Topiramate induced peripheral neuropathy: A case report and review of literature

Core Tip

Core tip: Peripheral neuropathy is a rare adverse effect of short- or long-term use of antiepileptic drugs (phenytoin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine, valproate, gabapentin, levetiracetam and lacosamide). This is the first case report of topiramate induced peripheral neuropathy (TIPN). Manifestations of TIPN are distal paresthesia, areflexia, sensory deficits and reduced amplitudes and nerve conduction velocities of motor and sensory peripheral nerves of the lower extremities indicating demyelinating and axonal neuropathies. The risk is greater with long-term therapy. The mechanisms of TIPN may involve impairment of nerve function through blocking of sodium voltage channels, enhancement of gamma amino butyric acid inhibitory neurotransmission or others.