The FDA has been very cautious in approving new weight loss medications to protect the public from dangerous weight loss products. In fact, there were previous weight loss combo-drugs that were pulled out from the market because of their undesirable side effects. One example is FenPhen, a combination of Fenfluramine and Phentermine. Another one is Dexfenfluramine. These drugs caused valvular heart disease and other serious side effects. Meridia was also removed from the market because it can increase the risks of heart attacks and stroke.

But some pharmaceutical companies did not stop in finding new drugs that can effectively treat obesity. Vivus Pharmaceuticals, the maker of Qsymia, was able to get the approval of FDA after conducting clinical trials and complying with the requirements of the agency. Since the drug is approved by the said regulatory body, it means that Qsymia has proven its capability to treat overweight and obese patients.

Read on and find out if Qsymia is the right drug that can help in your weight loss regimen.

Knowing Qsymia’s Composition

Qsymia is classified as a CIV drug and intended for long-term obesity treatment. It is recommended for people with a BMI of 27 or greater (overweight) and 30 and above (obese). It is a combo-drug that contains Phentermine, an appetite suppressant drug and Topiramate, a medicine used to treat seizure and migraine.

These are the active ingredients of Qsymia:

• Phentermine. This appetite suppressant drug has been in the market for decades already. Its main function is to trigger the release of a certain brain chemical that controls appetite. It also provides additional energy that helps users burn more calories. Phentermine is commonly prescribed for short-term obesity treatment.

• Topiramate. Though this drug’s original function is to treat seizure and migraine, it has also shown qualities that can help in weight loss. It is known to increase the feeling of fullness and makes food taste less appealing. It also helps improve metabolism.

The Right Dosage for Your Weight Loss Needs

Qsymia is available in different dosages to address the specific needs of obese patients. Your doctor will determine the right dose to ensure minimal adverse reactions and obtain maximum weight loss effects. However, if there is no notable positive effects after 12 weeks of medication, you doctor should adjust the dosage and reassess the treatment. It is best to stop taking Qsymia if the patient is not responding to the treatment as it may result to other serious medical complications that may endanger his or her life.

Here are the different options if you choose Qsymia for your weight loss treatment:

Treatment/ Dosage

starting dose – 3.15 mg/23 mg
recommended dose – 7.5 mg/46 mg
titration – 11.25 mg/ 69 mg
maximum dose – 15 mg/92 mg

Average Weight Loss When Taking Qsymia

According to Qsymia’s website, the user’s average weight loss ranges from 22-28 pounds after a year of treatment. However, the amount varies and depends on a lot of factors. There are some people who have achieved dramatic weight loss when treated with this drug while others just get minimal results.

Is Qsymia the Answer to Your Weight Problems?

Qsymia is one of the many weight loss drugs used to treat obesity. Since its introduction in the market in 2012, it has proven its capability to maintain and reduce the weight of most overweight and obese people. For many obese patients who have enjoyed the weight loss benefits of the drug, Qsymia is the answer to their weight-related problems.

But if you haven’t tried this weight loss drug, it is still better to ask the advice of your health care professional. He or she can determine if Qsymia is the right medication for your medical problem. You have to take note that the drug can cause mild to serious side effects. These may include dizziness, increased heart rate, depression, low blood sugar, and birth defects. The manufacturer warns that the drug can cause seizures when stopped abruptly. Always ask the guidance of your doctor when taking Qsymia.