Headache reduction via Topamax
 

Hi everyone,

In my PCS confused mind I accidentally posted yesterday asking about the wrong drug I'm considering. I meant to ask about Topamax not Tramadol

I'm hoping a few of you who endure chronic, daily headaches may have some thoughts on this. I have had 27 months of headaches that don't relent. These include the ever-present dull ache/throb that is global in nature as well as more unilateral, intense headaches that result from over-stimulation and last from days to more than a week.

After seeing a headache specialist he concluded that I have post-traumatic headaches that are not cervicogenic (neck) related. He also told me that Cymbalta, which I'm currently on, is an appropriate intervention and that, other than Topamax, other migraine-based interventions, such as triptans, will not likely be of much help (i.e. low % of success).

So, here are my two questions:

1. How effective have you found Topamax in reducing the number and intensity of your headaches?

2. Has anyone used Topamax in conjunction with Cymbalta? I'm on a very high does of Cymbalta (120 mg) and I'm a bit concerned with adding another neuro-impacting intervention to my regimen.

I did a search of the archives and found some info but became a bit overwhelmed. Hoping some "peeps" from our community might be able to help me out.

Thanks all!

I highly advise against taking an anticonvulsant unless it's your last option. I'm in hell with gabapentin which acts on calcium instead of sodium like topamax. Still these are electrolytes and aren't meant to be messed with. It's one thing if you're an epileptic. I wish I never took gabapentin. The last 8 months and my future may have been very different...

Topamax was the med that finally got rid of my headaches. I took in in conjunction with an anti-depressant and had no significant problems.

A couple of side effects can be a little weird. I got tingly fingers if I wasn't well hydrated. It can also make you a little slow on the uptake, especially with word-finding -- hence the nickname "Dopamax."

Anyway, in my experience it was a good drug and helped a lot, with a couple quirks.

Hello MicroMan

I'm Jenna

I have been on cymbalta for over 10yrs. 120mg daily. After my injury I lived with daily migraines for over 2 years. Your daily struggle to exist is not lost on me. Don't give up.

Topamax side effects were too much for me. I've tried a handful of meds that names r eluding me presently. I am now on a lot of gabapentin. I don't live with daily migraines. 6-7 month give or take since 4/2015. I take neudexta and memantine also.

I've had therapy, many sets of shots in back of head. Nerves burned on each side of head.

27 months after my tbi I had a massive stroke. Hemorage with clots 4 in brain.

I live by do what is good for the soul. Truly. I keep everything in my life as positive as possible. It has transformed my life in great ways. People around me either respect my boundaries or they can leave.

Keep searching til u find your tribe of doctors. If they aren't the right fit move on. All of my Drs are great and there's no ego in the way they all are determined to do what is needed to help me and I am take part in the action plan.

Be well & well minded, Jenna 🙂

1. How effective have you found Topamax in reducing the number and intensity of your headaches?

I found Topamax was like magic. I had a headache for over a year and started taking it and they stopped. I am on a low dose (the doctor said) 100 mg per day. I still get flashing lights and spots but not pain.

You need to take it every day and increase your dose slowly. I have minor side effects and have to drink water more often. I also noticed that some food tasted different.

2. Has anyone used Topamax in conjunction with Cymbalta? I'm on a very high does of Cymbalta (120 mg) and I'm a bit concerned with adding another neuro-impacting intervention to my regimen

No I also take Amitriptyline.

I would like to know more about this drug. Is it good for TBI? How can I ask my general physician for it?

Hi microman, can you please tell me more about your Botox treatments? My dr. Is considering it as nothing else as helped. I feel like I'd rather go medical marijuana route as I fear the side effects of Botox shots and any cosmetic changes. Thanks

Hi Today,

I had responded to this in the other post I had put up asking about Tramadol. Whether it's worth it or not is up to you. It's a bit costly and other than a "heavy" feeling on your forehead, I had no side effects that were unpleasant. One thing, though, having 20-30 injections isn't a lot of fun... they hurt!

I am not sure which drug you are asking about? The Topamax is for migraine like headaches. Topamax is not a narcotic so your general physician would be the correct person to talk with.

After ALL the attempts of diff meds, you name it, I've been on them (sorry, can't remember right now, but if I heard, prolly) Topamax seems to work FOR ME. I am om 3600mg of gaba daily as well, along with 200mg of Topamax daily as well.

EACH person is different and EACH drug works differently with one another. I duffer from seizures, so this works for me. I csn actually TELL if I miss my morning dose! It actually hurts my brain and boom, instant start of headaches [emoji29]

Many trial and errors I went through to find what worked for me, and adjusting of dosage.


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