Abstract
ABSTRACT A 42-year-old female patient with epilepsy and a co-morbid migraine suffered from the severe cognitive side effects of topiramate (TPM) for more than 16 years with detrimental consequences for her daily functioning, career, and social interaction. Even a prodromal stage of dementia was suggested, giving rise to fears of developing a neurodegenerative disease. Recently, cognitive monitoring of attention and executive function before and after withdrawal of TPM revealed a significant recovery from the severe negative cognitive side effects of the long-standing and inefficacious antiseizure medication (ASM). Whereas the side effects were reversible after cessation, their consequences for the patient`s biography were permanent. A considerable increase in quality of life, however, was observed without TPM and family members were impressed by the improvements. This case illustrates the potentially severe consequences of negative cognitive side effects which affect daily functioning, career and social life, thus underscoring the importance of being knowledgeable of the potential cognitive risks when prescribing an ASM. Because cognitive side effects may not depend solely on ASM choice and drug load, but also on individual idiosyncratic intolerances, and patients might stay on their treatment for many years, cognitive monitoring is highly recommended.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.