Why is this medication prescribed?

Trokendi XR is a prescription medication primarily used to treat epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. It contains the active ingredient topiramate, which works by reducing abnormal electrical activity in the brain, thus helping to prevent seizures.

Trokendi XR may be prescribed for various types of seizures, including partial-onset seizures (also known as focal seizures) and generalized tonic-clonic seizures (formerly known as grand mal seizures) in adults and children aged 6 years and older.

How should this medicine be used?

Trokendi XR (extended-release topiramate) is typically prescribed for the treatment of epilepsy, migraine prevention, and occasionally for other off-label uses. Here’s a general guide on how Trokendi XR is used:

• Dosage: The dosage of Trokendi XR varies depending on the individual’s age, weight, medical condition, and response to treatment. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dose for you. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding dosage.
• Administration: Trokendi XR is an extended-release capsule, meant to be taken orally once daily. It’s usually taken with food to minimize stomach upset. Swallow the capsules whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the capsules before swallowing.
• Starting dose: Your doctor may start you on a low dose of Trokendi XR and gradually increase it to find the most effective dose while minimizing side effects. This approach helps your body adjust to the medication and reduces the risk of adverse reactions.
• Regular use: Take Trokendi XR at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body. This helps optimize its effectiveness in controlling seizures or preventing migraines.
• Do not stop abruptly: It’s essential not to suddenly stop taking Trokendi XR without consulting your doctor, as doing so may increase the risk of seizures or other adverse effects. If you and your doctor decide to discontinue the medication, your doctor will likely taper the dosage gradually to minimize withdrawal symptoms and risks.
• Monitoring: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for regular monitoring of your condition and medication regimen. Your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or make other changes based on your response to treatment and any side effects you may experience.
• Storage: Store Trokendi XR capsules at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep them out of reach of children and pets.
• Missed dose: If you miss a dose of Trokendi XR, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Always follow your doctor’s recommendations and ask them if you have any questions or concerns about how to use Trokendi XR correctly.

Other uses for this medicine

Some of these off-label uses may include:

• Bipolar disorder: Trokendi XR may be used as an adjunctive treatment for bipolar disorder, particularly in managing mood stabilization.
• Weight loss: Some studies suggest that topiramate, the active ingredient in Trokendi XR, may aid in weight loss, and thus it might be prescribed off-label for this purpose.
• Alcohol dependence: There is some evidence to suggest that topiramate may be beneficial in reducing alcohol cravings and promoting abstinence in individuals with alcohol dependence.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Trokendi XR may be used off-label to help manage certain symptoms of PTSD, such as flashbacks and nightmares.
• Neuropathic pain: In some cases, Trokendi XR may be prescribed off-label to help alleviate neuropathic pain, which is caused by nerve damage or dysfunction.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Trokendi XR, here are some important points to consider:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to topiramate or any other medications.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Trokendi XR may harm an unborn baby, so it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Similarly, it’s essential to discuss the use of Trokendi XR while breastfeeding, as it may pass into breast milk and could potentially harm a nursing infant.
• Kidney stones: Trokendi XR may increase the risk of kidney stone formation. Stay well-hydrated and notify your doctor if you experience symptoms such as severe abdominal or back pain, blood in the urine, or difficulty urinating.
• Mood changes and suicidal thoughts: Like many antiepileptic drugs, Trokendi XR may increase the risk of mood changes, depression, or suicidal thoughts. If you experience any changes in mood or behavior, contact your doctor immediately.
• Interactions with other medications: Trokendi XR may interact with other medications, including oral contraceptives, leading to decreased effectiveness. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Drowsiness and dizziness: Trokendi XR may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or difficulty concentrating, especially when starting the medication or adjusting the dosage. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how Trokendi XR affects you.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and guidance regarding the use of Trokendi XR, and inform them of any medical conditions or concerns you may have.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Trokendi XR. However, it’s generally recommended to take Trokendi XR with food to minimize stomach upset. Additionally, maintaining a well-balanced diet and staying adequately hydrated may help reduce the risk of kidney stone formation, which can be a side effect of Trokendi XR.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Trokendi XR, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one. If you’re unsure about what to do, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance. It’s important to maintain a consistent dosing schedule to ensure the effectiveness of the medication in controlling seizures or preventing migraines.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Trokendi XR (extended-release topiramate) may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Trokendi XR include:

