Qsymia for weight loss: effectiveness and dosage

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

About

Constance Tambakis Odom, MD graduated in 1987 with her Doctorate of Medicine from the New York Medical College, and was an Anesthesiologist Resident from 1988 to 1991 at the Brookdale Medical Center PGY II (CA-I)-PGY IV (CA-III). She is Board Certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology since 1998 and American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine since 2002. Constance Odom, MD is affiliated with the American Medical Association, American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, American Society of Anesthesiology, Georgia Society of Anesthesiology, Hellenic Medical Society of New York, North Carolina Society of Anesthesiology, and Society of Ambulatory Anesthesia.

Credentials

Medical Director At:

• Nu Image Medical
• MetroMedispa P.A.

Staff Anesthesiologist at:

• Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital in Dunn, NC
• Onslow Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville, NC
• Duplin General Hospital in Kenansville, NC

Director of Anesthesia Services at:

• Jacksonville Surgery Center in Jacksonville, NC

Written by our editorial team.

Last Edited 2 months ago · 6 min read

What is Qsymia used for?

Qsymia is a prescription medication designed to help individuals struggling with obesity or overweight achieve significant weight loss. It's typically prescribed when diet and exercise alone haven't been successful. Qsymia is not a magic pill; it works best as part of a comprehensive weight management plan that includes a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

How Does Qsymia Work?

Qsymia is a combination of two medications: phentermine and topiramate. Each component works in a different way to promote weight loss:

• Phentermine: This is an appetite suppressant that affects the central nervous system. It may help to reduce hunger and food intake by stimulating the release of certain brain chemicals that control appetite.

• Topiramate: While originally used to treat epilepsy and migraine headaches, topiramate may also contribute to reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness after eating.

How Does Qsymia Work for Weight Loss?

Appetite suppression

By combining phentermine and topiramate, Qsymia targets weight loss through multiple pathways. Phentermine reduces the sensation of hunger, making it easier to stick to a reduced-calorie diet. Topiramate enhances this effect by increasing feelings of satiety, or fullness, after eating. Together, these effects can help individuals control their food intake more effectively.

Metabolic changes

In addition to appetite suppression, Qsymia may also lead to metabolic changes that promote weight loss. Topiramate is believed to influence glucose and fat metabolism, potentially leading to increased fat-burning and reduced fat storage.

Timelines for Results

The effectiveness of Qsymia can vary from person to person, depending on various factors such as adherence to the prescribed regimen, diet, physical activity, and individual metabolic differences. However, clinical studies have shown that individuals using Qsymia can start to see noticeable weight loss within the first few weeks of treatment.

Initial Phase

• Week 1-4: During this period, most patients begin with a lower dose to allow their bodies to adjust to the medication. Some initial weight loss is usually observed, which can be motivating for continued adherence to the treatment plan.

Progressive Phase

• Month 2-3: By this time, the dosage may be gradually increased according to the prescribing doctor's recommendations. Significant weight loss is often observed during this period as the full effects of the medication take hold.

Maintenance Phase

• Month 4 and beyond: Continued weight loss or maintenance of lost weight is typically seen. It is crucial to continue following a healthy diet and exercise regimen during this phase to sustain the benefits achieved with Qsymia.

How is Qsymia supplied (Dosage Forms)?

Qsymia is available in several dosage forms to accommodate different needs and to allow for gradual dose adjustments. This flexibility helps minimize side effects and maximize the medication’s effectiveness. The typical dosage forms include:

• Initial Dose: 3.75 mg phentermine / 23 mg topiramate extended-release

• Recommended Dose: 7.5 mg phentermine / 46 mg topiramate extended-release

• Higher Dose Option: 11.25 mg phentermine / 69 mg topiramate extended-release

• Maximum Dose: 15 mg phentermine / 92 mg topiramate extended-release

Patients usually start with the initial dose and then move to the recommended dose based on their response to the medication and their doctor's guidance. If additional weight loss is needed and well-tolerated, the higher dose options can be considered.

Additional factors for success

• Compliance with treatment

Adhering to the prescribed dosage and timing is crucial for the effectiveness of Qsymia. Skipping doses or stopping the medication without consulting a healthcare provider can hinder weight loss progress and may cause side effects.

• Lifestyle Changes

Qsymia is most effective when used in conjunction with lifestyle changes such as a balanced, reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity. These changes not only enhance the weight loss effects of the medication but also contribute to long-term health and well-being.

• Regular Monitoring

Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are essential to monitor progress, adjust dosages if necessary, and manage any side effects. These check-ins help ensure that the treatment plan remains effective and safe.

• Individual Variability

Individual responses to Qsymia can vary based on factors such as age, gender, baseline weight, and underlying health conditions. It is important to have realistic expectations and to work closely with a healthcare provider to tailor the treatment plan to individual needs.

Undoubtedly, Qsymia offers a promising option for individuals struggling with obesity or overweight, especially when traditional methods have not yielded satisfactory results. By understanding its mechanisms, timelines for effectiveness, and the importance of lifestyle changes, individuals can maximize their chances of success with Qsymia. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure the safe and effective use of this medication.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your physician about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Nu Image Medical may not offer the medications or services mentioned in this article.