A challenging problem that has been hitting the human population hard is obesity, and quite an amount of research goes into finding solutions to manage obesity. Several FDA approved drugs help adults suffering from obesity and other high-weight related problems, Phentermine and Topiramate one among them.

How do they work

Phentermine is an appetite suppressant, and Topiramate is an anticonvulsant. The medication works by either decreasing your appetite, by increasing the energy spent or by acting on certain parts of the brain. Taken with a proper calorie diet, the medications are consumed once a day (usually in the morning) preferably at the same time. You must not chew/crush the capsule, and it is to be swallowed as a whole.

Dosage-

The dosage of topiramate and phentermine is usually low when recommended by physicians, and the dosage is eventually increased after 14 days. Once 12 weeks have passed through regular medication, a physician evaluates the amount of weight loss and will recommend further course of action. Usually, the period of consumption does not extend over 12 weeks within which visible results show up, as long as the patient is following the necessary diet plans.

Side effects-

Though weight loss medications help many, there are side effects associated which should not be ignored. Having topiramate and phentermine for extended periods of time can lead to addictive behavior; the risk of addiction increases with alcohol consumption. The drug, if taken, late in the day, may cause insomnia. A few may experience withdrawal symptoms, usually seizures, while stopping the medication; thus, following the doctor’s advice is crucial. Consuming the drug by crushing or chewing may increase the side effects.

Certain precautions to be taken-

• Since the drug can be absorbed through skin and lungs, it poses a risk to unborn baby; hence, pregnant women should not use this medication.
• Drinking plenty of water is essential to avoid kidney stones.
• The medication is not to be taken with other appetite suppressants and diet drugs, as they may react to produce adverse effects.
• If you suffer from glaucoma or happen to have suffered a heart attack six months before seeking treatment for obesity, it is unlikely a physician will recommend taking topiramate and phentermine.
• If you are to undergo surgery, it is important that you talk to your surgeon that you are taking weight loss medication, even in case of dental surgery.
• The medications can slow down your thinking processes as well as your movement.
• Lastly, the medication can also prevent you from sweating normally and can heat up your body. It is recommended to not engage in physically demanding activities until the course of your medication runs out.

A thorough evaluation with your doctor is necessary before opting for the weight-loss medications. The drugs may stop providing results after some time; hence, follow-up visits are equally important, so that your doctor will know when to stop the treatment.