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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 36 to 60 of 1838. Go back in thread:
Posted by sg on September 17, 2000, at 22:21:22
In reply to Re: topamax, posted by kady on June 2, 2000, at 13:24:38
>
My situation is the exact same.. my neurologist put me on Topamax for migraines, sleep, and weight loss.. said nothing about seizures or bi-polar... I am concerned about the varied uses... In fact they think I have Fibromyalgia... Any and all info would be appreciated... I'm on 25mg 7days,50mg, 75mg etc... scaryFrom 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
Posted by Karla on September 21, 2000, at 22:06:33
In reply to Re: topamax, posted by sg on September 17, 2000, at 22:21:22
I read on the internet when I was researching epilepsy the other day that the same neuron chemical that is responsible for epilepsy is also responsible for migraines. To much of it causes seizures, to little causes migraines. Many anti seizure medicines are used to treat migraines. I have mirgraines and cluster headaches. I have heard of Nurontin, Topamax, Dilantin, Depakote, and others being used. Also antidepressents are used to treat depression but are also used to treat headaches. Amitriptalyne, celexa, et . I am on Topamax (125 mg) and celexa (40 mg). Also heart medicines are used such as vepramil, propranol, inderol, etc. I am also on vepramil for my headaches.
The topamax and celexa both cause mental slowdown, tiredness, fatigue, lack of concentration, etc. but as your body gets used to it the effects are suppose to lesson. Another thing is key to the sucess of the drug Topamax is that it needs to be introduced to your body very slowley. 25 mg every 2 weeks. Keeping an am/pm balance. This will let your body adjust. If you get to tired or mentally slowed down they can slow down the increasing of the dosage. I have enjoyed being on it. I have tried all the medicines mentioned in my email and the topamax is the best tollorated by me so far. Good luck. go to www.rxlist.com and enter in topamax and it will bring up information
on the drug and give you all the possible side effects of the medicine even the rare ones. Good luck!
Posted by archer on September 22, 2000, at 21:51:00
In reply to Re: topamax, posted by Karla on September 21, 2000, at 22:06:33
>hey karla, thanks for the info on topomax. i was wondering why i was on such a small amount. i started on 25mg daily for 2wks, then 25mg bid this week, while starting 50mgs of serzone bid also this week. i've had trouble sleeping for the last 4 nites but figure thats because i weaned off the prozac for 2 weeks and that was completely out of my system. so i'll be patient for now. it was good to read your thread. thanks again. archer
Posted by Karla on September 23, 2000, at 14:43:08
In reply to Re: topamax » Karla, posted by archer on September 22, 2000, at 21:51:00
Archer, The trouble sleeping could be caused by the topamax also. The first week I was on Topamax I experience axiety and insomnia. It went away the second week. Then my dose was uped the third week and I again experience axiety and isomnia. The fourth week it went away. The sixth week on I have had no trouble with it. So it could be the topamax. Just a thought. Might want to mention it to your dr. and let him sort it out.
Posted by archer on September 24, 2000, at 19:50:08
In reply to Re: topamax, posted by Karla on September 23, 2000, at 14:43:08
>karla, thanks for feedback. i will bounce it off my dr. when i see him in oct. by then i will have been on topomax for 5 wks and serzone for 4 wks. im keeping track of strange things i notice so i can let him know. i realize these side effects disappear after weeks on the meds. but just in case they dont. ya know. ive heard great things about topomax and am very hopeful that it will help me along with some intense therapy. thanks again. archer
Posted by Bonnie Sue on October 13, 2000, at 17:22:54
In reply to Re: topomax, posted by archer on September 10, 2000, at 8:10:43
>new user of topamax myself and a little worried at the fast rate of increase my Physician
popped me on.....50 mg 1st day 75 mg 2nd and 3rd then 100 mg 4th 5th 125 etc ...... working to 200 fast and Im experiencing some problems! It has only been a week and Im wondering if any of you have had severe arm and leg pain? (as in shooting sharp pains) Doc says expect nerves to act up but this is a little crazy(hee..hee) ...though I am feeling much less suicidal day by day...(DX PTSD with no satisfaction in many years on many meds ...)Im surprised at the quick results already as far as my mood swings but pain is unbearable???? connected ...not connected...has anyone else experienced this? Thanks.....Bonnie
(I am documemting changes just in case related to increase at fast rate....hope all is well as you all sound so positive with effect and with wieght as well and I am also a 55 lb extra due to many little pills in past 15 years! )hi im a new topomax user. after years of suffering from frequent, severe, mood swings and numerous meds i was finally sent for a psychiatric evaluation and taken off prozac and put on topomax. just stated this week with 25mg daily for the 1st 2wks. then 25mgs bid along with serzone. i am very hopeful at this point. i have put on 30 lbs this last year and am totally disgusted by my binge eating. any info will be welcomed. thanx for the outlet. archer
Posted by amyw on October 14, 2000, at 16:27:18
In reply to Re: topamax, posted by Amy O on June 7, 2000, at 13:37:14
My son just started topamax for a binge eating disorder after many tries with prozac and wellbutrin. I am hoping to hear that it is helping you in this area. Please write back and let me know how you are doing. this problem is a total nightmare for him and topamx is upposed to curb the urge to binge.
Posted by Bonnie Sue on October 14, 2000, at 18:34:22
In reply to Re: topamax, posted by amyw on October 14, 2000, at 16:27:18
>unfortunatly can not help you with binge eating my wieght gain came over time and very slowley with many years of meds. but good luck though I have not read this as a reason for such a strong med other than if your child has had trauma .....but I am not a Doc just a researcher after many years of docs and meds..... my main concern again if anyone should read this please respond to previous writing "dated 10/13/00 Bonnie Sue" as I have severe pain....again good luck to you and your child....!
Bonnie sue
My son just started topamax for a binge eating disorder after many tries with prozac and wellbutrin. I am hoping to hear that it is helping you in this area. Please write back and let me know how you are doing. this problem is a total nightmare for him and topamx is upposed to curb the urge to binge.
Posted by amyw on October 15, 2000, at 22:01:49
In reply to Re: topamax » amyw, posted by Bonnie Sue on October 14, 2000, at 18:34:22
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.
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.
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.
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
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!
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!
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.
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 SueI 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
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? EllenHi --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
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
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!
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!
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
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). MaribethMaribeth:
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
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.
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.
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
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