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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by FranzLiszt on July 10, 2003, at 6:00:50
In reply to Topamax Experiences?, posted by Kingfish on January 4, 2001, at 7:29:48
I started topamax a few months ago, but within 3 weeks I stopped taking it. It was awful. The headaches were unstoppable. I also missed work twice because of the severe mood swings during the first week. My boss was understanding though. I honestly almost died during my first mood swing, it sent me into a kind of suicidal rage. Luckily I was at the music conservatory when it happened and my teacher was able to talk me down.
Posted by galkeepinon on July 11, 2003, at 0:14:41
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice?????, posted by LBcats on July 9, 2003, at 19:15:07
Hi Linda, I haven't been online for a few days, feelin a little down, but better tonight. Hope you are doing well. Good for you!!! You lost 2 sizes too-wonderful. Feels good doesn't it? I still have a few I need to lose for sure. I went back to taking 100mg of the Topamax a few days ago and it was a mistake, so I started back at 200 mg a day again yesterday. I'm famous for playing with my meds (bad girl) LOL
You sound like you have a pretty reasonable doctor?
Right now I am taking 75mg of Effexor and hope to increase it next time I see my psychiatrist. I believe I need a higher dose to keep my depression at bay for sure. We do sound alike. I have been hospitalized a few times for major depression and now I'm just trying to get my mood stabilized more. I still get a little depressed sometimes-but I'm working on that. So, you like the combo of Topamax and Effexor? How long have you been on both? Have you had any success with any other meds on the past? Why are you going off the Depakote???Hope to hear from you soon, if I can be of any help to you let me know.
Gal
> >Hi Gal,
> I lost 2 sizes in pants as well. I am however, still on a small dose of depakote. I will be taken off of that hopefully next time I go see my doc. She wanted to keep me on it one more month to make sure I didn't go manic because I had pretty serious mania streaks. So far so good. She had to wean me off the depakote very slowly. I mean slowly. Anyway, I hoping that I may continue more weight loss once she completely takes me off the depakote cause it may be that it still is causing me to keep weight on. I am not at my ideal weight but I really do feel wonderful. Who wouldn't with 20lbs less. It is amazing how you and I are taking about the same meds. How much effexor do you take? I take 300mg in the morning. I have been diagnosed as bipolar and have experienced pretty serious depression in the passed.
> I have been hospitalized twice.
> But I feel like a different person with topomax and effexor together. Let me know more about you
> Linda
> Hi Linda, that's right you're on the same dosage as I am of Topamax. Same time too. Well, I just went to the grocerystore: rice pudding, shortbread cookies, ice cream, Propel water, (like you want to hear my shopping list hehe) my point: I got home and I'm not even hungry-going through the isles made me ill-I'm just not hungry!!! LOL My brother is like wow-your appetite just ain't what it used to be-I'm like yay people are noticing-but better yet I've lost 2 sizes in my jeans. It's funny because I'm at a standstill too at about 22 Lbs now with the weight loss-I just keep drinking the water and mostly eat salads and turkey slices-the good stuff just appeals to me more. Poor Dreyers isn't going to be getting my business much longer LOL
> > I get energy during the day too and I have to be careful of the mania because I always have to make sure I don't have a fall into a depression afterward. A fine line......
> > Now that I've been on Topamax for a little over 2 months it really more or less makes me neither energetic or sleepy. At first it made me sleep like crazy. It has helped my depression and it's not even an AD. That is what amazes me. And that's why I'm wondering if I even need this Effexor.
> > OMG yes, I was on Depakote-no way not for me. you know that drill-I bet.
> > You sound so much like me-exactly-my patience was worth it too-so, so, so, so worth it!
> > Crossing my fingers, hoping, and praying that Topamax works for a good long time, and if my doc has to up the dose-so be it-I feel pretty good on it and I have faith in Topamax, hope you do too.
> >
> > Gal
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > > Hi Gal,
> > > I'm on 200 mg of Topomax. 100 in the morning and 100 at bedtime. I told you my appetite is back but it's funny I just said that because I spend a week with my sister and she told me I don't eat a thing. So do most people, so I guess I'm not as hungry as I thought. I'm like you, when I go to a restaurant, I order all this stuff and then I'm full right away. Everyone asks me why I didn't eat and the truth is I'm full. I'm at a standstill with my weight right now at 20 lbs less than what I weight before. I love it. I'm at a great size and I love the way I feel with topomax. I don't have a no care attitude although sometimes I do have an "all fun" attitude and sometimes that's not healthy for me. Most people get tired with it. I don't I get the opposite. During the day, I get energy. I think it is supposed to slow me down a bit. How much to you take and when do you take it? How does it make you feel? Sleepy, or happy or energetic? Let me know more. Before this I was on deepakote. Topomax is much better. The side effects for me lasted a good 2 months but now I now my patience was worth it.
