With the obesity epidemic sweeping the world, it’s no wonder that many different companies have already come up with their own weight loss drugs. One of these is the newly-approved Qsymia. How effective is Qsymia and can you lose a significant amount of weight?
What Is It?
Qsymia, formerly known as Qnexa, is drug that combines two active ingredients that are meant to treat obesity, as well as related medical conditions that aggravate obesity, such as type 2 diabetes. It can also be used to decrease blood pressure and lower the levels of cholesterol in the blood.
Manufacturer
Qsymia is the product of research and development by California-based pharmaceutical company Vivus.
Active Ingredients
Qsymia contains phentermine and topiramate as active ingredients working together for weight loss. Phentermine belongs to a class of phenethylamines and amphetamines, and works to suppress the appetite. Topiramate, on the other hand, is an anticonvulsant drug that also has weight loss as one of its side effects.
FDA Approval
Vivus first submitted application for Qsymia, then known as Qnexa, in 2009. The approval was declined in late 2010 because of concerns that the drug might have potentially lethal side effects, including palpitations, birth defects, lapses in memory, and even suicidal thoughts. After further studies and a name change, Qsymia was resubmitted.
Qsymia was approved early in 2012 by U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisors, who recommended that the drug be adopted as a treatment for obesity by the FDA. The FDA nevertheless recommends monitoring of all patients who take the drug for any side effects that might not have been detected in laboratory tests, such as cardiovascular risks. The drug also has not been tested for use by pregnant or nursing mothers, and the FDA recommends post-market monitoring for this potential risk.
In mid-2012, the FDA handed down its final approval for Qsymia, which is recommended for use with a low-calorie diet and a strict exercise regimen.
Results
When used with a combination of a low-calorie diet and a lot of exercise, Qsymia can allow for a loss of as much as 8.9% of a person’s body weight in one year, according to one study.
Side Effects
Aside from the concerns already aired by the FDA, there is also a possibility of
developing glaucoma as a result of taking Qsymia. Vivus, however, claims that these are very rare side effects. Common side effects might include tingling in the extremities, trouble sleeping, dizziness or nausea, a change in tastes, dry mouth, or constipation. Because Qsymia can lower blood sugar levels, those who are being treated for type 2 diabetes are at risk for even lower blood sugar levels.
Cost
At present, Qsymia is available only through mail-order pharmacies that are part of the Qsymia network. This includes Walgreens and CVS. These pharmacies should receive prescription from a doctor before they can mail out Qsymia. The official Qsymia website also has a free 14-day trial offer, but the offer can only be obtained through the accredited pharmacies, and with a prescription.
Prices vary depending on the dosage recommended, with the lowest dose at $120 a month.
