Topiramate-induced acute onset myopia: a case report

BACKGROUND: Topiramate is a drug which emerged from its anticonvulsant properties and now over the years is used for a wider range of indications, including migraine prophylaxis. We described a very rare case of topiramate induced acute onset myopia during use for migraine. It is the first reported case of its kind from Sri Lanka with only a handful of reported cases in world literature. CASE PRESENTATION: A 35-year-old Sri Lankan female presented with long standing history of intermittent headache with recent worsening. A diagnosis of migraine was made and due to poor response to other medication was initiated on topiramate. Two weeks later patient developed visual impairment which was finally attributed to topiramate. Following discontinuation of the drug, within 3 days the symptoms started to improve with full recovery in 10 days. CONCLUSION: All clinicians should be aware of the potential ocular side effects of topiramate. Although relatively rare, prompt recognition is key to appropriate management.