• Drowsiness or fatigue: Feeling tired or sleepy is a common side effect of Trokendi XR, especially when starting the medication or adjusting the dosage.
• Dizziness: Some people may experience dizziness or lightheadedness while taking Trokendi XR. This can increase the risk of falls, so caution should be exercised, especially when standing up from a sitting or lying position.
• Nausea or vomiting: Trokendi XR may cause gastrointestinal upset, including nausea and vomiting, particularly when taken without food.
• Tingling sensations (paresthesia): Some individuals may experience tingling or numbness in the hands or feet while taking Trokendi XR.
• Changes in taste: Trokendi XR can alter the sense of taste, leading to a metallic taste in the mouth or other taste disturbances.
• Weight loss: Weight loss is a common side effect of Trokendi XR, which may be desirable in some cases but may also lead to concerns in others.
• Difficulty concentrating or confusion: Trokendi XR may affect cognitive function in some individuals, causing difficulty concentrating, confusion, or memory problems.
• Mood changes or depression: Trokendi XR may increase the risk of mood changes, depression, or suicidal thoughts, particularly in individuals with a history of mental health disorders.
• Vision problems: Some people may experience changes in vision, such as blurred vision or difficulty focusing, while taking Trokendi XR.
• Kidney stones: Trokendi XR may increase the risk of kidney stone formation, which can cause severe abdominal or back pain, blood in the urine, or difficulty urinating.
• Decreased sweating and increased body temperature: Trokendi XR may interfere with the body’s ability to regulate temperature, leading to decreased sweating and increased body temperature, which can be particularly concerning in hot weather or during strenuous exercise.
• Allergic reactions: In rare cases, Trokendi XR may cause allergic reactions, including rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms require immediate medical attention.

It’s essential to discuss any side effects you experience with your healthcare provider, as they may indicate the need for dose adjustments or alternative treatments. Additionally, some side effects of Trokendi XR may resolve on their own over time as your body adjusts to the medication.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Trokendi XR:

• Storage: Store Trokendi XR capsules at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep them in the original container or packaging, and ensure that the container is tightly closed. Avoid storing Trokendi XR in the bathroom or other areas with high humidity. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of Trokendi XR capsules properly, according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal authority for instructions on how to dispose of unused or expired medications safely.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of Trokendi XR:

• Seek medical attention: If you suspect an overdose of Trokendi XR, or if someone has accidentally ingested the medication, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center (in the United States, call 1-800-222-1222) for assistance.
• Symptom management: While waiting for medical help to arrive, monitor the individual for symptoms of overdose, such as excessive drowsiness, confusion, difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate, or loss of consciousness. Provide supportive care as needed, such as maintaining an open airway and monitoring vital signs.
• Do not induce vomiting: Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional. Inducing vomiting may not be effective and could potentially cause further harm.

What other information should I know?

• Regular follow-up: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for regular monitoring of your condition and medication regimen. Your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or make other changes based on your response to treatment and any side effects you may experience.
• Medication interactions: Trokendi XR may interact with other medications, including oral contraceptives and certain antiepileptic drugs. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Avoid abrupt discontinuation: Do not suddenly stop taking Trokendi XR without consulting your doctor, as doing so may increase the risk of seizures or other adverse effects. If you and your doctor decide to discontinue the medication, your doctor will likely taper the dosage gradually to minimize withdrawal symptoms and risks.
• Patient education: Make sure you understand how to take Trokendi XR correctly, including dosing instructions, potential side effects, and what to do if you miss a dose or experience any adverse reactions. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for clarification.