Cognitive effects of low-dose topiramate monotherapy in epilepsy patients: A 1-year follow-up

Ho Won Lee, Doo Kyo Jung, Chung Kyu Suh, Soon Hak Kwon, Sung Pa Park

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

81 Scopus citations

Abstract

The present study was conducted to evaluate the long-term effects of low-dose topiramate (TPM) monotherapy on the cognitive function of epilepsy patients. Forty-seven epilepsy patients received TPM, with target doses of 50, 75, and 100 mg/day. Cognitive tests were performed twice, at baseline and 1 year after starting medication. Thirty-six patients completed the follow-up neuropsychological tests. After a year of treatment, 16 patients (44%) complained of cognitive problems. Although it improved seizure frequency and EEG abnormalities, TPM had significantly negative effects on the digit span and verbal fluency tests. These cognitive effects were dose-related and significantly improved after withdrawal from TPM and substitution with older antiepileptic drugs. In conclusion, even at a low dose, TPM has long-term, negative effects on working memory and verbal fluency.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)736-741
Number of pages6
JournalEpilepsy and Behavior
Volume8
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2006

Keywords

  • Adverse effects
  • Cognition
  • Epilepsy
  • Topiramate

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