Monday, May 28, 2012
Sunday, August 23, 2009 stacey asks

Q: I currently take 100mg of topamax for migraines, I have been taking it for a little less than a year

I currently take 100mg of Topamax for migraines, I have been taking it for a little less than a year.   My husband and I would like to start a family ASAP, I have been reading there are side effects to taking topamax while pregnant and would like to stop taking Topamax now.  What is the proper way to do this? Also, there is a chance I may be pregnant now, I won't know for sure for another week, could taking Topamax for the next month or so cause harm to the baby?  Thank you.

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Answers (3)
Nancy Harris Bonk, Health Guide
8/23/09 7:53pm

Hi stacey,

 

Yes, studies have shown that taking Topamax, a neuronal stabilizing agent, may increase the risk of birth defects. Continue reading this article for more information: Migraine Preventive Topamax May Cause Birth Defects.

 

 

Good luck

Nancy 

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Megan Oltman, Health Guide
8/23/09 9:24pm

Stacey you should speak to your doctor about going off the Topamax as well - there can be some seizure risk in going off it suddenly and you should check with the doctor about how to taper down the dose to go off it gradually.

 

- Megan

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8/24/09 1:32pm

Definitely taper off the dosage as the side effects can be really bad if you abruptly stop taking the medication. I was still on the Topamax when I found out I was pregnant, so I talked to my doctor and he tapered me off and everything was fine. Just make sure you talk to your doctor about how much to taper off and what not. Hopefully everything works out for you!

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By stacey— Last Modified: 12/27/10, First Published: 08/23/09