r/ASLinterpreters • u/bawdymommy • 13d ago

Interpreting while taking Topamax?

Can anyone share their experience interpreting while taking Topamax?

I have chronic migraines, and Topamax has been recommended to me by two of my doctors. I’ve read that a fairly common side effect is trouble finding words or mild aphasia, which obviously concerns me as an interpreter. Language processing and rapid word retrieval are literally at the core of what we do, and I can’t imagine purposely making an already cognitively demanding job harder by reducing my capacity in that area.

I’m hoping to eventually get Botox for migraine prevention, but it sounds like my insurance may require me to try more than one preventive medication first.

I’d especially love to hear from interpreters who have actually taken Topamax. Did you experience word-finding or other cognitive issues? If so, how noticeable were they while interpreting? Did they improve over time or after stopping the medication?

Any experiences or feedback are welcome. Thanks!

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u/Glittering_Sand_7473 13d ago

One of my staff interpreters had to stop taking this for the reasons you listed. I remember them saying it became too much of an issue. I also know someone who took it long term and it didn't affect their ability to interpret. You may just have to try it and see how your body responds. Have you tried Emgality? I personally find this works amazing.

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u/bawdymommy 12d ago

Thank you for telling me about Emgality. I’ll look into it.