take 300 mg of Effexor XR every AM and 100 mg of Trazodone every PM (both anti-depressants). Before the Topamax I was taking Zyprexa which I hated because it made me so groggy all the time and I was only taking 15 mg, not to mention that it gave me a big appetite. So, having said all that. I have lost 12 lbs since I've been on Topamax so I'm back to my normal weight now which makes me feel alot better about myself. I just can't stand to eat hardly anything. Nothing sounds good. I used to drink coffee - not anymore - yuck. I'm repulsed by eggs and meat. About all I eat is a few saltines, cottage cheese and some fruit. I feel nauseous all the time. I'm also always tired - just have no energy and that's not like me at all. I'm really glad the Topamax is helping me, but I wish I'd start to feel better. My Dr started me on 100 mg/day and then put me on 200 mg/day 3 wks ago. I do get tingling in my hands and feet too. I guess there's just no "miracle cure" - maybe someday. In the meantime, we have to be thankful for what we have and keep a sense of humor. Good luck to everyone out there. Be strong and let me know how you're doing!

 

Re: topamax

Posted by maribeth on May 29, 2001, at 10:30:35

In reply to Re: topamax, posted by krissi on May 25, 2001, at 10:10:25

> I am a 32-yr old bi-polar female. I have been on numerous different medications with horrible side effects that frankly, haven't done that much to help my terrible ups and downs until now. I started taking Topamax a little over 2 months ago and am thrilled at how it has stabilized my moods and controlled my manic episodes. I also take 300 mg of Effexor XR every AM and 100 mg of Trazodone every PM (both anti-depressants). Before the Topamax I was taking Zyprexa which I hated because it made me so groggy all the time and I was only taking 15 mg, not to mention that it gave me a big appetite. So, having said all that. I have lost 12 lbs since I've been on Topamax so I'm back to my normal weight now which makes me feel alot better about myself. I just can't stand to eat hardly anything. Nothing sounds good. I used to drink coffee - not anymore - yuck. I'm repulsed by eggs and meat. About all I eat is a few saltines, cottage cheese and some fruit. I feel nauseous all the time. I'm also always tired - just have no energy and that's not like me at all. I'm really glad the Topamax is helping me, but I wish I'd start to feel better. My Dr started me on 100 mg/day and then put me on 200 mg/day 3 wks ago. I do get tingling in my hands and feet too. I guess there's just no "miracle cure" - maybe someday. In the meantime, we have to be thankful for what we have and keep a sense of humor. Good luck to everyone out there. Be strong and let me know how you're doing!

Carolyn --
Amen ! I was started on Topamax about a year ago, supposedly for weight loss. Well, I haven't lost any weight, but I have stopped gaining. However, for the first time in many years, I am not a moody, either crying-and-suicidal or screaming-and-bitching woman! Was this an accident, or just a plot on God's part?! I don't know, but whatever, it worked and I am grateful. Hang in there. Oh yeah, I topped out at 500mgm a day. I too take 300mgm of Effexor XR a day (also, 100mgm of Seroquel). Maribeth

 

Re: topamax

Posted by Carolyn S. K. on May 29, 2001, at 22:31:35

In reply to Re: topamax, posted by maribeth on May 29, 2001, at 10:30:35

> > I am a 32-yr old bi-polar female. I have been on numerous different medications with horrible side effects that frankly, haven't done that much to help my terrible ups and downs until now. I started taking Topamax a little over 2 months ago and am thrilled at how it has stabilized my moods and controlled my manic episodes. I also take 300 mg of Effexor XR every AM and 100 mg of Trazodone every PM (both anti-depressants). Before the Topamax I was taking Zyprexa which I hated because it made me so groggy all the time and I was only taking 15 mg, not to mention that it gave me a big appetite. So, having said all that. I have lost 12 lbs since I've been on Topamax so I'm back to my normal weight now which makes me feel alot better about myself. I just can't stand to eat hardly anything. Nothing sounds good. I used to drink coffee - not anymore - yuck. I'm repulsed by eggs and meat. About all I eat is a few saltines, cottage cheese and some fruit. I feel nauseous all the time. I'm also always tired - just have no energy and that's not like me at all. I'm really glad the Topamax is helping me, but I wish I'd start to feel better. My Dr started me on 100 mg/day and then put me on 200 mg/day 3 wks ago. I do get tingling in my hands and feet too. I guess there's just no "miracle cure" - maybe someday. In the meantime, we have to be thankful for what we have and keep a sense of humor. Good luck to everyone out there. Be strong and let me know how you're doing!
>
> Carolyn --
> Amen ! I was started on Topamax about a year ago, supposedly for weight loss. Well, I haven't lost any weight, but I have stopped gaining. However, for the first time in many years, I am not a moody, either crying-and-suicidal or screaming-and-bitching woman! Was this an accident, or just a plot on God's part?! I don't know, but whatever, it worked and I am grateful. Hang in there. Oh yeah, I topped out at 500mgm a day. I too take 300mgm of Effexor XR a day (also, 100mgm of Seroquel). Maribeth

