{"id":631583,"date":"2025-03-10T16:27:03","date_gmt":"2025-03-10T20:27:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=631583"},"modified":"2025-03-10T16:28:06","modified_gmt":"2025-03-10T20:28:06","slug":"qsymia-side-effects","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/qsymia-side-effects\/","title":{"rendered":"Qsymia side effects and how to avoid them"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Manufactured by Vivus, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/qsymia\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Qsymia<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is an oral medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for weight loss in people ages 12 and older. Each extended-release capsule contains a combination of phentermine and topiramate. Phentermine is a Schedule IV controlled substance that acts as an appetite suppressant. Topiramate is normally used as an anti-epileptic and mood stabilizer, but it may also reduce binge eating and fat storage. Qsymia is associated with potentially serious side effects, including birth defects, heart problems, dependency, and more.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"common-side-effects-of-qsymia\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common side effects of Qsymia<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to clinical research, the most <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/dailymed.nlm.nih.gov\/dailymed\/drugInfo.cfm?setid=40dd5602-53da-45ac-bb4b-15789aba40f9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">common side effects of Qsymia<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> were constipation, dry mouth, a tingling feeling in the skin, upper respiratory infections, and headaches.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other common Qsymia side effects in adults include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Insomnia<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dizziness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Loss of or changes in taste<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common Qsymia side effects noted in children 12 and older include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depression<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fever<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Flu-like symptoms<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Joint pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sprains<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dizziness\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"serious-side-effects-of-qsymia\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Serious side effects of Qsymia<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Serious side effects of Qsymia may include:<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Birth defects<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Suicidal thoughts or actions<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eye problems, including a sudden loss of vision<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An eye condition called secondary angle closure glaucoma<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kidney stones and other kidney problems, which may present as severe back pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Problems with concentration, memory, and speech<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slow growth in children 12 and older<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increased acid in the bloodstream (metabolic acidosis)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increased ammonia in the bloodstream<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low potassium (hypokalemia)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depression, anxiety, irritability, or other mood changes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trouble sleeping<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fever\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Decreased sweating in hot weather<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Serious skin reactions, including a potentially fatal condition marked by rashes and blisters (toxic epidermal necrolysis)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allergic reactions<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fragile bones<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seizures from stopping Qsymia too fast<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increased heart rate<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"how-soon-do-qsymia-side-effects-start\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How soon do Qsymia side effects start?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.radianthealthdallas.com\/dr-richa-mittal.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Richa Mittal, MD<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, says people typically don\u2019t notice Qsymia side effects after a single dose. Instead, expect side effects to crop up after at least a week. \u201cSide effects can often be dose-dependent, so they may not occur on one dose but will occur on another,\u201d she says.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"how-long-do-qsymia-side-effects-last\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How long do Qsymia side effects last?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although some Qsymia side effects can be unsettling at first, they may be temporary. \u201cSome Qsymia side effects, particularly the mild ones like tingling or dry mouth, may lessen or even go away as the body gets used to the medication over time,\u201d says <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/medvidi.com\/blog\/author\/dr-michael-chichak\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Michael Chichak, MD<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">He recommends talking to your healthcare provider about any side effects that cause significant discomfort or are severe or persistent. Your healthcare provider may adjust the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/qsymia\/dosage\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dose of Qsymia<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or consider alternative weight loss treatments.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"what-are-the-long-term-side-effects-of-qsymia\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What are the long-term side effects of Qsymia?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long-term use of Qsymia could increase the risk of some side effects. \u201cTopiramate has been linked with a higher danger of memory problems, attention deficit, and other cognitive defects in the long run,\u201d Dr. Chichak says. He also warns that kidney stones may develop over time as a result of Qsymia, as could a fast heartbeat.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another long-term concern is the development of metabolic acidosis, which can increase the risk of kidney disease, osteoporosis, confusion, rapid breathing, and death. In <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC3626409\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">clinical trials<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, 30% of those who received the maximum dose of Qsymia had metabolic acidosis after one year, compared to just 6% in the placebo group.