> > > Linda
> >
> >
>
>
Posted by LBcats on July 11, 2003, at 7:12:05
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice????? » LBcats, posted by galkeepinon on July 11, 2003, at 0:14:41
> Hi Gal,
I've been known to mess with my meds too. So don't knock yourself over that. It's just part of what we do. I want to get off the depakote because it think it keeps me from losing more weight. At least that how I rationalize it. I really don't need it anymore. It is such a small dose. (250 mg a day)
I've been on many meds because they misdiagnosed me. They thought I was majorly depressed. they finally diagnosed me as bipolar and started getting the meds right. However, it wasn't until my second hospitalization that they got me on effexor and topomax.
I've been on prozac, celexa, zeprexa, serequel, wellbutrin, depakote, zanax and others that I can't remember right now. Most of these stopped working for me.
Well got to go. Tell me more about your meds and what happened with them. later.
LindaHi Linda, I haven't been online for a few days, feelin a little down, but better tonight. Hope you are doing well. Good for you!!! You lost 2 sizes too-wonderful. Feels good doesn't it? I still have a few I need to lose for sure. I went back to taking 100mg of the Topamax a few days ago and it was a mistake, so I started back at 200 mg a day again yesterday. I'm famous for playing with my meds (bad girl) LOL
> You sound like you have a pretty reasonable doctor?
> Right now I am taking 75mg of Effexor and hope to increase it next time I see my psychiatrist. I believe I need a higher dose to keep my depression at bay for sure. We do sound alike. I have been hospitalized a few times for major depression and now I'm just trying to get my mood stabilized more. I still get a little depressed sometimes-but I'm working on that. So, you like the combo of Topamax and Effexor? How long have you been on both? Have you had any success with any other meds on the past? Why are you going off the Depakote???
>
> Hope to hear from you soon, if I can be of any help to you let me know.
>
> Gal
>
>
>
>
> > >Hi Gal,
> > I lost 2 sizes in pants as well. I am however, still on a small dose of depakote. I will be taken off of that hopefully next time I go see my doc. She wanted to keep me on it one more month to make sure I didn't go manic because I had pretty serious mania streaks. So far so good. She had to wean me off the depakote very slowly. I mean slowly. Anyway, I hoping that I may continue more weight loss once she completely takes me off the depakote cause it may be that it still is causing me to keep weight on. I am not at my ideal weight but I really do feel wonderful. Who wouldn't with 20lbs less. It is amazing how you and I are taking about the same meds. How much effexor do you take? I take 300mg in the morning. I have been diagnosed as bipolar and have experienced pretty serious depression in the passed.
> > I have been hospitalized twice.
> > But I feel like a different person with topomax and effexor together. Let me know more about you
> > Linda
> > Hi Linda, that's right you're on the same dosage as I am of Topamax. Same time too. Well, I just went to the grocerystore: rice pudding, shortbread cookies, ice cream, Propel water, (like you want to hear my shopping list hehe) my point: I got home and I'm not even hungry-going through the isles made me ill-I'm just not hungry!!! LOL My brother is like wow-your appetite just ain't what it used to be-I'm like yay people are noticing-but better yet I've lost 2 sizes in my jeans. It's funny because I'm at a standstill too at about 22 Lbs now with the weight loss-I just keep drinking the water and mostly eat salads and turkey slices-the good stuff just appeals to me more. Poor Dreyers isn't going to be getting my business much longer LOL
> > > I get energy during the day too and I have to be careful of the mania because I always have to make sure I don't have a fall into a depression afterward. A fine line......
> > > Now that I've been on Topamax for a little over 2 months it really more or less makes me neither energetic or sleepy. At first it made me sleep like crazy. It has helped my depression and it's not even an AD. That is what amazes me. And that's why I'm wondering if I even need this Effexor.
> > > OMG yes, I was on Depakote-no way not for me. you know that drill-I bet.
> > > You sound so much like me-exactly-my patience was worth it too-so, so, so, so worth it!
> > > Crossing my fingers, hoping, and praying that Topamax works for a good long time, and if my doc has to up the dose-so be it-I feel pretty good on it and I have faith in Topamax, hope you do too.
