● Brandname:
Qsymia®
● Generic:
phentermine/topiramate
● Uses:
Weight management in adults with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30
kg/m2 or greater than 27 kg/m2
in combination with one of the following conditions: high blood pressure, Type
II Diabetes Mellitus, high cholesterol
● How
it works: Decreases appetite and increases feeling of being full
● Common
Side effects: Increased heart rate, dry mouth, upper respiratory infection,
constipation,
insomnia, change in taste sense, dizziness, skin tingling
● Serious
Side effects: seizure, suicidal behavior, decreased sweating
● Who
cannot take this medication: people already on MAOI therapy (i.e.
Phenelzine,
Tranylcypromine,
Isocarboxazid, Selegiline) or within 14 days of stopping of MAOI
medication, glaucoma, allergic reaction to
sympathomimetic amines (i.e. epinephrine, dopamine), overactive thyroid,
pregnancy