Maribeth:
I've leveled off at 400 mg a day. My moods have really evened out and I'm really happy about that (so is my husband). No more superwoman fighting to get out of the phone booth all of the time. However, I noticed that it only takes a couple of missed doses for Superwoman to start pounding on the door to get out. I dropped a lot of weight about 30 pounds but nothing after that. I guess I got used to the meds. But, I haven't gained it back and that's just fine with me.!!!! Carolyn

 

Topamax and Obesity

Posted by Made-up Name on June 1, 2001, at 12:58:13

In reply to Re: topamax, posted by Carolyn S. K. on May 29, 2001, at 22:31:35

I see this topic is picking up again, as the drug was just mentioned on CBS News for obesity yesterday. I became fat (170 lb.)around age 30 when I first started having bad migraines. Up until then I weighed 115. At menopause, the migraines became worse and I gained an additional 90 lb. This was very sudden--like over 4 months. Although I went on estrogen and that helped the migraines, I couldn't get the weight off until Prozac. I lost 80 lb. on Prozac over a year's time, but had to keep increasing the dose from 1 to 4 caps a day. Finally, it quit working, and I regained all the weight within a few months. I continued to take Prozac for depression for several years, but quit a year ago.

Recently, I lost 70 lb. over 8 months by cutting out all sugar and refined flours. I no longer wanted to binge and thought I had discovered the answer at last. I gave away all my size 22-28 clothes and looked forward to continuing to lose and some day soon wearing the size 8s still hanging in my closet from years ago. Suddenly, it quit working, and I started bingeing again. I am up 20 lb. in 2 months and desperate. The urge to binge hits at about 3 PM and goes on until about 8 PM, when it ends. During that time, I will eat almost non-stop, even things like shortening mixed with sugar if nothing better is available. It's not something I can control--God knows, I've tried.

I also took dexfenfluramine when it was popular and Meridia. Both worked for just a few weeks. My body develops a tolerance for these serotonin-type drugs very quickly. I am interested in reading about anyone else's experiences with binge eating and this or other drugs which might work.

It is terrible to be obese--people blame you for your condition and think it is due to moral weakness. Total strangers will mock you in public places. I have suffered with social anxiety disorder since childhood, and being obese makes it even worse because you KNOW people are judging you. I've taken Serax prior to any social functions that I am forced to attend and it works well, but I mainly just stay home and avoid people.

 

Re: Topamax and Obesity

Posted by SalArmy4me on June 1, 2001, at 20:05:51

In reply to Topamax and Obesity, posted by Made-up Name on June 1, 2001, at 12:58:13

Author
Biton, V. MD et al
Neurology. 52(7):1330-1337, April 22, 1999:
Background and Objective: Topiramate is effective as adjunctive treatment of partial-onset seizures in adults. The efficacy and safety of topiramate as adjunctive therapy for the treatment of primary generalized tonic-clonic (PGTC) seizures were investigated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

Methods: Eighty patients, 3 to 59 years old, who experienced three or more PGTC seizures during an 8-week baseline phase were randomly assigned to treatment with either topiramate (n = 39) or placebo (n = 41). Topiramate was titrated to target doses of approximately 6 mg/kg/day over 8 weeks and maintained for another 12 weeks.