> > >
> > > Gal
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > > Hi Gal,
> > > > I'm on 200 mg of Topomax. 100 in the morning and 100 at bedtime. I told you my appetite is back but it's funny I just said that because I spend a week with my sister and she told me I don't eat a thing. So do most people, so I guess I'm not as hungry as I thought. I'm like you, when I go to a restaurant, I order all this stuff and then I'm full right away. Everyone asks me why I didn't eat and the truth is I'm full. I'm at a standstill with my weight right now at 20 lbs less than what I weight before. I love it. I'm at a great size and I love the way I feel with topomax. I don't have a no care attitude although sometimes I do have an "all fun" attitude and sometimes that's not healthy for me. Most people get tired with it. I don't I get the opposite. During the day, I get energy. I think it is supposed to slow me down a bit. How much to you take and when do you take it? How does it make you feel? Sleepy, or happy or energetic? Let me know more. Before this I was on deepakote. Topomax is much better. The side effects for me lasted a good 2 months but now I now my patience was worth it.
> > > > Linda
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
>
>
Posted by Bubba32 on July 11, 2003, at 11:13:41
In reply to Topamax Experience me or the med?, posted by Bubba32 on July 4, 2003, at 11:29:32
to all those who asked about the dosage I am on 200 mg 100 at night 100 in the morning to date I have lost 50 pounds. Topamax is an appetite suppresant not a miracle weight loss pill. you will still have urges now and then to over indulge but for me I find that come meal time Im not hungry at all or if i do eat it is much less then what i use to eat,I get full alot quicker.
Posted by galkeepinon on July 11, 2003, at 12:48:25
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice?????, posted by LBcats on July 11, 2003, at 7:12:05
Linda, you sound like me! I went off the Depakote for the same reason but it wasn't helping at all either and I was misdiagnosed too.
My first AD was Prozac-worked well, but gained a lot of weight-stopped working, was on Ananfranil-gained weight-misdiagnosed with OCD, was on Luvox-misdiagnosed, was on Paxil had a bad reaction, was on Zoloft-didn't work, Celexa worked well for a while-great med for me, and tried a whole mess of many more also. I have seemed to find a pretty good combo (crossing fingers) with the Effexor, Topamax, and Klonopin-seems to work pretty good so far. I been through the run of the mill. I'm now concentrating on taking the nutrition path-eating more omega 3 fatty acids, supplements, drinking a lot of water, etc.Let me know how everything is holding up for you!
Gal
> > Hi Gal,
> I've been known to mess with my meds too. So don't knock yourself over that. It's just part of what we do. I want to get off the depakote because it think it keeps me from losing more weight. At least that how I rationalize it. I really don't need it anymore. It is such a small dose. (250 mg a day)
> I've been on many meds because they misdiagnosed me. They thought I was majorly depressed. they finally diagnosed me as bipolar and started getting the meds right. However, it wasn't until my second hospitalization that they got me on effexor and topomax.
> I've been on prozac, celexa, zeprexa, serequel, wellbutrin, depakote, zanax and others that I can't remember right now. Most of these stopped working for me.
> Well got to go. Tell me more about your meds and what happened with them. later.
> Linda
>
> Hi Linda, I haven't been online for a few days, feelin a little down, but better tonight. Hope you are doing well. Good for you!!! You lost 2 sizes too-wonderful. Feels good doesn't it? I still have a few I need to lose for sure. I went back to taking 100mg of the Topamax a few days ago and it was a mistake, so I started back at 200 mg a day again yesterday. I'm famous for playing with my meds (bad girl) LOL
> > You sound like you have a pretty reasonable doctor?
> > Right now I am taking 75mg of Effexor and hope to increase it next time I see my psychiatrist. I believe I need a higher dose to keep my depression at bay for sure. We do sound alike. I have been hospitalized a few times for major depression and now I'm just trying to get my mood stabilized more. I still get a little depressed sometimes-but I'm working on that. So, you like the combo of Topamax and Effexor? How long have you been on both? Have you had any success with any other meds on the past? Why are you going off the Depakote???
> >
> > Hope to hear from you soon, if I can be of any help to you let me know.
> >
> > Gal
> >
Posted by galkeepinon on July 11, 2003, at 12:49:44
In reply to Re: Topamax Experience me or the med?, posted by Bubba32 on July 11, 2003, at 11:13:41
Posted by Nycole on July 11, 2003, at 18:36:44
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice????? » LBcats, posted by galkeepinon on July 11, 2003, at 12:48:25
Linda and Gal.....
