Impact of topiramate migraine prophylaxis on workplace productivity: Results from two US randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trials

OBJECTIVE: We conducted this study to determine whether topiramate at 100 mg/d for the treatment of migraine headache is associated with improved productivity in the workplace. METHODS: Results were derived from two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials among migraineurs. The number of hours of absenteeism (A), presenteeism (P), and total lost productivity (TLP) (A + P) were calculated. Results were not adjusted for multiplicity. RESULTS: A total of 325 (162 in the topiramate group and 163 in the placebo group) of 449 subjects were included. Per person mean monthly A rate was only significantly less for individuals within the topiramate group (1.0 hours per person) versus those in the placebo group (1.5 hours per person) for month 3 (P < 0.05). Per person mean P and TLP rates were significantly lower for individuals in the topiramate group versus those in the placebo group for months 1 through 5 (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest that topiramate, compared with placebo, is associated with decreased workplace presenteeism and TLP.