Does topiramate cause weight loss in adults and children. How effective is topiramate for weight management. What are the side effects of using topiramate for weight loss. Is topiramate FDA-approved for weight loss. How does topiramate compare to other weight loss medications.

Understanding Topiramate: Uses and Mechanism of Action

Topiramate, commonly known by its brand name Topamax, is primarily classified as an anticonvulsant medication. It’s primarily used to treat epilepsy and prevent migraine headaches. However, an interesting side effect of this drug has caught the attention of both medical professionals and patients alike: weight loss.

But how does topiramate work? The exact mechanism of action isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to work by altering neurotransmitter activity in the brain. This affects not only seizure activity and pain perception but also appetite regulation.

Primary Uses of Topiramate

• Control of partial-onset seizures
• Treatment of primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures
• Management of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome
• Prevention of migraine headaches

It’s important to note that while topiramate can help prevent migraines, it cannot stop a migraine once it has started.

Topiramate and Weight Loss: What Does the Research Say?

Clinical studies have indeed shown a correlation between topiramate use and weight loss in both adults and children. The effect appears to be dose-dependent, with higher doses generally leading to more significant weight loss.

Weight Loss in Adults

In studies focusing on seizure control in adults aged 16 and older, weight loss was observed in 6% of patients taking a 50 mg/day dose and 17% of those on a 400 mg/day dose. When used for migraine prevention, 6% of adults on a 50 mg/day dose and 9% on a 100 mg/day dose experienced weight loss, compared to only 1% in the placebo group.

Weight Loss in Children

Children aged 6 to 15 years also experienced weight loss when taking topiramate for seizure control. At a 50 mg/day dose, 7% of children lost weight, while at 400 mg/day, this increased to 17%. For migraine prevention in adolescents aged 12 to 17, weight loss occurred in 7% of those on a 50 mg/day dose and 4% on a 100 mg/day dose, compared to 2% in the placebo group.

The Role of Anorexia in Topiramate-Induced Weight Loss

Anorexia, or loss of appetite, is a reported side effect of topiramate that may contribute to weight loss. In adult studies, anorexia was observed in 4% to 15% of patients, depending on the dose. Interestingly, anorexia was not reported in children aged 6 to 15 years old in the studies cited.

Is anorexia the primary cause of weight loss in topiramate users? While it likely plays a role, the exact relationship between anorexia and weight loss in topiramate users hasn’t been definitively established in these studies.

FDA Approval Status of Topiramate for Weight Loss

Despite its apparent effect on weight, topiramate when used alone is not FDA-approved specifically for weight loss. However, some healthcare providers may prescribe it off-label for this purpose, particularly for patients who also require treatment for seizures or migraines.

There is, however, an FDA-approved weight loss medication that contains topiramate. Qsymia, a combination of phentermine and topiramate extended-release, is approved for weight management in certain obese or overweight individuals with additional risk factors such as hypertension, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes.

How does Qsymia work for weight loss?

1. Phentermine acts as an appetite suppressant
2. Topiramate may reduce food intake and increase feelings of fullness
3. The combination is used alongside diet and exercise for optimal results

Side Effects and Discontinuation: Weighing the Pros and Cons

While weight loss may be seen as a positive side effect for some patients, topiramate is associated with numerous other side effects that may impact its use, especially when considered solely for weight management.

Common Side Effects of Topiramate

• Difficulty with memory
• Fatigue and weakness
• Insomnia
• Somnolence (extreme drowsiness)
• Paresthesia (tingling sensation in extremities)
• Difficulty with concentration/attention
• Nausea and stomach pain
• Taste perversion

In clinical studies, these side effects led to treatment discontinuation in 21% of adults and 14% of children in the high-dose (400 mg/day) groups. Interestingly, weight loss itself was not listed as a common reason for discontinuation.

Comparing Topiramate to Other Weight Loss Medications

How does topiramate stack up against other weight loss medications on the market? While a direct comparison is challenging due to differences in study designs and patient populations, we can consider some general points.

Topiramate vs. FDA-Approved Weight Loss Drugs

• Orlistat (Xenical): Works by blocking fat absorption in the intestines
• Liraglutide (Saxenda): A GLP-1 receptor agonist that increases feelings of fullness
• Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia): Combines an appetite suppressant with topiramate
• Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave): Affects brain reward circuits to reduce food cravings

Each of these medications has its own efficacy profile and side effect considerations. Topiramate, when used alone, may offer the advantage of addressing multiple issues (such as seizures or migraines) while also promoting weight loss. However, its side effect profile may be more significant than some dedicated weight loss drugs.

