Topamax and weight loss

[bobbiek]

I have digenerative disc disease and my neirologist just prescribed topamax,
he said it would help with the pain and tingling but could result in weight loss.
  I am wondering if prescribing topamax for ddd is common among neurologists? I can't seem to find any other information related to topamax as a pain med, only information I have is that it's a powerful drug with lots of side effects, most not so good.
The weight loss aspect is the only plus...also could this drug alter my brain function since I know it is used for bi-polar and seizure disorder... I'd like to know more about this med both from a neurologists view and from a weight loss specialists view. before I make a decision to take this medication
Thanks in advance for any/all responses

[Kristen2489]

I have been on Topamax, 50 mg for a week, and I have already lost 5 lbs! I have struggled with my weight since adolescence, and am thrilled to say that Topamax has really given me no other problems except a few weird tingling sensations in my feet, but I can deal. Anyone else start off like this? Is there a plateau you hit after a while?

Kris

[lincolnsfriend]

I have been on Topamax for a month. One 15mg pill per day. No weight loss. No adverse reactions. It isn't helping prevent the migraines at all for me. I am to increase to two pills a day for a month, then three then four, etc until visiting the doctor again in may. On imitrex as well, it does not work either. Anyone tried any other prescriptions that worked for them?

[hairloss2]

has anyone out there experience hair loss on topamax.  I'm really concerned about the hair loss issue.  please let me know how you are dealing with the hair loss on topamax.

[mmilldes]

I have been on Topamax for almost 2 months now and in the beginning, I had the tingling bad in my feet and hands. That subsided after a few weeks.  I also had the taste change when drinking soda which also got better but more recently.  Took longer for that to subside.  
The main side effect of the medication, which I personally LOVE, is the fact that I have so far lost 15 lbs. I haven't really changed my eating habits at all, so it's amazing.  My headaches are now totally gone (I'm up to a 100mg dose) and the weight loss it will stop.  
Hope that helps.

[Chrissar]

I've been taking Topamax for 5 months for migraines.  It has worked very well for me.  The only side effect I have experienced is weight loss, which I am thrilled about.  I've lossed 22 pounds.  Before I took Topamax the migraines were quite bad, I was having them a couple times a week.  Now I have maybe one a month.  I think Topamax is a wonder drug : )!

[intuch]

You're taking it for the 2nd time?  Did you have weight loss the first time?  I did, in 2003.  Now I've taken it for 6 weeks.  my craving have subsided but have not shed one pound. Am very disappointed.  What's your experience?