TOPAMAX SURVEY - DOSAGE/LENGTH OF TIME/SUCCESS

[rightmind]

This forum has been informative and motivating because I really didn't know what to expect, especially from the Topamax. It sounds like some people have early "off" switches, and others have later ones. So far, the Topamax just makes me really, really tired. Maybe I just have a dimmer switch. Dimmer would be okay, because I don't even want to go AF, but I'm starting to lose my enthusiasm for the program. The community support that I see on this forum, however, seems like it could make a difference and help keep up the momentum.

[julie001]

I have been taking the topa for about two weeks and agree with the whole fatigue aspect, but I think that I am willing to struggle through this phase to forego drinking on a daily basis. I hope the sedating affect will diminish as time passes. Don't give up on it yet. From what I have read, a lot of the side affects lesson as time goes on. I absolutely agree with you that this site is a great place. With or without the aid of Topamax, just the support, understanding, and sense of humor that you get here helps with the struggle. Good luck!

Julie

[lookingforfreedom]

I don't have a problem with counceling, because I feel it doesn't hurt to talk about the things that have hurt or that are unresolved but....I have done counceling, but it hasn't helped control the drinking. That's what I need now and debating taking Topa without a RX.

[rightmind]

Hi -
Here's my spattering of scattered thoughts: If you can do it with a dr's prescription, do it that way because the side effects can be varied and weird enough that someone will be aware of the full medical/pharmaceutical picture. Also, I've been told that you can't be certain about what you're really getting when you order online. Also, if you have insurance and it's only a copay, it's cheaper - but if you have to pay out-of-pocket, it's pretty expensive. Maybe the #1 reason, however, is that I'd hate to go to my dr. with a problem and have to say "By the way, I'm taking Topamax." On the other hand, if I were the dr., I'd be delighted if my patient were motivated enough to want to try that. However, I've been in similar situations where what I've gotten was A Lecture.

[julie001]

I'm up to 75mg of Topamax and am really starting to notice a difference in craving. Out of habit, I will think about drinking and drink some, but I have only gotten drunk three times in August. Prior to Topamax that would have been reversed. It's difficult to explain, but that compulsion to drink is lifting. I've been enjoying my evenings sober and my mornings not hung over. Also, I've been trying whole-heartedly to take my multitude of vitamins that RJ recommends in her book. I go back to the doctor in a few weeks to let him know how my first month on Topamax went, and I will be telling him that I think it has been a great success. I dose up to 100mg a day in two days. I never planned on going AF, but that very well could be the outcome because of how much the Topamax is helping in this process. Good luck everyone.

Julie

[Rosey]

I am 89 days AF and have just recently found the site. I take my antabuse in order to keep myself from making a wrong impulsive choice. I still have that daily craving to drink. My goal is abstinence because I know with these cravings I won't stop at one or two. Have been thinking about trying Topa to help with the cravings but I am worried about the cognitive side effects. Due to my job I can't be making any mistakes. Is it just substituting words and fatigue? Or do people get confused and forgetful ? I would appreciate any advice.

[julie001]

I have some fatigue, but probably no more than I had when I was hung over on a daily basis. Cognitively speaking, I haven't noticed anything dramatic yet, but I am off of work for the summer so we'll see how things go when I'm back to work. I just started taking Neuro-PS (Phosphatidylserine 100mg). The owner of our local vitamin store recommended it. It's supposed to help with brain function, mental focus, and memory. I decided to add it to my vitamin regiment just as a precaution. I've done a lot of reading up on the Topamax, and the side effects are varied. Google it, but don't let that alarm you. Not everyone suffers from side effects. The positive aspect of this drug for me is that it does help take away the craving. Major kudos to you for 89 days AF. That's fantastic.

Julie

[Rosey]

Thanks Julie. I already have done much reading on it which is why I am hesitant to take it. It did alarm me. Some people seem really affected by it. On the other hand many have said it helps with cravings. Oh, how I would like the cravings to go away. I will write down the Nuero PS just in case I decide to start it. Thanks

[Paddy]

Just a brief note to tell you that having seen the results I had, my doctor has prescribed Topa for alcohol dependence to a number of patients.

I have been off the booze for 8 months now. I am no longer required to take Topa either. My old wits are back with me now.

Best wishes to those who are on Topa. For me it will always be a miracle drug ...

[betts]

Originally Posted by Paddy

Just a brief note to tell you that having seen the results I had, my doctor has prescribed Topa for alcohol dependence to a number of patients.

I have been off the booze for 8 months now. I am no longer required to take Topa either. My old wits are back with me now.

Best wishes to those who are on Topa. For me it will always be a miracle drug ...

So far (4 weeks) it's been a miracle drug for me too. I started feeling a reduction in craving the second week at 50mg and now at 75 mg I'm drinking the way I want to -- 1 or 2 glasses a night or socially with no urge for more. I have had NO side effects except insomnia which went away when I took it earlier in the day. I'm sticking to 75 mg.

I read this whole thread before getting the courage to order it from River (my dr.wouldn't prescribe it "off label") so I'm very gratefu to you.

Betts