What is Topamax? How can it cause injury? Topamax is an anti-convulsant and a widely-used treatment method for certain types of epileptic seizures.  In addition, it’s also prescribed to prevent migraines.  More than 32 million prescriptions for Topamax have been filled since January 2007. The chemical name for Topamax is Topiramate – a sulfamate-substituted monosaccaride, related to fructose.  Topiramate works by calming over-excitable nerve cells to prevent them from sending pain signals. A scientific study, published by the American Academy of Neurology in 2008, established that taking Topamax increases the risk of birth defects.  The published study reviewed 203 pregnancies.  The rate of cleft lips and palates observed was 11 times more prevalent than the normal rate. Due to these and other serious side effects, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning for patients taking Topamax.  The warning was raised to Pregnancy Category D, which means there is positive evidence of human fetal risk. Topamax Products Topamax was discovered in 1979, and originally produced by Ortho-McNeil Neurologics and Noramco, Inc. – both divisions of Johnson & Johnson.  Originally approved in 1995 for treatment of epileptic seizures, it was approved for migraine treatment in 2004.  A generic version, distributed by Mylan Pharmaceuticals, was approved in 2006. Topamax is available in three doses in tablet form: 25 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg.  In addition, Topamax is available in a 50 mg dose for a sprinkle capsule, designed to be added to food.   The generic name for Topamax is Topiragen. Help if You’ve Used Topamax At O’Hanlon, McCollom & Demerath, our products liability attorneys understand that your baby’s injuries may be due to a side effect of Topamax.  Our in-depth knowledge and experience make us uniquely well-qualified to handle even the most complex Topamax cases.  If you suspect your infant has a Topamax injury such as cleft lip, cleft palate, or any other birth defect, contact us today for a free consultation.

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• What is Topamax?
• Topamax Usage
• Topamax Side Effects
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