Has anyone used Topamax for weight loss?

I don't know if any of you that previously posted on this thread check in here now or not, but I wanted to post. I just found this website and think it is wonderful.

I have been on Topamax for about 5 years (this Nov., I think). There have been some periods of time during the 5 years that I did not take the medicine. I am not sure how much difference it has made in my headaches, but I don't really want to try going without it unless something better comes along. My Drs. prescribed Topamax due to the migraines and some tremors I had started having.

I have been blessed to have the side effect of weight loss. As the Dr. posted about his patient being 290, I was about 290/295. I am now down to 218/220 and still loosing. I did gain about 20/30 lbs back that I previously lost and had to loose it again. I believe I was off the meds when I had the weight gain.

Expand this post...

Someone else mentioned not being able to take the medicine due to cost. I am assuming that is because you do not or did not have insurance to cover most of the cost. For anyone that does not have insurance, please be aware that you may qualify for the Patient Assistance Program that the Drug Company offers. At the moment I cannot remember the company that makes Topamax, but go to their website and there should be something listed there about the Program. You can also ask your Dr's. office about it. Also, there are some states that have programs that have Prescription Programs to provide medicine for those that do not have insurance, but meet their qualification. This does not usually come through the Social Services office, it is usually a separate entity.

The programs do work because I was able to get my Topamax through the Drug Manufacturer for a few years after I lost my medical insurance.

Good luck!

I am on Topamax for Migraines, have been for 2 months. They have really helped with them. I still get them sometimes, hormonal mostly due to that time of the month but they have dramaticly changed from 6 a week to about 4 a month. I have had the tingling feet and hands and the change in taste with carbonation. As far as the weight loss, I was unaware that you could or would prescribe this drug as a weight loss tool. I have lost 6 pounds in a month which seems a healthier amount then 16 in 3 weeks. I know that weight loss is a side effect and i expect and look forward to losing more, however, it seems odd that the patient doesnt report any other side effects and maybe she isnt being completley honest because she is so happy with the results so far. I am also on 100 mgs aday and have had difficulty remembering things at times. These side effects are well worth it to me to avoid the pain and sickness of the migraines that were taking over my life.

Expand this post...

I just have to wonder if this is really a reaponsible way to lose weight. I am not judging, please dont feel that way, I just wouldnt want to live with these side effects if I did not have to. And before you say it, I am very overweight, so I do know how that feels as well. I have done alot of research and read alot of comments on Topamax and I have not come across one where they have not had any side effects. Good luck to you and to your patient.