Results: The median percentage reduction from baseline in PGTC seizure rate was 56.7% for topiramate patients and 9.0% for placebo patients (p = 0.019). The proportion of patients with 50% or higher reduction in PGTC seizure rate was 22/39 (56%) and 8/40 (20%) for the topiramate and placebo groups, respectively (p = 0.001). The median percentage reduction in the rate of all generalized seizures was 42.1% for topiramate patients and 0.9% for placebo patients (p = 0.003). The proportions of patients with 50% or higher reductions in generalized seizure rate were 18/39 (46%) and 7/41 (17%) for the topiramate and placebo groups, respectively (p = 0.003). The most common adverse events were somnolence, fatigue, weight _loss_, difficulty with memory, and nervousness. Treatment-limiting adverse events occurred in one patient in the topiramate group (anorexia and weight loss) and one in the placebo group (granulocytopenia and thrombocytopenia).
Conclusion: Topiramate is well-tolerated and effective for the adjunctive treatment of PGTC seizures.

Devlin, Michael J. M.D. et al. Obesity: What Mental Health Professionals Need to Know. American Journal of Psychiatry. 157(6):854-866, June 2000:
"Among mood stabilizers that have come into use more recently, gabapentin appears to be associated with weight gain in a substantial minority of patients, lamotrigine is not typically associated with weight change, and topiramate is associated with mild, dose-related weight loss."

(also}
GORDON, ALAN MD et al. PRICE, LAWRENCE H. MD. Mood Stabilization and Weight Loss With Topiramate. American Journal of Psychiatry. 156(6):968-969, June 1999.

 

Re: Topamax and Obesity » Made-up Name

Posted by Elizabeth on June 2, 2001, at 14:12:13

In reply to Topamax and Obesity, posted by Made-up Name on June 1, 2001, at 12:58:13

Hi. I know what you mean about feeling judged all the time -- although I don't have weight problems, my best friend from grade school and high school was overweight and had a very hard time. It's terrible the way people treat you if you're overweight, especially if you're female.

Have you ever heard of "binge-eating disorder?" It's a relatively new concept (it's in the "research diagnostic criteria sets" appendix to DSM-IV). It's basically what it sounds like (sort of like bulimia nervosa only without compensatory behaviours like vomiting, laxative abuse, etc.). Topamax is being used a lot for this and also for increased appetite as a result of other psychoactive drugs like antipsychotics, some antidepressants, etc.

Another pharmacological approach you might look into is Wellbutrin. It's a close chemical relative of Tenuate, an older appetite-suppressant drug that has fallen out of favour. When I tried Wellbutrin (for depression), I found it was almost impossible to eat. (I wasn't eating much without the Wellbutrin, though.) Wellbutrin doesn't usually help with anxiety and often makes it worse, but social anxiety is a little different.

I know a lot of people who have tried carbohydrate-restricted diets and had amazing results. There is actually a good reason why these diets work; it's not just a fad, and it's not necessarily unhealthy, although I think it requires that you take vitamins and other supplements.

Can you clarify what you mean when you say: "Suddenly, it quit working..." ? Do you mean that you stopped losing weight from your diet, or that you started having carbohydrate cravings again, or something else? Also, are there any triggers that you can identify for your binge episodes?

-elizabeth

 

Re: Topamax and Obesity

Posted by Made-up Name on June 2, 2001, at 17:58:49

In reply to Re: Topamax and Obesity » Made-up Name, posted by Elizabeth on June 2, 2001, at 14:12:13

Elizabeth, I mean that I started having carbohydrate cravings again and being hungry. What sets me off is the time of day--I know that it is 3 PM without even looking at a clock because that is when I get the overwhelming desire to binge. I never binge except between 3 and about 7 or 8 PM. When I was younger, I used to try to vomit and
"undo" the damage, but as I got fatter and fatter, it seemed hopeless and I gave that up.

My old cat developed diabetes and renal failure at the time the diet quit working on my appetite. I am sure the stress of having to deal with the daily shots and knowing he will die within a year is what set me off. I have never tried Wellbutrin. Maybe that would help. Probably Topamax is being hyped for binge eating disorder by Johnson & Johnson when it is really not that effective.

 

Re: Topamax and Obesity

Posted by KarenK on June 3, 2001, at 20:24:16

In reply to Re: Topamax and Obesity, posted by Made-up Name on June 2, 2001, at 17:58:49

I had the same blood sugar problems. I lost a ton of weight by cutting out sugar, carbs, alcohol, and caffeine. Then I got depressed and had a little chocolate. Nuff said. Okay so now I'm on topamax and I finally got to the dose where you get anorexic and I had to cut back because I couldn't eat, I got stomach spasms, and had to take librax to start eating again. It really does work and now I can eat like a normal human being. The weight is coming off and I dropped a size. There's light at the end of the tunnel and it's not a train.