Hi Girls! Hope this message finds you both feeling well. I was just reading your messages and though I always read through the messages, I haven't written one in a while. I am still keepin' on with the Topamax. Doing pretty good with the depression. I still have a lot of social anxiety, which is kind of new for me because I am usually a very outgoing person. Do either of you experience that? I feel like just staying home all the time instead of going anywhere an I get nervous when I have to go places.
OK, so I've been on the Topamax for like 3 weeks and I don't think I lost any weight yet :(
Well, I weighed myself last week and I hadn'd lost a pound and of course that ruined my whole day so I am afraid to weigh myself again. Isn't it amazing what one little thing can do to ruin what would have been a normal day??
Anyway, I will keep my fingers crossed and try to weigh again next week. Like both of you were saying, my weight gain from the meds has made my deprssion even worse than it was (and I didn't think that was possible). I know losing this weight would make a world of difference. Thanks for listening!!
Have a good weekend. Hope all is well on your end!
Nycole
Posted by galkeepinon on July 11, 2003, at 21:17:18
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice?????, posted by Nycole on July 11, 2003, at 18:36:44
Hi Nycole, Great to hear from you again! Personally, I have been going through a little depression on my end and yes, I have felt the way you're talking about. I have felt like just staying home, not really getting out of my pj's. I have made it to the store a few times, but haven't been doing my hair or make-up, etc., things I usually do. I'm having an extremely hard time getting back any kind of motivation to fininsh my schoolwork, which I hope has to do with a Topamax side effect as much as I hate to say that-rather than me losing interest in school when I'm almost done. Yikes!
So what dose are you on now of the Topamax? I'm still on 200mg. Have you increased it any? Maybe for you, 3 weeks is still early to see some weight loss, just keep hanging in and try weighing yourself next week like you said. How do you feel otherwise? How is your appetite? How are foods and drinks tasting?
So glad to hear from you!
Always let me know how you're doing ok.
Gal> Linda and Gal.....
>
> Hi Girls! Hope this message finds you both feeling well. I was just reading your messages and though I always read through the messages, I haven't written one in a while. I am still keepin' on with the Topamax. Doing pretty good with the depression. I still have a lot of social anxiety, which is kind of new for me because I am usually a very outgoing person. Do either of you experience that? I feel like just staying home all the time instead of going anywhere an I get nervous when I have to go places.
> OK, so I've been on the Topamax for like 3 weeks and I don't think I lost any weight yet :(
> Well, I weighed myself last week and I hadn'd lost a pound and of course that ruined my whole day so I am afraid to weigh myself again. Isn't it amazing what one little thing can do to ruin what would have been a normal day??
> Anyway, I will keep my fingers crossed and try to weigh again next week. Like both of you were saying, my weight gain from the meds has made my deprssion even worse than it was (and I didn't think that was possible). I know losing this weight would make a world of difference. Thanks for listening!!
> Have a good weekend. Hope all is well on your end!
> Nycole
Posted by LBcats on July 11, 2003, at 22:06:28
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice????? » LBcats, posted by galkeepinon on July 11, 2003, at 12:48:25
>Hi Gal,
That's funny you mentioned the omega 3 fatty acids. My doc told me to take flax oil that contains lots of omega 3. I took it for a while then kind of gave up on it since they are horse pills and cost as much as my RX's. Anyway, I eat the right foods.
Haven't been doing well lately, just kind of depressed. Maybe I should start taking my flax oil, who knows. I'm scheduled to see my doc again on the 11th of Aug. But I've got lots of stress at work too. Anyway, hopefully it will pass. laterLinda
Linda, you sound like me! I went off the Depakote for the same reason but it wasn't helping at all either and I was misdiagnosed too.
> My first AD was Prozac-worked well, but gained a lot of weight-stopped working, was on Ananfranil-gained weight-misdiagnosed with OCD, was on Luvox-misdiagnosed, was on Paxil had a bad reaction, was on Zoloft-didn't work, Celexa worked well for a while-great med for me, and tried a whole mess of many more also. I have seemed to find a pretty good combo (crossing fingers) with the Effexor, Topamax, and Klonopin-seems to work pretty good so far. I been through the run of the mill. I'm now concentrating on taking the nutrition path-eating more omega 3 fatty acids, supplements, drinking a lot of water, etc.
>
> Let me know how everything is holding up for you!
