Evaluation of open-label topiramate for scar therapy

Abstract

A 3-month open-label pilot study was carried out to assess the safety, tolerability, and effect of the antiepilectic topiramate on the cosmetic appearance of scars. Ten adult subjects with discolored or raised scars at least 2 years old were given an oral dosage of 15 mg per day of topiramate for 1 month. The dosage was then increased to 30 mg per day if there was minimal or no improvement. The safety of topiramate was assessed in this study by reviewing adverse events and vital signs. Efficacy outcomes included a Clinician Global Impression Scale (CGI) to document changes such as thickness and color. Digital photos were taken with consistent variables. In addition, two independent medical reviewers blindly reviewed the photos. The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale was done at each visit to measure patients' levels of self-esteem. Side effects were generally mild with the most common being language problems (n = 3) and sleep disturbances (n = 3). All subjects completed the study and experienced at least minimal thinning and decreased coloration (usually redness) of their scars. Based on CGI-assessment data at 3 months, two subjects were very much improved, four were much improved, and four had minimal improvement. One independent medical reviewer arranged before and after treatment picture sets for ten out of ten subjects. The other independent medical reviewer arranged before and after treatment pictures sets for nine out of ten subjects (both p-values less than 0.025). The data indicate that topiramate may be a safe and effective treatment for scar therapy.