I started taking Topamax to control my migraines. Since I have a very low tolerance to medication, I was only taking 25mg per day. My migraines stopped, along with any sinus pain & pressure. However, I instead of losing weight blew up like a balloon. Has anyone else experienced weight gain on this medication? I don't know if I want the weight or the headaches, since weight has always been a problem for me.
Weight gain on Topamax?
Question posted by Maryland2014 on 23 July 2014
Last updated on 9 June 2021 by mysunshine28
This question has also been asked and answered here: Does topiramate cause weight loss?
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Answers Page 2
mysunshine28
30 July 2014
Hi Marryland2014,
Its funny you should say that because I have been on topamax now for several months for my migraines. I still get migrains but, not as bad however, and I was hoping the topamax would help me to loose the extra 5 kilos I had put on over the years. I am pretty self conscious of what I eat and do a 2 hour brisk walk at least 4 times a week but I have found my weight also to be going up slightly, not by much but still it is and it shouldn't be because I eat healthily and I exercise a lot. So I don't understand either! I am on 300 mg daily. Can anyone help us with our question please? I am not sure but, does it make a difference taking my topamax at different times during the day which I do because I forget alot of tbe time :( ? Thanks heaps!
balbanese
23 July 2014
Yes, I experienced weight gain on Topamax as well. Discuss options with your Dr because some things that may help (hydration, light exercise, etc.) are contingent upon your present state of health. He/she may also have suggestions for other options as well. A blessing that the migraines stopped, many are not as fortunate to find something that actually works. Hope this helps.
Maryland2014
23 July 2014
Thank you for responding. I was excited when the doctor told me I might lose weight, that is always a plus for me. But I forgot that usually whatever is stated as "normal" has the opposite affect on me. Plus I has sleeping like the dead, not hearing anything, not even the dog barking in my ear. That scared me. I was feeling great, energy back and able to function like a normal person. I started walking every morning with the dog and sometimes in the evening. But then I started noticing leg soreness. Not pain but very sore. I started taking the meds every other day but the same thing. Finally been off of it for about a month. Some of the weight has gone away, no more sore legs, hearing during my sleep but headaches are back. Now trying Propranolol ER.
balbanese
23 July 2014
It's an ongoing battle, I have found if there are a few things that work, rotating helps as the body develops a tolerance or immunity if we try the same remedy every time a migraine occurs. Hang in there, keep walking and check out the Internet for other ideas, holistic, over the counter, etc. Don't but any miracle remedies because there are none, but there is a lot of good stuff on the net for this.
Related topics
topamax, migraine, weight loss (obesity/overweight), pain, weight, sinus, medication, tolerance, pressure
Further information
- Topamax uses and safety info
- Topamax prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Topamax (detailed)
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