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, Dr. Mittal says Qsymia\u2019s negative impact on the kidneys is rarely permanent, and kidney function should improve after the medicine is discontinued. The same goes for eye pain or vision changes. However, seizures can occur if Qsymia is suddenly stopped, so don\u2019t try to discontinue it without medical guidance.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"qsymia-drug-interactions\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Qsymia drug interactions<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People who take the following medication should discuss the increased risk of side effects with their healthcare provider before starting Qsymia:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Taking Qsymia with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/maois\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">MAOIs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> increases the risk of dangerously high blood pressure.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs): <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spotting may occur when using Qsymia alongside birth control pills, vaginal rings, and patches that contain estrogen and progestin.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Central nervous system (CNS) depressants:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Qsymia may increase the effect of CNS depressants like alcohol, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and sleep medications, potentially leading to dizziness, poor cognition, and other adverse side effects.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Non-potassium-sparing diuretics:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Qsymia may increase the risk of low potassium when taken with these medications.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Antiepileptic drugs: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Taking phenytoin or carbamazepine with Qsymia may decrease the effectiveness of topiramate (one of the active ingredients in Qsymia). In addition, people who take valproic acid with Qsymia may experience an increased risk of hypothermia and high ammonia levels in the blood.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Using Qsymia with acetazolamide (generic Diamox) or similar drugs can increase the risk of kidney stones and metabolic acidosis.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Pioglitazone: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Qsymia may decrease the effectiveness of this diabetes medication, causing high blood sugar.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Amitriptyline:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Qsymia may increase the concentration of amitriptyline in the body, so healthcare providers may prescribe a lower dose of this antidepressant.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 id=\"qsymia-and-alcohol\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Qsymia and alcohol<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do not drink alcohol while taking Qsymia. Alcohol may interact with the ingredients in Qsymia and cause an increased risk of drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, poor cognition, and poor coordination. Similar risks are associated with using other CNS depressants, such as barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and sleep medications while taking Qsymia.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"safety-measures-while-using-qsymia\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Safety measures while using Qsymia<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Qsymia shouldn\u2019t be taken by people who:<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have glaucoma<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have an overactive thyroid<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have cardiovascular disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are on dialysis<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have a history of suicidality<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have a history of substance misuse or dependency<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take MAOIs or have taken them in the last 14 days<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are allergic to aspirin or FD&amp;C Yellow No. 5 (tartrazine)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are allergic to phentermine or topiramate<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are under the age of 12<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Qsymia isn\u2019t recommended for people who are breastfeeding because an increased risk of diarrhea and sleepiness <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK501259\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">has been reported<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in breastfed infants whose mothers used topiramate, one of the active ingredients in Qsymia.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition, Qsymia may worsen certain conditions, including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kidney disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liver problems<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/epilepsy-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Epilepsy<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metabolic acidosis<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/depression-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depression<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and other mood disorders<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Insomnia<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Glaucoma<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Qsymia does not have an FDA black box warning. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you take, including vitamins and natural supplements, so they can determine whether Qsymia is safe for you.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"dependence-risk\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dependence risk<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Phentermine, one of the active ingredients in Qsymia, is a Schedule IV <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/controlled-substances-act\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">controlled substance <\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">with a low risk of chemical dependence and abuse. It\u2019s a sympathomimetic amine like amphetamine and pseudoephedrine, which means it\u2019s capable of stimulating the sympathetic nervous system and potentially causing an adrenaline rush. This makes it a potential target for abuse, but <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/23736363\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dependence is unlikely<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> when phentermine is used for weight loss under the guidance of a healthcare provider.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People who experience phentermine dependence while using Qsymia may feel depressed and extremely fatigued if the medication is suddenly stopped.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Topiramate, the other active ingredient in Qsymia, is not known to be habit-forming, but it\u2019s associated with an increased risk of seizures when suddenly stopped. For those who want to stop using Qsymia, a healthcare provider can gradually lower the dose to reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms and convulsions.