Concerns about Topamax and Uric Acid

A new study suggests that people taking Topamax (topiramate) for migraine may have increased levels of uric acid.  What does that mean?

What’s Uric Acid?

Let’s back up a bit.  It’s actually normal to have uric acid in your body.  It’s simply a waste product that comes from food, that usually dissolves in your blood and leaves the body in urine.  But problems come when your body starts producing too much, or getting rid of too little.  High levels of uric acid in the blood is the result – this is called hyperuricemia.

Too much Uric Acid

Too much uric acid in the blood can be caused by many things – obesity, certain foods ("purine-rich" foods like sardines, gravy, beer and liver), certain diseases and certain medications.

The result can be conditions like gout, uric acid stones in the urinary tract, and buildups of uric acid in other parts of the body.

Where does Topamax fit in?

This was a small study of 97 patients, 53 who had migraine and who took topiramate.  The migraineurs had significantly higher levels of uric acid.

I take Topamax – why should I care?

Every medication we take is a balance against pros and cons.  This small study is not a reason to panic, but it is something worth talking to your doctor about, especially if you have a history of problems related to uric acid.

It’s also another indication that more studies need to be done on Topamax.  It has been a help to many migraineurs, but we do need to be aware of the risks.

Read more:  Topamax may cause language disturbances, Topamax for children?, and The Topamax migraine solution