Most people who take pain medicines as prescribed by their doctor don't develop pain medication addiction. But some do become addicted. People more likely to become addicted to narcotics include those who have been addicted to other substances in the past or who have a family history of addiction.

Signs of addiction include:

Loss of control over medication use
More frequent use of the medication per day
Taking medication for other reasons besides pain, such as when depressed
Taking medication that was prescribed for another person

What to Do If You Suspect Addiction?

If you think you or someone you love may have a problem with addiction, talk to your doctor about your concerns.

Addiction Can Be Overcome

Getting past painkiller abuse requires a doctor's supervision and may involve a detox program. Once the addicted person has completed addiction detox and therapy, the persons family, friends and doctors all must work together to recognize signs of relapse. Participating in a relapse support group and a 12-step drug-dependency program can help people stay on track.

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Pain Management Department.

WebMD Medical Reference provided in collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic

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Edited by Ephraim K Brenman, DO on March 01, 2007

'Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2005

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Learn How TOPAMAX Can Help from Patients Who Have Been There

Important Safety Information | Prescribing Information

TOPAMAX is approved for migraine prevention in adults only.
TOPAMAX is not used to stop a migraine after it starts.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Serious risks associated with TOPAMAX include lowered bicarbonate levels in the blood resulting in an increase in the acidity of the blood (metabolic acidosis). Symptoms could include hyperventilation (rapid, deep breathing), tiredness, loss of appetite, irregular heartbeat or changes in the level of alertness. Call your doctor immediately if you get these symptoms. Your doctor may want to do simple blood tests. Chronic, untreated metabolic acidosis may increase the risk for kidney stones or bone disease.

Other serious risks include decreased sweating, increased body temperature, kidney stones, sleepiness, dizziness, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and increased eye pressure (glaucoma). Call your doctor immediately if you have any decrease in vision or eye pain. These problems can lead to blindness if not treated right away.

More common side effects are tingling in arms and legs, loss of appetite, tiredness, nausea, diarrhea, taste change and weight loss.

Tell your doctor about other medications you take. Please see full U.S. Prescribing Information.

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