Compare Topamax vs. Oxybutynin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

ADVERTISEMENT

Topamax (topiramate)

Prescription only

Oxytrol (Oxybutynin)

Prescription only
Prevents seizures and migraine headaches.

Topamax (topiramate) is very effective at preventing many types of seizures and migraines, but it can cause several severe side effects that can lead to stopping the medication.

●●●●●
3.3/ 5 average rating with 56 reviewsforTopamax
Treats an overactive bladder.

Oxytrol (Oxybutynin) is a good treatment for overactive bladder, but watch out for side effects such as dry mouth and constipation.

Upsides
  • Can lower your number of seizures and also prevent migraine headaches. This medicine can be used on its own or with other antiepileptic medicines to lower the frequency of seizures.
  • Doesn't need routine blood tests like similar medications.
  • Available in short-acting and long-acting forms.
  • Comes as a generic, so it's relatively cheap.
  • Oxytrol (Oxybutynin) is effective at treating overactive bladder by lowering the urge to urinate, and helping to better control urination.
  • Available in multiple forms: a patch, gel, extended-release tablet, and tablet.
  • The gel form of Oxytrol (Oxybutynin) is available over the counter without a prescription.
  • Oxytrol (Oxybutynin) patch and gel have fewer side effects than taking the tablet.
  • The tablet is available as a generic.
Downsides
  • Can cause many severe side effects. People starting Topamax (topiramate) need to be monitored for these effects as soon as they start treatment.
  • This medicine can take 4 to 6 weeks for the full effects of this medication to kick in, especially for people taking it for migraines.
  • Children taking Topamax (topiramate) for long periods of time need to have their dose adjusted by their pediatrician as they grow.
  • At higher doses (ie. 400 mg/day), children may experience difficulty with concentration/attention, fever, flushing, and confusion.
  • Generally not recommended to use in people ages 65 and older since it can cause drowsiness and increase the risk of falls.
  • Can’t be used if you have uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma.
  • Not recommended if you have ulcerative colitis or certain other stomach problems since Oxytrol (Oxybutynin) can slow stomach emptying.
  • Not the best choice if you have GERD (acid reflux), since Oxytrol (Oxybutynin) can irritate your throat and make the acid reflux worse.
  • Has more side effects than newer medicines that treat overactive bladder.
ADVERTISEMENT
Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Extended release capsule
  • Pill
  • Extended release
  • Liquid
  • Cream, gel, or ointment
  • Patch
Price
Lowest price
$216.46
Find instant savings near you
Lowest price
$26.72
Find instant savings near you
Want to save even more money?
Sign up now for a 30-day trial and save up to 95% at CVS, Kroger, Albertsons, and other pharmacies.
Learn more
Reviews
56 reviews so far
52%
saidit'sworth it
50%
saiditworked well
36%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Topamax (topiramate)?

Leave a review
Not enough review data.Leave a review
Side effects
39possible side effects
  • Sleepiness
    26%
  • Loss of appetite
    24%
  • Fatigue
    16%
  • Injury
    14%
  • Nervousness
    14%
  • Personality disorder (behavior problems)
    11%
  • Difficulty with concentration/attention
    10%
  • Weight loss
    9%
  • Aggressive reaction
    9%
  • Abnormal gait
    8%
  • Purpura
    8%
  • Difficulty sleeping
    8%
  • Viral infection
    7%
  • Impaired coordination
    6%
  • Nausea
    6%
  • Increased saliva
    6%
  • Muscle spasm
    5%
  • Constipation
    5%
  • Difficulty with memory
    5%
  • Pneumonia
    5%
  • Dizziness
    4%
  • Speech disorders/ related speech problems
    4%
  • Nose bleed
    4%
  • Confusion
    4%
  • Urinary incontinence
    4%
  • Stomach flu
    3%
  • Psychomotor slowing
    3%
  • Skin disorder
    3%
  • Allergic reaction
    2%
  • Abnormal reflexes
    2%
  • Thirst
    2%
  • Pussing
    2%
  • Hair loss
    2%
  • Dermatitis
    2%
  • Increased hair growth
    2%
  • Red skin rash
    2%
  • Eye abnormality
    2%
  • Abnormal vision
    2%
  • Leukopenia
    2%
See more detailed side effects
The Oxytrol (Oxybutynin) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
Risks and risk factors
  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior
    • History of depression
  • Fever and inability to sweat
    • Children
  • Mental and cognitive changes
    • History of metabolic disorders
    • People also taking Depakote
  • Kidney stones
    • Low-carb diet
    • Dehydration
    • Drug interactions
  • Vision problems
  • Withdrawal seizures
    • Stopping Topamax (topiramate) suddenly
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Unusual tongue swelling
  • Driving impairment
    • Taking with alcohol
    • Taking other medicines that make you less alert
  • Heat exhaustion
    • Outside in hot weather
    • Dehydrated
    • Exercising
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Topamax (topiramate)
Learn more about Oxytrol (Oxybutynin)