The Future of Topiramate in Weight Management

Given the growing global obesity epidemic, the potential of topiramate as a weight loss aid continues to be of interest to researchers and clinicians. Future studies may focus on optimizing dosing regimens to maximize weight loss while minimizing side effects.

Are there specific patient populations that might benefit most from topiramate for weight management? This is an area ripe for further investigation. Patients with comorbid conditions such as epilepsy, migraines, and obesity might be ideal candidates for topiramate therapy, potentially addressing multiple health concerns with a single medication.

Potential Areas for Future Research

• Long-term efficacy and safety of topiramate for weight management
• Combination therapies involving topiramate for enhanced weight loss
• Genetic factors influencing individual response to topiramate-induced weight loss
• Impact of topiramate on metabolic parameters beyond weight loss

Practical Considerations for Patients and Healthcare Providers

For patients considering topiramate for weight loss, and for healthcare providers contemplating its prescription, several factors should be taken into account:

Key Considerations

1. Primary indication: Is the patient a candidate for topiramate based on its approved uses (seizures, migraines)?
2. Risk-benefit analysis: Do the potential benefits of weight loss outweigh the risks of side effects?
3. Monitoring: Regular follow-ups to assess efficacy and monitor for adverse effects are crucial.
4. Lifestyle modifications: Topiramate should be used in conjunction with diet and exercise for optimal results.
5. Alternative options: Are other weight loss medications or interventions more appropriate for the individual patient?

Have patients experienced successful weight loss with topiramate? While individual experiences may vary, the clinical studies discussed earlier suggest that a significant portion of patients do experience weight loss. However, it’s important to remember that results can differ from person to person, and weight loss is not guaranteed.

Can topiramate be used long-term for weight management? The long-term use of topiramate specifically for weight management hasn’t been extensively studied. Most of the weight loss data comes from studies where it was used for its primary indications. Patients considering long-term use should discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider.

As with any medication, the decision to use topiramate should be made on an individual basis, taking into account the patient’s overall health status, existing conditions, and treatment goals. While its weight loss effects are intriguing, topiramate is not a magic bullet for obesity and should be approached with careful consideration of its benefits and potential drawbacks.

In conclusion, topiramate presents an interesting case in the realm of weight management. While not primarily designed or approved for weight loss, its effects on body weight have been consistently observed in clinical studies. As research continues and our understanding of its mechanisms deepens, topiramate may play an increasingly important role in the multifaceted approach to treating obesity and its related conditions. However, its use for weight loss should always be under the guidance of a healthcare professional, with careful monitoring and consideration of individual patient factors.

Does topiramate cause weight loss?

Medically reviewed by Leigh Ann Anderson, PharmD. Last updated on Jan 19, 2023.

Key Points

• Yes, topiramate (Topamax) has been shown to cause weight loss when used for both seizure control and migraine prevention.
• Anorexia (loss of appetite), which may contribute to weight loss, has also been reported in studies in both children and adults, although no correlation was made in studies
• Topiramate (used by itself) is not specifically approved by the FDA for weight loss, but some doctors may prescribe it if you have seizures or migraine and need to lose weight, too. Side effects may hinder its use for weight loss when used alone.
• Topiramate is available in an extended-release medicine approved for weight loss known as Qsymia (phentermine and topiramate). Phentermine is an appetite suppressant (anorexiant) with characteristics similar to amphetamine. Qsymia is used along with diet and exercise to treat people who are either obese, or overweight with other risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol or type 2 diabetes.

What is topiramate used for?

Topiramate is classified as an anticonvulsant (seizure) medication.

• Topiramate is a prescription medication, taken alone or with other drugs to control certain types of seizures due to epilepsy. Topiramate is used for the treatment of partial-onset seizures, primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures, and seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome.
• It is also used for the prevention of migraine headaches. Topiramate will not stop a migraine once it has started.

Brand names for topiramate available in the U.S. include Topamax, Trokendi XR, Topamax Sprinkle (discontinued), and Qudexy XR. Uses and dosage forms differ among products, and may not be interchangeable.

Related: Weight Loss and Diet Pills: Options to Know

Did weight loss occur in studies with topiramate?

Yes, weight loss was reported in studies of both children and adults. In general, weight loss was seen in 6% to 17% of patients, and tended to increase with higher doses.

Adults

Seizure control – Side effects were assessed in patients 16 years and older taking topiramate (Topamax) alone (without other seizure medicines) at two doses: 50 mg/day or 400 mg/day. Weight loss and loss of appetite (anorexia) were two of the most commonly reported side effects.

