Campral and Topomax

[Guest]

Dr. Garcia, I am currently taking Campral and haven't had a drink for almost five weeks. I am going on a trip soon where I know alcohol will be a big part of the trip and I would like to see it I can practice moderation at that time. I have started to take Topomax in preparation for this as I don't want to destroy the progress I have made. My plan is to to titrate up in Topomax and stop taking Campral when I plan to have a drink. I have two questions, is there any danger to taking Campral and Topomax together and should I spread out the times I take them during the day and if so how.

Thank you for your help in this and just so you know outside of the supplements I am currently not taking any other medications.

Yvonne

[Guest]

Campral and Topomax

Hi, Yvonne,

Good work on the program. Have you included your pharmacist on the team? What does your primary care provider think about you taking two drugs that affect the same pathway? Do you have a health care provider with whom you are working or are you doing this on your own?

Moderation management as noted in the MWO program should incorporate a period of abstinence before starting on a plan of trial alcohol consumption. In addition, you may compromise your situation if you experiment with two similar medications. Also, we can't say exactly what level of upward titration will be effective for you to reach the medication's blocking effect.

Sounds like you have some challenges that will need thoughtful planning but you are well on your way.

Good health to you.

Also and I know you have heard this before, but it is possible to have fun without drinking alcohol!

Have a good trip.

--Dr. Garcia

[Guest]

Campral and Topomax

Dr. Garcia, I went for 30 days without a drink taking Campral only. In the last two weeks I started reducing Campral and going up on Topomax. I have had one glass of beer and one glass of wine about a week apart in the last two weeks and amd now off Campral and up two 150 Topamax. My doctor will only give me up to 75 mg. so I will have to continue working on him as he isn't a specialist on alcoho addiction but at least he is listening to me which is progress.

Thanks

Yvonne