Topiramate effectiveness in Prader-Willi syndrome

Prader-Willi syndrome is a neurologic disorder caused by a mutation on chromosome 15. It is characterized by short stature, obesity, mild-to-moderate mental retardation, and multiple behavior problems including mood, self-abusive behavior, and compulsive-eating disorder. These behaviors have detrimental effects on the mental and physical health of patients with Prader-Willi syndrome. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a new antiepileptic medication, topiramate, on behavior, mood, and compulsive-eating disorder associated with Prader-Willi syndrome. Recent studies have indicated that topiramate affects behavior, as well as reducing appetite and weight in some patients. We evaluated seven patients with Prader-Willi syndrome and determined that, in these patients, topiramate appeared to have a positive effect on reducing self-abusive behavior, improving mood, and stabilizing weight.