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"overdose-warning\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Overdose warning<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Death may occur if too much Qsymia is ingested, so it\u2019s crucial to take it exactly as prescribed. Do not take more than 15 mg\/92 mg phentermine\/topiramate per day. Signs of a Qsymia overdose may include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aggression<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hallucination<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Restlessness that may be followed by fatigue<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Panic<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Confusion<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Personality changes\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Schizophrenia-like symptoms<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depression<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tremor<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rapid breathing<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Blurred vision or seeing double<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dizziness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Low or high blood pressure<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vomiting\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diarrhea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abdominal cramps<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seizures<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coma<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A Qsymia overdose requires immediate medical attention. Call 911 or Poison Control (800-222-1222) for emergency medical advice. You may need to induce vomiting or wait for medical personnel to pump the stomach.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"how-to-avoid-qsymia-side-effects\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to avoid Qsymia side effects<\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Avoid pregnancy. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Because Qsymia increases the risk of birth defects like cleft palate, people who can become pregnant should use contraceptives and confirm a negative pregnancy test each month. Immediately contact your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking Qsymia.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Do not stop Qsymia cold turkey. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abruptly discontinuing Qsymia could cause seizures, even in people who have never had a seizure. Set refill reminders to avoid running out of Qsymia. If adverse side effects make it difficult to take Qsymia, contact your healthcare provider for a discontinuation plan instead of stopping the medication all at once.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Stay hydrated. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dr. Chichak recommends drinking plenty of water and avoiding caffeinated drinks when taking Qsymia in order to avoid dry mouth, ease tingling sensations in the skin, relieve constipation, and support the kidneys.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Be strategic about timing. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People who experience insomnia when taking Qsymia should try to take it first thing in the morning to minimize its effect on sleep. On the other hand, those who experience a depressant effect should consider taking it at night to minimize its effect on daytime energy and concentration.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Get routine checkups. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regular blood tests can detect potentially serious side effects\u2014such as low potassium, metabolic acidosis, and even the formation of kidney stones\u2014and allow for an early intervention. But don\u2019t wait for a scheduled visit to communicate concerns with your healthcare provider. \u201cThe best way to adjust treatment plans and to ensure overall safety is by being transparent with your physician about new or ongoing side effects,\u201d Dr. Chichak says.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Take Qsymia exactly as prescribed. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Qsymia is typically prescribed as a once-daily medication. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/qsymia\/dosage\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Qsymia doses<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are gradually adjusted over a period of time, starting with a 3.75 mg\/23 mg dose of phentermine\/topiramate and potentially increasing to a maximum dose of 15 mg\/92 mg. Consider using a calendar to track the exact dose you need to take each day. An alarm can also help you remember to take the medication at the same time each day. Taking Qsymia incorrectly could increase the risk of side effects.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"how-to-treat-side-effects-of-qsymia\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to treat side effects of Qsymia<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A healthcare provider may recommend slowly discontinuing Qsymia in the event of serious side effects, such as eye problems, kidney problems, or suicidal thoughts and actions. Some side effects, like constipation, insomnia, or depression, may be managed with an adjustment in dose, additional prescription drugs, or over-the-counter medications. Talk to your healthcare provider about any and all side effects to get individualized medical advice.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"bottom-line-is-qsymia-safe\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bottom line: Is Qsymia safe?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Qsymia is a relatively safe choice for medically assisted weight loss in people 12 years and older who do not have a contraindicated condition like glaucoma, kidney disease, or hyperthyroidism and who do not take a contraindicated medication like an MAOI. Qsymia shouldn\u2019t be taken by people who are pregnant or may become pregnant due to the risk of birth defects, and it\u2019s not recommended for those who are breastfeeding. Qsymia may cause serious side effects but shouldn\u2019t be abruptly discontinued without medical guidance due to the risk of seizures. Healthcare professionals can determine if Qsymia is right for you.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Manufactured by Vivus, Qsymia is an oral medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for weight loss in people ages 12 and older. Each extended-release capsule contains a combination of phentermine and topiramate. Phentermine is a Schedule IV controlled substance that acts as an appetite suppressant. Topiramate is normally used as an anti-epileptic [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":631588,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4589],"tags":[12752,9825],"coauthors":[21074],"class_list":["post-631583","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drug-info","tag-medication-side-effects","tag-weight-loss","wpautop"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.4 (Yoast SEO v27.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Qsymia side effects and how to avoid them<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Dry mouth, constipation, and tingling skin are common Qsymia side effects. 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