Memory problems - Topamax

[davidmc]

I'm on Topamax for my epilepsy but I and others have noticed I've been having memory problems.
They weren't too bad a first but they have got more frequent.
I do knitting every Tuesday but forgot that and had to go back for it recently, I've very often forgot to bring the things I need for art I do every Thursday. Forgotten I've drawn money out of the bank and then drawn more out (only realised these times thanks to mini statements).
I've forgotten my bank pin number sometimes even though I've had the same one for years.
There are a lot of other things too.
As I can't drive I cycle when I meet my gf (as her carer doesn't give lifts and we often go to ordsall hall after art so I can't just get the bus) and I always stop at red lights, I don't have a death wish. But sometimes I've even forgotten to do that lately. Luckily there have been no accidents.

I've got a neurologist appointment on Wednesday. Ideally I'd like to change to a different medication, I know all medications can have problems. But I'm forgetting things that I need to remember. Topamax was my first and only epilepsy medication. Is there a particular medication that works best on simple partial seizures?

 

[Nakamova]

Topamax is sometimes called "Dopamax" because of its cognitive side effects, so it's probably time for a chat with you neuro about making a switch. Lamictal, Depakote, Trileptal, Tegretol, Keppra -- all can be prescribed for simple partials. It's tough to predict how you might do on any of the other meds since everyone reacts differently, but Lamictal has a reputation for causing fewer cognitive side effects. I'm on Lamictal for my tonic-clonic seizures, and I haven't noticed any cognitive side effects.

 

[Buddy's owner]

I'm on tegretol as you know already. It's my best friend seizure wise. Maybe speak to your neurologist about tegretol. Also ask about the other mentioned.

 

[davidmc]

The neurologist thought the best idea would be to cut the Topamax down by 50mg and see if that helps as it may have been when it went up that it got worse, not sure.
But he didn't give me anything else to take instead of the lower dose.

 

[Nakamova]

I hope it helps! Keep track of how you feel, and let the doc know if there are still side effects and/or any breakthrough seizures on the lower dose.

 

[sjconner]

I had memory issues when I was on Topamax. It was the reason I now have a day by day pill box. Most of the time I couldn't even remember if I had taken my medication. My neuro took me off of it. I could barely do my job (teach high school kids) as all I wanted to do was sing the Smurf song and giggle. It also made by blood sugar level crash. Now I am ramping up on Lamotrigine.