KarenK

 

Re: Topamax and Obesity » Made-up Name

Posted by Elizabeth on June 3, 2001, at 20:47:41

In reply to Re: Topamax and Obesity, posted by Made-up Name on June 2, 2001, at 17:58:49

> Elizabeth, I mean that I started having carbohydrate cravings again and being hungry. What sets me off is the time of day--I know that it is 3 PM without even looking at a clock because that is when I get the overwhelming desire to binge.

OK. I gather that a lot of people have carb cravings at a particular time of day. Had you been eating breakfast?

I'm glad you stopped purging; that does no good (as you discovered) and can be dangerous.

> My old cat developed diabetes and renal failure at the time the diet quit working on my appetite. I am sure the stress of having to deal with the daily shots and knowing he will die within a year is what set me off.

You mean diabetic cats can't get effective treatment? That is sad. I hope that both of you will be able to give each other comfort.

> I have never tried Wellbutrin. Maybe that would help. Probably Topamax is being hyped for binge eating disorder by Johnson & Johnson when it is really not that effective.

Topamax really does cause weight loss for a lot of people. Wellbutrin is another option (although I don't know if either of these would continue working over time, any more than the stimulants do).

One other thing occurred to me. This is just a hunch...have you ever tried melatonin?

best wishes,
-elizabeth

 

To Karen and Elizabeth

Posted by Made-up Name on June 4, 2001, at 8:25:11

In reply to Re: Topamax and Obesity, posted by KarenK on June 3, 2001, at 20:24:16

Karen, I am really interested in hearing about the dose of Topamax which you found to be effective for appetite control. How long did it take you to reach that dose? Did your doctor prescribe it for weight loss or for something else?

Elizabeth, I do eat breakfast and take melatonin. I give insulin to my cat and he is as well-regulated as cats can be as far as the diabetes goes. But he is old and has kidney disease. I have to give him subcutaneous fluids every other day with a big needle, and that is very stressful to both of us because it hurts him.

I was told by a relative who works at a residential psychiatric facility that Topamax didn't work for the fat girls in treatment there. I guess it does work for some people like Karen, though, so I am going to try it.

 

carb cravings, etc. » Made-up Name

Posted by Elizabeth on June 4, 2001, at 15:36:14

In reply to To Karen and Elizabeth, posted by Made-up Name on June 4, 2001, at 8:25:11

> Elizabeth, I do eat breakfast and take melatonin. I give insulin to my cat and he is as well-regulated as cats can be as far as the diabetes goes. But he is old and has kidney disease. I have to give him subcutaneous fluids every other day with a big needle, and that is very stressful to both of us because it hurts him.

Ouch! I know how he feels (I had sub-Q heparin every morning when I was in the hospital a couple months ago). You must love each other very much.

> I was told by a relative who works at a residential psychiatric facility that Topamax didn't work for the fat girls in treatment there. I guess it does work for some people like Karen, though, so I am going to try it.

I think that carb cravings are a distinct phenomenon which most people experience at some point, and some people have a persistent problem with them. My guess would be that you are most likely to be helped by antiobesity treatments which generally help people lose weight gained as a result of carb cravings.

Best wishes to you and your cat.

-elizabeth

 

Re: To Karen and Elizabeth

Posted by KarenK on June 4, 2001, at 20:32:04

In reply to To Karen and Elizabeth, posted by Made-up Name on June 4, 2001, at 8:25:11

> Karen, I am really interested in hearing about the dose of Topamax which you found to be effective for appetite control. How long did it take you to reach that dose? Did your doctor prescribe it for weight loss or for something else?
>

**My doctor prescribed it for anxiety and as a mood stabilizer and to lose weight. I found some benefits at 150mg and 200mg but it really kicked in at 250mg. It took me a lonnnnggg time to get there. I started at 25mg last October.

KarenK

> Elizabeth, I do eat breakfast and take melatonin. I give insulin to my cat and he is as well-regulated as cats can be as far as the diabetes goes. But he is old and has kidney disease. I have to give him subcutaneous fluids every other day with a big needle, and that is very stressful to both of us because it hurts him.
>
> I was told by a relative who works at a residential psychiatric facility that Topamax didn't work for the fat girls in treatment there. I guess it does work for some people like Karen, though, so I am going to try it.

