Why is this medication prescribed?

Qsymia is a prescription medication used for weight management in adults who are overweight or obese. Qsymia is typically prescribed when diet and exercise alone have not been sufficient for weight loss. Qsymia is a combination of two active ingredients: phentermine and topiramate.

• Phentermine: Phentermine is an appetite suppressant that affects the central nervous system, reducing appetite and increasing the feeling of fullness.
• Topiramate: Topiramate is an anticonvulsant that has been found to have weight loss effects. The exact mechanism by which topiramate contributes to weight loss is not well understood.

How should this medicine be used?

It’s important to note that the specific instructions for using Qsymia can vary based on individual circumstances. Therefore, it’s crucial to follow the prescribing doctor’s instructions and read the medication guide provided with the prescription. However, here are some general guidelines:

• Dosage: Qsymia is usually started at a low dose and gradually increased to minimize side effects. The typical starting dose contains 3.75 mg of phentermine and 23 mg of topiramate extended-release. The dosage may be increased at specific intervals based on the response to treatment.
• Administration: Qsymia is usually taken once daily in the morning with or without food. It should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or divided.
• Regular Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments with the prescribing healthcare provider are essential to monitor progress, discuss any side effects, and make adjustments to the dosage if necessary.
• Lifestyle Changes: Qsymia is typically prescribed as part of a comprehensive weight management plan that includes a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
• Discontinuation: Qsymia should not be stopped abruptly without consulting the healthcare provider. A gradual tapering of the dose may be necessary.

It’s important to be aware that Qsymia is not suitable for everyone, and its use involves potential risks and benefits. Before prescribing Qsymia, healthcare providers consider factors such as the individual’s overall health, medical history, and the potential for side effects. If you have questions or concerns about Qsymia, it’s crucial to discuss them with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Other uses for this medicine

Qsymia is specifically approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use as a prescription medication to assist with weight management in adults who are obese or overweight. Its active ingredients, phentermine and topiramate, work together to reduce appetite and promote weight loss. There were no other FDA-approved uses for Qsymia.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Qsymia, it’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions closely and be aware of special precautions associated with the medication. Here are some general precautions:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Qsymia may cause harm to an unborn baby. Therefore, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The risks and benefits of Qsymia during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be carefully considered.
• Medical Conditions: Before starting Qsymia, inform your healthcare provider about your medical history, especially if you have a history of heart problems, stroke, glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, kidney stones, or if you are taking medications for depression or migraines. Qsymia may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions.
• Allergies: If you are allergic to phentermine, topiramate, or any other ingredients in Qsymia, you should not use the medication.
• Alcohol: Qsymia may increase the risk of certain side effects, such as dizziness, when combined with alcohol. It’s important to discuss alcohol consumption with your healthcare provider.
• Driving and Machinery: Qsymia may cause dizziness or impair concentration. It’s advisable to avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how Qsymia affects you.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products, that you are taking. Qsymia may interact with certain medications, affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice based on your health history and current medications. Additionally, it’s important to keep regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress, discuss any side effects, and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special Dietary Instructions:

• Reduced-Calorie Diet: Qsymia is typically prescribed as part of a comprehensive weight management plan that includes a reduced-calorie diet. Follow your healthcare provider’s dietary recommendations closely.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay well-hydrated, as dehydration can increase the risk of kidney stones.
• Meal Timing: Take Qsymia in the morning with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Qsymia, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time of your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed dose.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Qsymia, like any medication, can cause side effects. It’s important to be aware of potential side effects and to promptly inform your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual or severe symptoms.

Common side effects of Qsymia include:

• Paraesthesia (tingling or numbness in the hands, feet, or face)
• Dizziness
• Disturbance in attention or memory problems
• Insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Dysgeusia (altered taste sensation)
• Depression or mood changes
• Increased heart rate

These side effects are not exhaustive, and individuals may experience them to varying degrees. Additionally, more serious side effects can occur, and these may require immediate medical attention.

Serious side effects may include:

• Increased heart rate and palpitations
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Eye problems (such as glaucoma or increased pressure in the eyes)
• Kidney stones
• Decreased sweating, leading to an increase in body temperature

It’s important to note that the combination of phentermine and topiramate in Qsymia may have effects on the central nervous system and cardiovascular system, and therefore, it is not recommended for individuals with certain pre-existing conditions, such as heart problems.

Patients should be monitored regularly by their healthcare provider, especially during the early stages of treatment, to assess the response to the medication and to manage any side effects. Qsymia should not be discontinued abruptly without consulting with a healthcare professional.

As medications can affect individuals differently, it’s important to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your medical history, any other medications you are taking, and any side effects you may be experiencing. This allows your healthcare provider to make informed decisions about your treatment and, if necessary, make adjustments to minimize side effects.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Keep Qsymia in its original container, tightly closed, and away from moisture and heat. Store it at room temperature, and do not expose it to extreme temperatures.
• Disposal: Dispose of Qsymia as directed by your healthcare provider or according to local regulations. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Proper disposal helps prevent environmental contamination and accidental ingestion by others.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an overdose or emergency, seek medical attention immediately. Overdose symptoms may include restlessness, tremor, rapid breathing, confusion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Instructions: Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for taking Qsymia. Do not change your dose or stop taking the medication without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Regular Check-ups: Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress, discuss any concerns or side effects, and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products, that you are taking. Qsymia may interact with other medications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of Qsymia with your healthcare provider.
• Alcohol: Limit alcohol intake while taking Qsymia, as it may increase the risk of certain side effects, such as dizziness.
• Driving and Machinery: Qsymia may cause dizziness or impair concentration. Avoid activities that require alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
• Allergic Reactions: If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions, especially heart problems, kidney stones, glaucoma, or any history of mental health conditions.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and information based on your specific health situation. If you have any concerns or questions about Qsymia, do not hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider.