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Topamax (topiramate) medication for migraine prevention
Topamax can make managing migraines simple and convenient. Take the first step towards preventing migraines with a board-certified doctor online. Book an appointment, get a Topamax prescription, and pick it up from your local pharmacy as soon as today.*
How does Topamax work, and what does it treat?
Topamax, or topiramate, is FDA-approved to prevent migraines and treat epilepsy. This medication works in many different pathways in the brain.
Trials showed that patients taking Topamax reduced the frequency of their migraines by over twice as much as those taking a placebo. Topamax has several other uses as well.
Migraine prevention & cluster headaches
Other medications our doctors may suggest for migraines and headaches include:
Epilepsy
Weight loss
Bipolar disorder
What are the side effects of Topamax?
Common Topamax side effects include:
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Nausea and diarrhea
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Dizziness, drowsiness, and trouble concentrating
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Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
Less common side effects that may be more severe include:
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Skin reactions, no matter how mild
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Vision problems, such as blurred vision
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Signs of kidney stones
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Symptoms of dehydration
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Allergic reaction
Drinking alcohol with Topamax can lead to serious side effects like dehydration. Topiramate can also elevate body temperature and decrease sweating, leading to life-threatening dehydration, especially in children.
How to take Topamax
Your doctor will give you instructions on how to take Topamax. It is usually taken once or twice daily, with or without food. The dose usually ranges from 25 mg to 400 mg. For weight loss, the dose may start at 25–50 mg and be taken once daily. Don't stop taking Topamax suddenly, even if your symptoms improve, as this may cause seizures.
Topamax typically stays in your system between four and six days after your last dose. If you take too much Topamax, seek immediate medical attention or call your local poison control center.
Drugs that interact with Topamax include:
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Birth control pills (oral contraceptives)
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Divalproex or valproic acid
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Other medications for glaucoma, including eyedrops
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Zonisamide
Topamax FAQs
How much does Topamax cost?
Depending on your pharmacy, brand-name Topamax can cost around $424 for sixty 25 mg tablets without insurance. However, generic brands, such as topiramate, which is the active ingredient in Topamax, are often more affordable. You can also find the lowest price at nearby pharmacies and save on prescriptions as a PlushCare member.
Is topiramate a high-risk medication?
No, Topamax is not a high-risk medication. Compared to other medications and antiepileptic drugs, it generally has a mild side effect profile. Speak to one of our doctors to find out if topiramate is right for you.
How does Topamax compare with other medications for migraines?
Topamax has been shown to be clinically effective for migraine treatment. Trials have shown that Topamax reduced migraine frequency over twice as much in patients taking it compared to those who took a placebo. However, the best migraine medication for you depends on several factors, including your medical history and any other medications you may take. After an online evaluation, our doctors can recommend the best migraine medication for you.
3 simple steps to get Topamax prescribed

Book an appointment to get Topamax medication

Talk to your physician regarding a Topamax prescription.

Pick up your Topamax prescription.
Topamax prescription pricing details
30 days of free membership
- Same-day appointments 7 days a week
- Unlimited messages with your Care Team
- Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
- Exclusive discounts on lab tests
- Free memberships for your family
- Cancel anytime
Paying with insurance
Membership
$19.99 /month
First month free
Visits
Copay
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
We accept these insurance plans and many more:



Paying without insurance
Membership
$19.99 /month
First month free
Visits
$129
Visit price without insurance
Topamax medication resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
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American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). Topiramate (Topamax) for Migraine Prevention. Accessed on April 25, 2023 at https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2005/1015/p1563.html.
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National Alliance on Mental Illness. Topiramate (Topamax). Accessed on July 29, 2023.https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Topiramate-(Topamax)
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Topamax. Accessed on July 29, 2023 at https://www.topamax.com/.
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U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Topamax (topiramate) Label Information. Accessed on July 29, 2023 at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/020844s041lbl.pdf.
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.