Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. This is Topamax. This medicine helps control certain types of seizures. It has other uses too, like preventing migraine headaches. You should take Topamax exactly as your doctor tells you to. It is available in tablets and in sprinkle capsules. • The tablets must be swallowed whole. • The capsules should be opened and sprinkled onto a bite of soft food, like applesauce. Then, swallow the food without chewing it, and drink water. There are many common side effects that can happen. These include mild nausea, diarrhea, or a loss of appetite. Others include feeling a little nervous, tired, dizzy, or slow. You should wait until you know how it affects you before you do activities that require you to be alert, like driving. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. But, don't suddenly stop taking it, unless your doctor says it's okay. To help keep this medicine safe for you, you can take these 7 actions: • Read the medication guide to know what to watch for, and when to call your doctor • Don't drink alcohol • Always ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medicines • Avoid hot weather, because your body could overheat easier than before • Drink plenty of water to reduce the chance of getting kidney stones. • Pay attention for worsening moods or behaviors, or even thoughts of suicide. If these ever occur, call your doctor right away. • And lastly, women should not become pregnant or breastfeed, because this medicine is not safe for the baby. For best results with Topamax, read the Medication Guide, and ask a friend or family member to help watch for side effects.