Hi all,

I've chatted with a few people about this privately, but wanted to get more opinions. As an episodic, I've found that each time I'm in cycle and ramp up on Topomax, I am SOOO much more likely to become emotional or even cry over something that normally wouldn't bother me at all. I was in Houston this past weekend visiting some friends and learned that one of my friends takes Topomax ( a lower dose than me - 50 mg a day) for migraines. Because of her resulting mood swings, she also takes anti-depressants and anti-anxiety meds. Has anyone here done the same? I'm wondering if I should consider it, even though I don't like the idea of taking more meds. I'm afraid of how my moods and emotions are affecting my reputation at work. I'm in a management position and I just can not burst into tears in the middle of a meeting!

Background info…
I take Topomax vs. Verapimil because I have hypertension and I'm already on a beta-blocker to lower my BP. My neruo thought Topomax was the best option. It does lessen the intensity of the attacks, so I'm not prepared to give it up at this point.

~Kris

I think staying off extra meds is always a good option. Especially psych meds, which alter the brain chemistry. If you -really- feel that you need one, you could try a SSRI, but it takes weeks for it to build up in your body so that it works. My sister got her acute anxiety attacks cured with one of those.

There are other choices than topiramate and verapamil. Have you tried sodium valproate? It's also an anti-epileptic and could perhaps work if topiramate works for you. Lithium is also a choice.

At the moment it seems that even though you use topiramate it doesn't make you pain free. How much does it actually help with the attacks?

All the best,
Rosa

I see a mental health dr reguarly and have been told that topamax acts as a mood stablizer.  It is actually used to help people with mood swings.  Maybe a higher dose would help.  I know that I have taken up to 600mg before for ch not mood swings.  Maybe you should make a mental health apt and discuss it.

Just a thought............. Are you sure that it is the med that is making you depressed and moody?  I know that when I am in cycle those things come with the territory!  Lack of sleep, pain, feeling alone and desperate are all things that contribute to depression and moodiness.  

Take care,

Jeannie