> Gal
>
>
>
>
> > > Hi Gal,
> > I've been known to mess with my meds too. So don't knock yourself over that. It's just part of what we do. I want to get off the depakote because it think it keeps me from losing more weight. At least that how I rationalize it. I really don't need it anymore. It is such a small dose. (250 mg a day)
> > I've been on many meds because they misdiagnosed me. They thought I was majorly depressed. they finally diagnosed me as bipolar and started getting the meds right. However, it wasn't until my second hospitalization that they got me on effexor and topomax.
> > I've been on prozac, celexa, zeprexa, serequel, wellbutrin, depakote, zanax and others that I can't remember right now. Most of these stopped working for me.
> > Well got to go. Tell me more about your meds and what happened with them. later.
> > Linda
> >
> > Hi Linda, I haven't been online for a few days, feelin a little down, but better tonight. Hope you are doing well. Good for you!!! You lost 2 sizes too-wonderful. Feels good doesn't it? I still have a few I need to lose for sure. I went back to taking 100mg of the Topamax a few days ago and it was a mistake, so I started back at 200 mg a day again yesterday. I'm famous for playing with my meds (bad girl) LOL
> > > You sound like you have a pretty reasonable doctor?
> > > Right now I am taking 75mg of Effexor and hope to increase it next time I see my psychiatrist. I believe I need a higher dose to keep my depression at bay for sure. We do sound alike. I have been hospitalized a few times for major depression and now I'm just trying to get my mood stabilized more. I still get a little depressed sometimes-but I'm working on that. So, you like the combo of Topamax and Effexor? How long have you been on both? Have you had any success with any other meds on the past? Why are you going off the Depakote???
> > >
> > > Hope to hear from you soon, if I can be of any help to you let me know.
> > >
> > > Gal
> > >
>
Posted by LBcats on July 11, 2003, at 22:15:14
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice?????, posted by Nycole on July 11, 2003, at 18:36:44
>Nycole
I can't remember when my weight loss started but I know it wasn't in 3 weeks because my doc started me slowly on Topomax. And even if they started you on a higher dose it takes awhile to get into your system. Give it time. You have to be patient and dont' get on that scale again, until you start eating less. You will know when you start eating less. You will know when your appetite is suppressed, believe me. Topomax works as an appetite suppressant. Some days I will forget to eat. My husband has to remind me.
good luck and if you need anything just holler.
Linda
Linda and Gal.....
>
> Hi Girls! Hope this message finds you both feeling well. I was just reading your messages and though I always read through the messages, I haven't written one in a while. I am still keepin' on with the Topamax. Doing pretty good with the depression. I still have a lot of social anxiety, which is kind of new for me because I am usually a very outgoing person. Do either of you experience that? I feel like just staying home all the time instead of going anywhere an I get nervous when I have to go places.
> OK, so I've been on the Topamax for like 3 weeks and I don't think I lost any weight yet :(
> Well, I weighed myself last week and I hadn'd lost a pound and of course that ruined my whole day so I am afraid to weigh myself again. Isn't it amazing what one little thing can do to ruin what would have been a normal day??
> Anyway, I will keep my fingers crossed and try to weigh again next week. Like both of you were saying, my weight gain from the meds has made my deprssion even worse than it was (and I didn't think that was possible). I know losing this weight would make a world of difference. Thanks for listening!!
> Have a good weekend. Hope all is well on your end!
> Nycole
Posted by KRM123 on July 11, 2003, at 22:31:58
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice?????, posted by Nycole on July 11, 2003, at 18:36:44
Hi I am going to ask my Dr. to put me on Topamax next week. My appetite is outrageous with the Zoloft. Losing about 10lbs would make a world of difference for me! I am depressed about my weight so keep eating for comfort. I really hope and pray that the Topamax is my answer. I am so scared that I am going to have some awful side effect with it and will have to discontinue or it won't suppress my appetite. I am really scared because it just has to work! I go back to school at the end of August and don't want to buy a whole new wardrobe...How many mg do you usually start out taking? Thanks.
Posted by LBcats on July 11, 2003, at 22:46:21
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice????? Nycole, posted by KRM123 on July 11, 2003, at 22:31:58
> Not all Doc's will use Topomax although because most people who are depressed feel better about themselves if they lose weight, doc's are more likely to use it. However, the drug does have side effects. And it's not meant for everybody in terms of therapeutic effects. I am bipolar so for me it works great.
