This is just a thought, but have you considered perhaps going to a psychiatrist or even an addiction specialist, instead of a PCP? I find that they are more "in tune" and "up-to-date" as to these types of medications and it may be easier for you to get them prescribed to you. This is one of the suggestions that was given to me by my PCP. He felt it may be more beneficial to me, since he really didn't know much about the disease, let alone using Topamax as an off-label purpose. Just a suggestion. Believe me, I know how frustrating, time consuming, and costly it can be going back and forth between doctors and feeling like you are running in place. Hang in there....it will all work out for you.

In terms of the dosage, I am into my 4th week and up to 200mg. I found that while increasing dosages, it was like going up hills. Eventually, it all leveled out. When I increased from 100mg to 200mg, I noticed the most difference thus far. But it's been a week that I have been at 200mg and it's starting to level out in terms of the side effects and I am starting to feel great! I think this is the highestI will go in terms of mg's. No need to go higher. When I was first taking 200mg, I started to get headaches, but that soon went away. I feel really good now.

I will go back to my doctor next week for a check-up.....

***