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.
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!