 

Re:Topamax

Posted by Montana50 on June 5, 2001, at 1:24:49

In reply to carb cravings, etc. » Made-up Name, posted by Elizabeth on June 4, 2001, at 15:36:14

> >To all those of you have questions about
Topamax, I would like to share my experiences.
First,I am a middle aged woman who has Bipolar II
mixed with rapid cycling. I am unable to tolerate anti-
depressants and for various reasons am unable to
take the standard mood stablizers or any of the
new atypical antipsychotics. The last 2 years of
of my life have been hell and I've lost those years
of my life. Bad docs and bad meds. Fortunately,
this spring I found a good Doc and hospital. He
started me on Topamax but at 50 mg increments/wk.
I also was on 2mg. 2x/day Klonopin, 1mg x4/day
Ativan, Catapres,Hormone replacement therapy,
thyroid 3(levothyroxine),thyroid 4 (Cytomel),&
Sonata for sleep. He also started me on 10 mg in
a.m. of dexidrine and 7.5 mg at noon. The T-3,T-4,
and dexidrine were to help with the depression but
not to set off the rapid cycling or hypomania.
As I increased my Topamax, on the 3rd day, I would
get my "Topamax drunk", I staggered when I walked,
my voice was slurred, and I was drowsy and slept
for 14 hrs. However, the next day these sx would
be almost all gone. In the meantime, my mood was
stablizing, but it seemed like I couldn't feel any
joy, or satisfaction. Life seemed very dreary.
Finally, my husband insisted that I be rehospiti-
lized. Oh by the way, during this time, I wasn't
eating very much, very little appetite. When I got
to the hospital, I was able to go through the last
2 steps of my Topamax increases. My Doc changed mu
Dexidrine to 15 mg. spansules in the a.m. and 10mg
at noon. This seemed to help. I was able to get
stablized and be discharged in 8 days.
I take 400 mg. Topamax & it really has changed my
life. I know that different drugs work differently
for each individual but all the drugs I take every
day seem worth it because now " I am glad I am
alive and am going to see tomorrow." I urge folks
to ask questions, educate themselves, and if your
health provider is not meeting your needs, check
around to try and find one who will. With know-
ledge I have empowered myself so that I keep
learning how I can manage my life and not let my
disease control it. So when I fall down, I see
it just as a lesson,not a defeat, to learn from
the experience, not to blame or beat up on myself,
and it makes getting back up that much easier.
Something not so easily done.
In short: My Doc told me that if he didn't start
me slowly on Topamax it would be like giving me
instant Alzheimer's,I lost my appetite & 17 lbs
in 9 weeks, I experienced depression but I was
free for the first time in several years of rapid
cycling, dysphoric hypomania and with the change
in meds I am functional and fairly happy and busy
working.
Know this is long, but I hope it helps and gives
hope where hope is needed, and answers some of the
questions about Topamax.
Good Luck
Kathryn1



Elizabeth, I do eat breakfast and take melatonin. I give insulin to my cat and he is as well-regulated as cats can be as far as the diabetes goes. But he is old and has kidney disease. I have to give him subcutaneous fluids every other day with a big needle, and that is very stressful to both of us because it hurts him.
>
> Ouch! I know how he feels (I had sub-Q heparin every morning when I was in the hospital a couple months ago). You must love each other very much.
>
> > I was told by a relative who works at a residential psychiatric facility that Topamax didn't work for the fat girls in treatment there. I guess it does work for some people like Karen, though, so I am going to try it.
>
> I think that carb cravings are a distinct phenomenon which most people experience at some point, and some people have a persistent problem with them. My guess would be that you are most likely to be helped by antiobesity treatments which generally help people lose weight gained as a result of carb cravings.
>
> Best wishes to you and your cat.
>
> -elizabeth

 

Re:Topamax

Posted by Lynne on June 5, 2001, at 8:46:19

In reply to Re:Topamax, posted by Montana50 on June 5, 2001, at 1:24:49

Kathryn and All,

Thanks for sharing your stories on Topamax. Is Topamax sedating or stimulating for most people? Is it taken am or pm? Can anyone compare it to Lamictal? I did like Lamictal but I looked like I had a bad sunburn on one side of my face so I quit taking it.

thanks,
Lynne

 

Re:Topamax-rapid cylcing and hormone Madeup Name

Posted by AMenz on June 5, 2001, at 11:29:07

In reply to Re:Topamax, posted by Montana50 on June 5, 2001, at 1:24:49

You're the first person here to mention hormone replacement and rapid cylcing.

