What is Topamax® and what does it treat?
Bipolar disorder requires long-term treatment. Do not stop taking topiramate even when you feel better. Only your healthcare provider can determine the length of topiramate treatment that is right for you. Not taking topiramate on a daily basis may increase your risk for a relapse in your mood symptoms, and it may also increase the possibilites of troublesome side effects such as seizures. Unlike other drugs used to treat bipolar disorder (e.g., lithium, valproic acid), topiramate does not have blood levels that we try to achieve. However, from time to time, your doctor may ask that you give blood samples to check for specific kinds of side effects. Also unlike many other drugs used to treat bipolar disorder, topiramate does not generally cause weight gain. In fact, most people taking topiramate will experience some weight loss. Topiramate has been associated with some cognitive-related problems. This difficulty with memory may include impaired concentration, attention, and language pr
