
Chronic Pain Support Group
Physicians and professionalsdefine pain as chronic if it lasts longer than three to six months and is persistent. It's distinct from acute pain that is a direct result of injury or trauma. This support group is dedicated to those suffering from chronic pain. Discuss treatments that have worked for you, find advice for your specific experience, and find support. You're not...
Deb
Side effects can be a real bitch. Make sure your doc increases your doses slowly. And if you start having eye pain or blurry vision, call your doctor to get off of it IMMEDIATELY. Topamax can cause increased pressure in the eye in some people, enough to cause permanent vision loss.
If the side effects of Topamax are too much for you, try Zonegran, which is in the same class as Topamax. It has also been shown to be effective against migraines and neuropathic pain, but generally has less abrupt side effects. (still has them, just not as horrible)
Ouch
My pain is mostly trigger point pain, with really tight muscles and lots of muscle spasm, and some joint pain. When it gets really bad, I think I get nerve-like pain that travels down my arm. I'd be willing to try anything that would help, but you're right it doesn't sound like it's for the specific pain that I have. I do not get migraines and I don't have seizures.
My opinion about meds being so expensive is that "BIG PHARMA is GREEDY!!!!
i take 75mg of topamax 2x/day for migraines, and it has helped me tremendously. my headaches were *much* more frequent before i started the topamax - it really helped. as far as myofascial pain syndrome , i don't know how helpful it would be, - but hopefully it will be just the thing you need!
if you have any other questions, please let me know - i'd be happy to answer them.
good luck, and feel better!
*misa*
For Jenny, depending on what state you live in, you might get some help w/paying for topamx through the state. First, I'd contact the manufacturer of this med to see if they offer any help. You might get it at a greatly reduced rate from them. Your pharmacy should be able to give you the name of the manufacturer.