Have you had an experience of the cycling increasing with hormone replacement (estrogen therapy)?

Did you experience menopause and have the cycling decrease but the depression increase?

I can't find anyone down here knowledgeable in the interaction of menopausal changes in hormone levels and rapid cycling.

I've been through a horrible two year period. Finally have had to take control over my medication myself. BTW are you on Topomax alone or as and adjunct to Lithium or Divalproex?

> > >To all those of you have questions about
> Topamax, I would like to share my experiences.
> First,I am a middle aged woman who has Bipolar II
> mixed with rapid cycling. I am unable to tolerate anti-
> depressants and for various reasons am unable to
> take the standard mood stablizers or any of the
> new atypical antipsychotics. The last 2 years of
> of my life have been hell and I've lost those years
> of my life. Bad docs and bad meds. Fortunately,
> this spring I found a good Doc and hospital. He
> started me on Topamax but at 50 mg increments/wk.
> I also was on 2mg. 2x/day Klonopin, 1mg x4/day
> Ativan, Catapres,Hormone replacement therapy,
> thyroid 3(levothyroxine),thyroid 4 (Cytomel),&
> Sonata for sleep. He also started me on 10 mg in
> a.m. of dexidrine and 7.5 mg at noon. The T-3,T-4,
> and dexidrine were to help with the depression but
> not to set off the rapid cycling or hypomania.
> As I increased my Topamax, on the 3rd day, I would
> get my "Topamax drunk", I staggered when I walked,
> my voice was slurred, and I was drowsy and slept
> for 14 hrs. However, the next day these sx would
> be almost all gone. In the meantime, my mood was
> stablizing, but it seemed like I couldn't feel any
> joy, or satisfaction. Life seemed very dreary.
> Finally, my husband insisted that I be rehospiti-
> lized. Oh by the way, during this time, I wasn't
> eating very much, very little appetite. When I got
> to the hospital, I was able to go through the last
> 2 steps of my Topamax increases. My Doc changed mu
> Dexidrine to 15 mg. spansules in the a.m. and 10mg
> at noon. This seemed to help. I was able to get
> stablized and be discharged in 8 days.
> I take 400 mg. Topamax & it really has changed my
> life. I know that different drugs work differently
> for each individual but all the drugs I take every
> day seem worth it because now " I am glad I am
> alive and am going to see tomorrow." I urge folks
> to ask questions, educate themselves, and if your
> health provider is not meeting your needs, check
> around to try and find one who will. With know-
> ledge I have empowered myself so that I keep
> learning how I can manage my life and not let my
> disease control it. So when I fall down, I see
> it just as a lesson,not a defeat, to learn from
> the experience, not to blame or beat up on myself,
> and it makes getting back up that much easier.
> Something not so easily done.
> In short: My Doc told me that if he didn't start
> me slowly on Topamax it would be like giving me
> instant Alzheimer's,I lost my appetite & 17 lbs
> in 9 weeks, I experienced depression but I was
> free for the first time in several years of rapid
> cycling, dysphoric hypomania and with the change
> in meds I am functional and fairly happy and busy
> working.
> Know this is long, but I hope it helps and gives
> hope where hope is needed, and answers some of the
> questions about Topamax.
> Good Luck
> Kathryn1
>
>
>
> Elizabeth, I do eat breakfast and take melatonin. I give insulin to my cat and he is as well-regulated as cats can be as far as the diabetes goes. But he is old and has kidney disease. I have to give him subcutaneous fluids every other day with a big needle, and that is very stressful to both of us because it hurts him.
> >
> > Ouch! I know how he feels (I had sub-Q heparin every morning when I was in the hospital a couple months ago). You must love each other very much.
> >
> > > I was told by a relative who works at a residential psychiatric facility that Topamax didn't work for the fat girls in treatment there. I guess it does work for some people like Karen, though, so I am going to try it.
> >
> > I think that carb cravings are a distinct phenomenon which most people experience at some point, and some people have a persistent problem with them. My guess would be that you are most likely to be helped by antiobesity treatments which generally help people lose weight gained as a result of carb cravings.
> >
> > Best wishes to you and your cat.
> >
> > -elizabeth


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