Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 29, 2026

Non-restraining EEG Radiotelemetry: Epidural and Deep Intracerebral Stereotaxic EEG Electrode Placement
Published on: June 25, 2016
Acute topiramate toxicity
Stephen J Traub1, Mary Ann Howland, Robert S Hoffman
1The Division of Toxicology, Department of Emergency Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA. straub@bidmc.harvard.edu
Abstract:
Topiramate (Topamax) is an anti-epileptic medication for which acute toxicity is infrequently reported. A 5-yr-old girl, not previously taking topiramate, developed neurological symptoms after acute ingestion of this medication. She was intermittently agitated, complained of "not being able to feel anything," demonstrated arching movements of the back, and perseverated upon questioning. Computerized tomography of the head and electroencephalography were both normal, and urine toxicology testing for drugs of abuse was negative. A serum topiramate level was 10.5 mcg/mL, confirming the ingestion. The patient was observed for 24 h, over which time her symptoms completely resolved.
Related Concept Videos
Drug Toxicity: Dose-Dependent Reactions
Drug Toxicity: Overview
Antiepileptic Drugs: Glutamate Antagonists
Drug Toxicity: Risk factors
Antiepileptic Drugs: Potassium Channel Activators
Ezogabine has gained approval as an adjunctive treatment...
Toxic Reactions: Overview
Toxicity falls into two primary categories: local and systemic.
Local toxicity appears at the exposure site, such as protein denaturation caused by caustic substances.
In contrast, systemic toxicity requires the toxic agent's absorption and distribution,...