In the patients taking the lower 50 mg/day dose of topiramate, weight loss occurred in 6% of patients, and in the higher 200 mg/day dose, weight loss was reported in 17% of patients. Anorexia (loss of appetite), which may lead to weight loss, was also seen in 4% and 14% of patients, respectively.

When topiramate (Topamax) was studied in adults who used it in addition to other medicines (adjunctive treatment) for seizure control, weight loss occurred in 9% of patients receiving 200 mg/day to 400 mg/day, and 3% of those taking a placebo (an inactive pill). In children, these numbers were 9% and 1%, respectively.

Migraine prevention – In adults using doses of 50 mg/day for migraine prevention, 6% of patients experienced weight loss, while in the 100 mg/day group, 9% of patients reported weight loss. In contrast, 1% of patients in the placebo group lost weight. Anorexia occurred in 9% to 15% of those taking topiramate, but also occurred in 6% of those taking a placebo.

Children

Seizures – In children 6 to 15 years of age taking the 50 mg/day dose of topiramate (Topamax) for seizures, weight loss was seen in 7% of patients. In the higher dosage group (400 mg/day) weight loss occurred in 17% of children. Anorexia (loss of appetite) was not reported in either dose group for children 6 to 15 years old.

Migraine prevention – In adolescents 12 to 17 years of age, weight loss occurred in 7% (50 mg/day dose) and 4% (100 mg/day) compared to 2% in the placebo group. Anorexia occurred in 9% to 10% of patients taking topiramate and 4% of those taking a placebo.

Treatment discontinuation with topiramate

Weight loss is not listed in the product label as a common reason why patients discontinued treatment with topiramate (Topamax).

In studies, some patients stopped treatment due to other side effects.

• In adults 16 years and older in the high dose group (400 mg/day), 21% of patients stopped treatment due to difficulty with memory, fatigue, asthenia (weakness), insomnia (difficulty sleeping), somnolence (extreme drowsiness), and paresthesia (pins and needles or tingling feeling in extremities).
• In children 6 to 15 years of age in the high dose group (400 mg/day), 14% of patients stopped treatment due to difficulty with concentration/attention, fever, flushing, and confusion.

Topiramate is linked with many other side effects, including nausea, stomach pain, and taste perversion, which may impact weight loss or anorexia.

This is not all the information you need to know about topiramate for safe and effective use. Review the full topiramate (Topamax) information here, and discuss this and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.

References

• Kramer CK, Leitão CB, Pinto LC, et al. Efficacy and safety of topiramate on weight loss: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Obes Rev. 2011 May;12(5):e338-47. PMID: 21438989
• Topiramate. Drugs@FDA: FDA-Approved Drugs. Accessed Jan. 29, 2021 at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm
• Topamax [product monograph]. Drugs.com. Accessed Jan. 28, 2021 at https://www.drugs.com/pro/topamax.html
• Qysmia [product monograph]. Drugs.com. Accessed Jan 29, 2021 at https://www.drugs.com/pro/qsymia.html

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Medical Disclaimer

Topamax for weight loss: Off-label safety and efficacy

Topamax is prescribed to treat epilepsy and migraines, but the drug is also well known for causing weight loss

Is Topamax approved for weight loss? | Dosage | Safety | Risks | Weight gain after Topamax | Other ways to lose weight | FAQs

Topamax is the brand name of a generic medication called topiramate. It’s an anticonvulsant medication that’s used to treat conditions like epilepsy, migraine headaches, and alcohol use disorder. Topamax is great for treating conditions like this, but many people who take it will experience weight loss as a main side effect. Let’s take a more in-depth look at how safe and effective Topamax is, and see how it’s related to weight loss. 

Is Topamax approved for weight loss?

Topamax is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat epilepsy and migraines, but the drug is also well known for causing weight loss. Even though weight loss may be a positive benefit of taking Topamax, the FDA hasn’t approved it for weight loss alone. 

Topamax causes weight loss because it affects the appetite. People who take it and have a reduced appetite may feel hungry less often and eat less because of this. Studies have shown that Topamax may also speed up metabolism, which means that the body would be digesting food quicker than normal. 

