Last month ago I contacted my neurologist to learn how to discontinue Topamax, a prescription medicine taken to help prevent migraine symptoms. I was having too many side effects — and concerns — so it was time.
When I started this migraine prevention medicine in the spring of 2023, I did notice some healing benefits. My dizziness was reduced. I didn’t have as many vertigo episodes. My daily life was improving, so I felt like it was a good fit for me. However, after chatting with friends who also manage migraines and other neurological issues, oftentimes, migraine prevention medicine doesn’t work its magic forever.
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3 Reasons Why I Stopped Taking Topamax
I chose to quit Topamax due to the numerous side effects I was managing, as well as the potential risks it poses with long-term use. Specifically:
- Topamax was causing my mild gastroparesis to intensify and flares to occur more often. I spoke with my gastroenterologist to get her take on things, and she explained that Topamax is known to make gastroparesis flare up. Not being able to properly eat and digest food is the number one reason I discontinued this prescription medicine.
- After doing some research, I learned that Topamax may increase the risk of bone problems including osteoporosis. The manufacturer states that Topamax can increase the level of acid in your blood (metabolic acidosis) which causes kidney stones, brittle bones and other issues. As a gal who manages rheumatoid arthritis and has a family history of osteoporosis on my mother’s side of the family, I decided I didn’t want to chance this risk. I like my bones strong and healthy!
- Finally, I chose to stop taking Topamax because I was experiencing several of the known side effects caused by antiepileptic drugs. Managing a new list of symptoms, plus the reduced efficacy of the medicine to help with my neurological issues, helped me make my decision.
I’ve been off of Topamax for a few weeks now and my digestion has improved. I’m also noticing the other side effects diminish. I’ve managed these neurological/migraine issues for almost a year, so it’s time to try a new approach.
In a few weeks, I’m meeting with a functional medicine doctor who focuses on finding the root cause of autoimmune disease. We will be looking at things like the viral load in my body, heavy metal toxicity, organ functioning, possible unhealed Lyme disease and other things that could be triggering my issues. Wish me luck!
I’ll be sharing more about this healing journey on the Cupcakes and Yoga Pants Facebook page.
Until next time,
Choose healthy!
Angela
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