Topamax, or topiramate, is a medication used to treat seizures, particularly those that arise as a result of epilepsy. While this medication is quite effective as an anticonvulsant, it has been linked to a number of side effects, including those that can damage babies born to women that took Topamax while pregnant. In particular, the primary danger of taking Topamax during pregnancy is that babies may develop a cleft lip or cleft palate.These defects result in either the appearance of a split lip, or, in the worst case, a hole in the roof of the mouth, which can prevent a baby from receiving nutrition adequately. As a result of inadequate nutrition, babies can subsequently have development issues that can include further health problems. The risk of babies getting cleft palate is supported by scientific research, and in March of 2011, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration sent out a warning to patients taking the medication.