If you want to start on it, do it now because the worst side effect is the "stupids" or loss of memory, disorientation. Sometimes they call topomax, dopiemax or other stupid names like that because it does give you the stupids for awhile. You forget what you are talking about and can't remember who you are. I forgot my husband's name several times can you believe that? Anyway, it took about 6-8 weeks to get over all the effects completely. I started at 25-50 mg a day and I am up to 200 mg a day and the only side effect still with me is the loss of appetite.
good luck
Hi I am going to ask my Dr. to put me on Topamax next week. My appetite is outrageous with the Zoloft. Losing about 10lbs would make a world of difference for me! I am depressed about my weight so keep eating for comfort. I really hope and pray that the Topamax is my answer. I am so scared that I am going to have some awful side effect with it and will have to discontinue or it won't suppress my appetite. I am really scared because it just has to work! I go back to school at the end of August and don't want to buy a whole new wardrobe...How many mg do you usually start out taking? Thanks.
>
>
>
Posted by KRM123 on July 12, 2003, at 11:54:38
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice????? Nycole, posted by LBcats on July 11, 2003, at 22:46:21
LB,
Thanks for the info. I really hope I don't get the side effects too severely. I am waitressing right now so to forget things would be a major problem. I am just really concerned about controlling my appetite so I'll try anything. I know a girl who is on it and she is Bipolar. I am going to see the same Dr. as her. I hope he'll think it's okay that I take it. Do you think long term use of Topamax can make a person "stupid" since the side effects are like that? I always worry about what these drugs are going to do to me in the future...but I just can't dwell on it I guess.
Not all Doc's will use Topomax although because most people who are depressed feel better about themselves if they lose weight, doc's are more likely to use it. However, the drug does have side effects. And it's not meant for everybody in terms of therapeutic effects. I am bipolar so for me it works great.
> If you want to start on it, do it now because the worst side effect is the "stupids" or loss of memory, disorientation. Sometimes they call topomax, dopiemax or other stupid names like that because it does give you the stupids for awhile. You forget what you are talking about and can't remember who you are. I forgot my husband's name several times can you believe that? Anyway, it took about 6-8 weeks to get over all the effects completely. I started at 25-50 mg a day and I am up to 200 mg a day and the only side effect still with me is the loss of appetite.
> good luck
Posted by Nycole on July 12, 2003, at 23:59:24
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice????? » Nycole, posted by galkeepinon on July 11, 2003, at 21:17:18
Gal,
Do you think the "loss of motivation" to do things and be in social setting, etc. is from the Topamax?? I just thought it was from my depression and I was hoping the Topamax was going to eventually make it better. I wasn't really thinking it might be caused by the Topamax. Had you heard that was a side effect?? I've sure had all the other side effects, that's for sure. Before I started Topamax, my biggest addiction in the world was Pepsi Cola and boy did Topamax ruin that for me!! I miss it so much!! But if the weight loss thing comes through and I continue to get better with the depression it will be worth it. I do still have quite a ways to go with the depression. But I know I have to be patient. I am on 150 mg. a day right now and 300 of Effexor. How are you doing on the Effexor?? Any side effects? You shouldn't have any...it's a good drug.Nycole
Posted by galkeepinon on July 13, 2003, at 0:12:06
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice?????, posted by Nycole on July 12, 2003, at 23:59:24
Hi Nycole, I'm usually a very outgoing, social person but since I started the Topamax-yes I do believe, for me, that the loss of motivation to do things such as get dressed, look nice, put make up on,etc. is from the Topamax. BUT, I was also in the hospital for 3 weeks-my routine was put on hold. As my dosage was increased, yes my motivation dwindled-only to a small degree-and it is getting better. For you, you have to compare your feelings before and after you started your Topamax personally. That would be your best bet. Yes, I have read numerous articles and drug sheets that loss of motivation was a side effect that one could get, unfortunately. In regards to the Pepsi Cola, I liked Diet Coke, and I lost the taste for it too, and I don't miss it anymore-I never thought about it much and it never dawned on me "wow-I don't even care, I just don't drink it now" Maybe that will happen for you-I don't know. It's amazing how without taste what we can do. I mean sometimes those sodas is what contributes to our weight ya know? The sodium, sugar, empty calories-think about it. So, if we can't taste it or it tastes bad, we're less likely to want to drink it, and that will add to our decrease in weight (at least partially anyhow)
The Effexor is going ok so far-feeling better-still only on 75mg-see my doc next week-I'll see what he says.
So good to hear from you-and remember, I wanna hear when you start to see the scale or the weight come off;) I'm sure I will.
