I was prescribed Topamax last year for severe headaches caused by HTN and a small interior carotid aneursym, like you beginning with 25mg, increased to 100 over time. one of the side effects can be kidney stones. it didn't deter me from drinking at all, but I did experience massive hair shedding.
interestingly enough, topamax is part of the mix for a new weight loss drug awaiting FDA approval....Qnexa.