 Clinical trials have shown that about 6%-17% of people who take Topamax will experience weight loss, and while many people may see this as an added benefit, losing too much weight isn’t a good thing. Dr. Kuldeep Singh, a top weight loss surgeon in the Baltimore Metropolitan area and Director of The Maryland Bariatric Center at Mercy Medical Center, says that most people will experience moderate weight loss from Topamax. Losing weight rapidly can be unhealthy, and it may be time to see a doctor if you’re taking Topamax and this happens to you. Maintaining a healthy weight is important, and the best way to find out what target weight is best for you is to ask your doctor. Falling below your target body weight because of Topamax would be another sign that it’s time to talk with your doctor. 

Topamax dosage for weight loss

Because the use of Topamax for weight is off-label and truly a side effect of its use in clinical practice, no specific dose can be specified for this indication. Topamax’s weight loss side effect has resulted in its off-label use to treat binge eating disorders in adults, and the dosing for this indication does not differ greatly in comparison to other approved indications, ranging from 25mg per day to a maximum of 400mg per day. If used off-label for weight loss, the dose will likely begin low at 25mg to 50mg once daily and increase slowly over weeks until a benefit of weight loss is noted – balancing this desirable side effect with those which are less desirable. It is unlikely the dose of topiramate for the indication of weight loss needs to exceed 200 mg per day, as clinical trials have not demonstrated additional benefit in percent body weight lost beyond this dose. An extended-release formulation of topiramate co-formulated with phentermine is available as a product called Qsymia, which is indicated for chronic weight management. The dose of topiramate in this co-formulated product ranges from 23 mg once daily to a maximum of 96 mg once daily. 

Is it safe to take Topamax for weight loss?

Sometimes Topamax can be prescribed off-label to help someone lose weight. Off-label prescribing happens when a doctor writes someone a prescription for a medication that’s approved by the FDA to treat a condition that’s different from what their patient has. This is legal and frequently happens in the medical industry, with an estimated 1 in 5 prescriptions being written off-label. 

A doctor may choose to write someone a prescription for Topamax to help with their weight loss or to treat eating disorders like binging and purging that lead to weight gain. According to Dr. Singh, someone must have a body mass index (BMI) that’s 30 or higher in order to be prescribed any weight loss medication, including Topamax. 

Studies have shown that people who take Topamax for weight loss lose about 11 pounds in comparison to placebo groups if they take the drug for at least four months, and that the weight loss effects of Topamax increase with both duration of treatment and dosage. Studies have also shown that topiramate treatment can increase the chance of statistically significant weight loss by more than sixfold. 

Risks of using Topamax for weight loss

Even though Topamax can be very effective for weight loss, it isn’t safe for everyone. The following groups of people should talk with their doctor before taking Topamax because they may have an increased risk of experiencing serious adverse events if they take it: 

• People with kidney disease
• People with lung disease or breathing problems
• People with liver disease
• People with eye problems such as glaucoma 
• People with depression
• People with suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• People with osteoporosis 
• People with metabolic ketoacidosis 

It may be safe for pregnant women to take Topamax if the benefits of taking the medication outweigh its potential risks. Topamax can cause fetal harm and oral birth defects if it’s taken by pregnant women, which is why it’s prescribed with caution. It’s also excreted in human milk, but it’s unknown whether or not it will negatively impact breastfeeding infants. Topamax can make birth control pills less effective, so it’s important to talk with your doctor about using non-hormonal birth control methods if you don’t want to become pregnant while taking Topamax. 

Side effects of using Topamax for weight loss

People who aren’t pregnant and who don’t have any of the health conditions mentioned above can safely take Topamax, but they may still experience side effects from taking it. Here are some of the most common side effects of Topamax aside from weight loss: 

• Dizziness
• Tiredness
• Numbness
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite 
• Loss of coordination
• Paresthesia (burning sensations) 

Although it’s rare, Topamax can cause more serious side effects that may require medical attention like confusion, memory problems, trouble concentrating, and trouble speaking. Some people will also experience mental health side effects like depression, panic attacks, mood changes, and suicidal thoughts or behaviors. If you have any of these symptoms, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible. 

The other rare side effect of Topamax that’s worth mentioning is eye problems that can lead to vision changes and blindness, which is why it’s so important to call your doctor if your vision starts to change. This list of side effects is not comprehensive; if you’d like a complete list of Topamax side effects, you can always ask your doctor or pharmacist for a medication guide. 

If Topamax is causing too many side effects for you, know that you have other options. The active ingredient in Topamax, topiramate, is the main ingredient in the weight loss drug Qsymia, which also contains phentermine. According to Dr. Singh, Qsymia is one of the best medications to use long-term in combination with diet and lifestyle changes for weight loss, especially for obese patients with class 1 or class 2 obesity. So if you’re not able to take Topamax because of an underlying health problem or because you’re experiencing too many adverse effects, you might try asking your doctor about Qsymia or other ways to lose weight.  

