Efficacy of topiramate (Topamax) in epileptic patients of different ages.

The aim of the present work was to assess the efficacy and tolerance of topiramate (Topamax) in patients of different ages with different types of epilepsy. This agent was used as monotherapy and combined therapy in 114 patients (53 male, 61 female) of the following age groups: early childhood (16), preschool and school age (20), pubertal (16), young (23), adult (38), and elderly (1). Treatment produced complete clinical remission in 48% of patients and decreases in fit frequency by more than 50% in 44% of patients. In terms of remission, Topamax was more effective in adolescents, youths and adults than in younger children, and this pattern was also seen in the treatment of symptomatic epilepsy. Tolerance was good in patients of all groups, and cases of side effects (weight loss, irritability, allergic skin reactions, paresthesia) were occasional.