Hang in there.Gal
> Gal,
> Do you think the "loss of motivation" to do things and be in social setting, etc. is from the Topamax?? I just thought it was from my depression and I was hoping the Topamax was going to eventually make it better. I wasn't really thinking it might be caused by the Topamax. Had you heard that was a side effect?? I've sure had all the other side effects, that's for sure. Before I started Topamax, my biggest addiction in the world was Pepsi Cola and boy did Topamax ruin that for me!! I miss it so much!! But if the weight loss thing comes through and I continue to get better with the depression it will be worth it. I do still have quite a ways to go with the depression. But I know I have to be patient. I am on 150 mg. a day right now and 300 of Effexor. How are you doing on the Effexor?? Any side effects? You shouldn't have any...it's a good drug.
>
> Nycole
Posted by Stacy Louisa Beus on July 13, 2003, at 9:19:33
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice?????, posted by LBcats on July 11, 2003, at 22:15:14
my weight loss has been so slow, I do appreciate it though don't get me wrong. I could never have lost an ounce without topamax I know that. But I only lose 5 pounds a month at the most. That gets very depressing seeing as I need to lose another 100 pounds. I have only lost about 45 or maybe 40 pounds pounds since last august. At that speed it will be years before I will ever get my figure back. I am insulin resistant also and bipolar. Great combination. some days my depression is so great I could cry all day if I gave in, but thank god I have a job and kids and a wonderful boyfriend that absolutely saves me. Otherwise who knows where I would be?! Well thank you for listening!
Stacy
Posted by Stacy Louisa Beus on July 13, 2003, at 11:57:37
In reply to Re: Topomax-Should I or shouldn't I????, posted by dddiane on July 4, 2003, at 5:18:59
I hate more than anything to feel this cranky and seriously b#*@(y! My poor family. I am in a rage and then all I want to do is cry. Sense taking the topomax at 200 mg at least I can sleep at night ~ but I do have to force food down my throat. I wish I never had to eat. Its such a necessary evil to me. I am always thirsty but not hungry.
Posted by Stacy Louisa Beus on July 13, 2003, at 12:01:05
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice????? » Nycole, posted by LBcats on July 6, 2003, at 20:10:43
could you tell me how long you have been on topomax and how many mg?
thankx
stacy
Posted by Nycole on July 13, 2003, at 15:06:02
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice?????, posted by Stacy Louisa Beus on July 13, 2003, at 12:01:05
I have been on Topamax a little over 3 weeks now. I am only on 150 mg. I am kind of new at the whole Topamax thing. Other people on here know a lot more about it than I do and can help a lot more but I'll help you out as much as I can.
:)Nycole
Posted by galkeepinon on July 13, 2003, at 15:46:25
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice?????, posted by Nycole on July 13, 2003, at 15:06:02
Posted by galkeepinon on July 13, 2003, at 18:40:12
In reply to Re: Topomax-Should I or shouldn't I????, posted by Stacy Louisa Beus on July 13, 2003, at 11:57:37
Stacy, I have felt that way while starting Topamax-some days are better than others-I don't know why this happens. Sometimes I wonder if the Topamax is causing it. But I continue and go with it and try to calm down-it usually passes.
Do you take your whole 200mg of Topamax at night? Like right before you hit the pillow or like an hour or 2 before? I'm trying to figure a time I can take it so I really can start maybe sleeping better. Now, how long has it been since you started the Topamax.
Look forward to hearing from you and please hang in there-I know it's tough-believe me-I'm here for ya!Gal
> I hate more than anything to feel this cranky and seriously b#*@(y! My poor family. I am in a rage and then all I want to do is cry. Sense taking the topomax at 200 mg at least I can sleep at night ~ but I do have to force food down my throat. I wish I never had to eat. Its such a necessary evil to me. I am always thirsty but not hungry.
Posted by LBcats on July 13, 2003, at 19:07:30
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice????? LBcats, posted by KRM123 on July 12, 2003, at 11:54:38
>Hi KRM,
I'm not really sure about whether it makes you stupid in the future or not. But I do find that when I get depressed, I find myself getting forgetful, again. I tend to blame it on the topomax although most people tell me that's part of being depressed. Right now I'm going through some depression and I'm having a very hard time concentrating so I start blaming it on the topamax. But overall, I love my topomax and I wouldn't give it up for anything. At least not for now. Good luck. I say you should at least give it a try.
