South African Journal of Psychiatry (Jun 2008)

Psychiatric uses of topiramate: What is the current evidence?

  • Pierre M Joubert

DOI
https://doi.org/10.4102/sajpsychiatry.v14i2.157
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 14, no. 2

Abstract

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Topiramate enhances gamma-amino-butyric acid effects, has anti- glutaminergic effects, and is a state-dependent sodium channel blocker. 1 It is registered as an adjunctive treatment for epilepsy but is not registered for psychiatric indications. Nevertheless, it may be useful beyond its initial indication, considering the promising literature on which I report below. However, much more research evidence is needed to establish sufficient scientific justification for prescribing it routinely for psychiatric purposes.