Managing Trokendi XR's Adverse Effects: A Guide
Trokendi XR, a brand-name extended-release oral capsule, is used to treat certain seizures and prevent migraine symptoms. While it can be effective, long-term use of this medication may lead to several potential side effects, some of which can be serious.
One such side effect is metabolic acidosis, a condition characterized by abnormally low levels of bicarbonate in the blood. This condition was commonly reported in clinical trials of immediate-release topiramate, although it was usually mild to moderate. In rare cases, it was severe. Metabolic acidosis may not always present with symptoms, but when it does, they can include fatigue, loss of appetite, fast breathing, irregular heartbeat, and difficulty thinking clearly. If left untreated, metabolic acidosis can lead to weak or brittle bones and kidney stones, and in children, it can also slow growth.
Trokendi XR can also affect your ability to drive due to side effects such as sleepiness, fatigue, dizziness, difficulty remembering or concentrating, confusion, slowed reactions, and problems with coordination. It's important to be aware of these side effects and adjust your activities accordingly to ensure safety.
Another potential side effect is eye or vision problems, including blurry vision, double vision, partial loss of vision, and secondary angle-closure glaucoma. If you experience any changes in your vision while taking Trokendi XR, it's crucial to see your doctor right away.
Depression and suicidal thoughts or actions are also potential side effects of Trokendi XR. Symptoms of new or worsening depression may include feelings of sadness or hopelessness that don't go away, loss of interest in usual activities, trouble sleeping or sleeping too much, panic attacks or anxiety, agitation or restlessness, irritable, aggressive, or violent behaviour, other changes in your mood or behaviour, and thoughts of suicide or self-harm. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to seek immediate medical attention.
Trokendi XR can also cause hair loss or hair thinning in some people. Common side effects include paresthesia (tingling or burning sensations), loss of appetite, fatigue, difficulty remembering or concentrating, and weight loss. The side effects may vary based on the dose, and some side effects may be more common with higher doses.
It's important to note that while there are no known long-term side effects of Trokendi XR, some serious side effects could lead to long-term problems if not treated. Regular medical evaluation is crucial during chronic therapy to monitor for cognitive and mood changes, visual symptoms, kidney function, acid-base balance, and hydration to mitigate risks associated with metabolic acidosis and kidney stones.
To minimise these side effects, it's advised to avoid alcohol as it can increase the severity of sleepiness and dizziness.
[1] DrugBank Online: Trokendi XR - https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB11861 [2] The American Journal of Medicine: Topiramate-induced metabolic acidosis in a patient with renal tubular acidosis - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2744723/ [3] Epilepsy Foundation: Topiramate - https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/treating-seizures-and-epilepsy/epilepsy-drugs/topiramate-topamax
- Science and medical studies have shown that long-term use of Trokendi XR, a medication used for certain seizures and migraines, may lead to serious side effects like metabolic acidosis, affecting one's ability to drive, eye or vision problems, depression, suicidal thoughts, and hair loss.
- Metabolic acidosis, occasionally accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, fast breathing, irregular heartbeat, and difficulty thinking clearly, can result in long-term complications including weak or brittle bones, kidney stones, and slow growth in children.
- Due to potential side effects like sleepiness, fatigue, dizziness, and problems with coordination, one should be cautious while driving or operating heavy machinery when taking Trokendi XR.
- Eye or vision problems, including blurry vision, double vision, partial loss of vision, and secondary angle-closure glaucoma, may occur with Trokendi XR, making it essential to consult a doctor immediately if experiencing any changes in vision.
- Depression and suicidal thoughts or actions are severe side effects of Trokendi XR, and symptoms like feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and changes in mood or behaviour require immediate medical attention.
- Nutrition, skin care, mental health, fitness and exercise, and overall health and wellness are important aspects to consider when managing side effects, as alcohol consumption can increase the severity of sleepiness and dizziness associated with Trokendi XR.