LindaLB,
> Thanks for the info. I really hope I don't get the side effects too severely. I am waitressing right now so to forget things would be a major problem. I am just really concerned about controlling my appetite so I'll try anything. I know a girl who is on it and she is Bipolar. I am going to see the same Dr. as her. I hope he'll think it's okay that I take it. Do you think long term use of Topamax can make a person "stupid" since the side effects are like that? I always worry about what these drugs are going to do to me in the future...but I just can't dwell on it I guess.
>
>
> Not all Doc's will use Topomax although because most people who are depressed feel better about themselves if they lose weight, doc's are more likely to use it. However, the drug does have side effects. And it's not meant for everybody in terms of therapeutic effects. I am bipolar so for me it works great.
> > If you want to start on it, do it now because the worst side effect is the "stupids" or loss of memory, disorientation. Sometimes they call topomax, dopiemax or other stupid names like that because it does give you the stupids for awhile. You forget what you are talking about and can't remember who you are. I forgot my husband's name several times can you believe that? Anyway, it took about 6-8 weeks to get over all the effects completely. I started at 25-50 mg a day and I am up to 200 mg a day and the only side effect still with me is the loss of appetite.
> > good luck
>
Posted by LBcats on July 13, 2003, at 19:20:15
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice?????, posted by Stacy Louisa Beus on July 13, 2003, at 9:19:33
>Stacy,
You seem to have so much to be thankful for. Sometimes we focus on what is so wrong with us, we forget about everything that we have. When I get like this, I make myself write up a gratitude list. It amazes me to think about all the things I take for granted. I know weight is important because it is to me too, but life is full of love and right now am have been totally depressed and I have to find time to make myself feel better. I also like helping others feel better. I helps me. I may lose my job. I just had a guy hit my car from behind today and my back hurts and I could go on and on. But you know what, I won't. I think that things will work themselves out and I will be okay. I have to have faith. Hang in there Stacy. The weight will come off eventually.
Lindamy weight loss has been so slow, I do appreciate it though don't get me wrong. I could never have lost an ounce without topamax I know that. But I only lose 5 pounds a month at the most. That gets very depressing seeing as I need to lose another 100 pounds. I have only lost about 45 or maybe 40 pounds pounds since last august. At that speed it will be years before I will ever get my figure back. I am insulin resistant also and bipolar. Great combination. some days my depression is so great I could cry all day if I gave in, but thank god I have a job and kids and a wonderful boyfriend that absolutely saves me. Otherwise who knows where I would be?! Well thank you for listening!
> Stacy
Posted by LBcats on July 13, 2003, at 19:25:49
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice?????, posted by Stacy Louisa Beus on July 13, 2003, at 12:01:05
>Stacy, I wasn't sure If you were refering to me. I have been on topomax for almost 5 months and I am on 200mg. I take 100 in the a.m. and 100 at night.
Lindacould you tell me how long you have been on topomax and how many mg?
> thankx
> stacy
Posted by galkeepinon on July 13, 2003, at 20:58:01
In reply to Re: Topamax Weight Loss Advice?????, posted by LBcats on July 13, 2003, at 19:20:15
There's also a great book out there called
"ATTITUDES OF GRATITUDES-HOW TO GIVE AND RECEIVE JOY EVERY DAY OF YOUR LIFE"
by MJ RyanI really enjoy it:) Hope you will too!
Gal
> >Stacy,
> You seem to have so much to be thankful for. Sometimes we focus on what is so wrong with us, we forget about everything that we have. When I get like this, I make myself write up a gratitude list. It amazes me to think about all the things I take for granted. I know weight is important because it is to me too, but life is full of love and right now am have been totally depressed and I have to find time to make myself feel better. I also like helping others feel better. I helps me. I may lose my job. I just had a guy hit my car from behind today and my back hurts and I could go on and on. But you know what, I won't. I think that things will work themselves out and I will be okay. I have to have faith. Hang in there Stacy. The weight will come off eventually.
> Linda
>
> my weight loss has been so slow, I do appreciate it though don't get me wrong. I could never have lost an ounce without topamax I know that. But I only lose 5 pounds a month at the most. That gets very depressing seeing as I need to lose another 100 pounds. I have only lost about 45 or maybe 40 pounds pounds since last august. At that speed it will be years before I will ever get my figure back. I am insulin resistant also and bipolar. Great combination. some days my depression is so great I could cry all day if I gave in, but thank god I have a job and kids and a wonderful boyfriend that absolutely saves me. Otherwise who knows where I would be?! Well thank you for listening!
> > Stacy
>
>
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