Posted by Sabina on October 27, 2003, at 1:08:36
In reply to Re: Topamax - Update (Sabina), posted by DharmaMama on October 23, 2003, at 9:48:24
1) Forgetting things! As it is my mind is racing 24/7 which leads to forgetting things, losing things, memory loss and having a hard time getting to sleep. How common is this, does it subside?
>>>>I have experienced racing thoughts since I was very young, which has been greatly helped by Seroquel at 100mg a day. However, both short term memory loss and confusion were already problems for me due to Fibromyalgia/Chronic Fatigue Symdrome. So I'm sorry I can't give you any hope as to those symptoma abating over time.
2) The idea of weight loss is great. In the past 9 months I have gained 20 lbs, I use to average around 100. When stopping Top. (and not starting anything else), how many gained weight?
>>>>I have only been on Topmax for a month, but I already tell I have lost some weight from the way my clothes fit. I can't let myself get hung up on scales and numbers or I'll drive myself nuts, but I've been pleased so far. My appetite is just greatly reduced, and I have absolutely no tolerance for alcohol. I can barely stand to smell it now, and I was largely self medicating before I found Seroquel and Topamax.
3) I have read on Top. website, "Do not take if you plan on becoming pregnant." Does anyone know if this med. causes damage to rep. system in females? Should one take precaution like those who take Accutane? There is a possibility we may want more kids. Sorry for the lengthy post, TIA."
>>>>From what I've read and what I understand, the only danger is to the developing fetus itself and not to the female reproductive system. In fact, I plan to wean off of the drug late next year to become pregnant myself.
I was only recently diagnosed with Bipolar II. Even though I am far from the picture of emotional well being, I am *so* much better than I was six months ago. SSRI's made me actively suicidal on a dialy basis. I have noticed that I already am very aware of a missed dose with Topamax, which gives me concerns for coming off of it next year. As far as other side effects, I have had a few headaches, some eye pain/pressure, dry/itchy nose and ears, intermittent insomnia, loss of appetite. I hate feeling like a slave to these meds, too, but I don't have much of a choice right now. I've reduced the stressors in my life as much as I can, but I can only do so much about my physical issues. Thanks for re-posting your original post. Please keep in touch with us about your progress. Good luck!
> As I said, I have not been diagnosed. A doc placed me on Topamax as a mood stabilizer. I am 26. I have social anxiety, bad temper, I have been depressed for as long as I can remember. I do exceptionally well at covering it up, even to myself. I have been in and out of therapy since 12. I have only been diagnosed with depression. On and off meds. I do not like taking meds. I was adopted at birth. Recently found out my mother died in '95 from apparent suicide heroin overdose. She was always depressed as well. I constantly think of suicide and have visions of the act in my mind. I self-mutilate. I often think to myself and find myself speaking my thoughts out loud. Embarassing. I think negatively of my looks.
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> Overall, this has been a frustrating part of life. I am sure we all know and experience this. So far, Topamax has been good. Yes it is early. We are all different. Topamax may be for some and may not be for others. We just need to find out what is right for each of us.
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poster:Sabina
thread:271804
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20031025/msgs/273805.html