What it is used for

Epilepsy
Preventing migraine in adults

Read our guides:

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Weight loss and binge eating, under a specialist
Alcohol dependence (limited evidence)

How it works

Topiramate calms nerve activity in several ways, including blocking sodium channels and boosting the calming messenger GABA. This makes seizures and migraines less likely.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Topiramate can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

tingling in hands and feet
tiredness
loss of appetite and weight loss
memory or concentration problems
trouble finding words
dizziness
low mood

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

sudden eye pain, redness or blurred vision. Get help straight away
not sweating and getting very hot
pain in your side or back, or blood in your pee, which can be kidney stones
thoughts of harming yourself

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

It can harm an unborn baby. If you could get pregnant, you must follow a pregnancy prevention programme and use highly effective contraception.
It can make hormonal contraception less effective.
Drink plenty of water.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.