Ruthie,
In some communities there are free medical clinics that also have access to free medications. Since you're not eligible for the patient assistance program, and Medicaid won't pay for Topamax, I suggest you see if you can find a free clinic in your area. Also, talk to your Medicaid case manager. She might know of other resources.
Yes, the patents on Topamax are a bit confusing. Some don't expire until early next year. It's not unusual for generic manufacturers to have tentative approval before the patients expire. That makes the process quicker once the patent expires.
Good luck,
Teri