What is topiramate?
Topiramate is an anticonvulsant used to treat seizures that don’t respond to initial treatment (refractory seizures) in dogs. It may be used to treat seizures or feline idiopathic ulcerative dermatitis in cats and refractory seizures in other animals, though little information is available for use in those species.
It is used off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
How do I give my pet topiramate?
Topiramate comes in capsule, tablet, and liquid suspension forms.
- All forms are given orally (by mouth).
- Topiramate is considered a hazardous drug. Wear gloves when handling the medication, and do not handle if you are pregnant or nursing.
- This medication may be given with or without food. If your animal vomits or acts sick after receiving the drug on an empty stomach, try giving the next dose with food or a small treat. If vomiting continues, contact your veterinarian.
- Liquid medications must be measured carefully. Contact your veterinarian if you have trouble measuring or giving the medication.
- Give this medication to your pet for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears that your pet is feeling better.
This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 hours.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember and then wait the recommended time as prescribed by your veterinarian for the next dose. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Are there any potential side effects from topiramate?
Topiramate may cause the following side effects:
- sedation
- ataxia (unsteady when walking)
- vomiting and/or diarrhea
- loss of appetite
The following reactions are rare, but if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:
- an allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment. Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.
This medication is short-acting, meaning that effects will last less than 24 hours, though effects may last longer in pets with kidney or liver disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
Topiramate should NOT BE USED in animals who:
- are allergic to any component of the medication
Topiramate should be USED WITH CAUTION in pets who:
- have kidney or liver disease
- are pregnant or nursing
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
Certain medications should be USED WITH CAUTION when given with topiramate, including:
- amitriptyline
- carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g. acetazolamide)
- central nervous system (CNS) depressants (e.g., cannabidiol, gabapentin, trazadone)
- furosemide
- hydrochlorothiazide
- opioids (e.g., buprenorphine, hydrocodone, tramadol)
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- Your veterinarian may schedule follow-up visits for monitoring. In this case, follow your veterinarian’s directions.
- At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If these occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store topiramate?
- Store at room temperature of 15°C-30°C (59°F-86°F).
- Store in a tight container protected from moisture.
- Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Adverse effects should be reported to the FDA or Health Canada.