How to take Topamax to lose weight

Topamax can be taken to promote weight loss and help control binging and purging, but it’s important to remember that it isn’t a substitute for going to a doctor and creating a well-rounded weight loss plan. If you’re interested in taking Topamax, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your doctor to see if it’s right for you. Your doctor will do a complete physical exam and ask about your medical history. If you and your doctor decide that Topamax can safely help you lose weight, then you may receive a prescription for it.

If you do receive a prescription from your doctor, it’s important to know how to take Topamax to get the best results. The starting dose of Topamax for weight loss is a low dose of 25 mg per day, but this dosage strength can be increased on a case-by-case basis based on each individual’s medical history and how much weight they have to lose. 

In a study done by the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, bipolar and schizophrenic patients who were given an average dose of 195 mg of topiramate per day lost about 22 pounds over time. This just goes to show that the range of Topamax dosages can vary from low to high and that doctors may increase or decrease the amount of Topamax that someone takes over time-based on the results they are or aren’t getting. 

It can take some time to see weight loss results from taking Topamax. Some people may not notice a difference until they’ve taken the drug for at least four months, while other people may start to lose weight in their first month of taking it. Weight loss results from topiramate are proven to increase over time. 

Topamax can be taken with or without food and is generally taken at the same time each day. It shouldn’t be taken at the same time as certain other medications because of the potential for drug interactions. Here’s a list of medications Topamax shouldn’t be taken with:

• Antiepileptic drugs
• Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
• CNS depressants
• Oral contraceptives
• Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) 
• Pioglitazone
• Lithium
• Amitriptyline 

In addition to these medications, Topamax shouldn’t be taken with alcohol because this can cause sleepiness, increase the risk of getting kidney stones, and cause metabolic acidosis. Metabolic acidosis is a condition where too much acid builds up in body fluids, and it can become life-threatening if it goes untreated. If you start to experience rapid breathing, confusion, extreme tiredness, and an increased heart rate while taking Topamax, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible because these are signs that you may have metabolic acidosis.

Related: Saxenda for weight loss

Weight gain after Topamax

When someone stops taking Topamax, it’s possible that they might experience some weight gain over time, especially if they haven’t been combining Topamax with healthy lifestyle changes. In an observational study done by the National Library of Medicine, discontinuation of Topamax for at least six months showed a trend for returning to a baseline weight. So people may be more likely to return to what they weighed before they started taking Topamax, but this may take some time. 

This return to a baseline weight may happen because the body is no longer experiencing a reduced appetite and faster metabolism. The best way to make sure you’re able to keep weight off after stopping Topamax is to adopt healthy lifestyle changes that will support you on your weight loss journey. 

5 safe ways to lose weight

Topamax can be helpful on your weight loss journey if your doctor approves it, but it’s not the only way to lose weight. Lifestyle changes can help you lose weight and keep it off so that you can enjoy the benefits of weight loss without taking Topamax, while taking it, or after taking it. Here are some of the safest ways to lose weight. 

1. Improving your eating habits

Eating healthy is one of the safest and best ways to lose weight. Being mindful of what and how much you’re eating can help you lose weight if you do it right. For the best advice on what to eat to lose weight, you should talk with your doctor, but making some small changes like eating more fruits and vegetables can be a great way to start. 

Processed foods, refined carbohydrates, sugar, and alcohol are all examples of foods that can cause weight gain. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and high-quality proteins like salmon, beans, and eggs are all great examples of foods that the body can easily process and get vital nutrients from. 

2. Exercising regularly 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), exercise not only helps control weight, but it reduces high blood pressure, reduces the risk of getting Type 2 diabetes, and can even reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety. People vary in how much physical exercise they need to lose weight, so it’s a good idea to talk with your doctor about how often you should be exercising. Some great exercises for weight loss include walking, biking, swimming, and weight training. 

3. Reducing stress

Stress is linked to many health problems, such as anxiety and depression, but it’s also been linked to unexpected weight gain. Feeling stressed out can lead to emotional eating, which can lead to weight gain over time. Finding ways to reduce stress may help you lose weight. You might try meditating, yoga, going for walks in a park, or calling a friend or family member. You can also ask your doctor or a counselor for proven ways to reduce stress that might fit into your lifestyle. 

4. Getting enough sleep 

According to the Sleep Foundation, a lack of sleep may increase the appetite and lead to metabolic problems. Getting enough sleep can help your body function properly and give you more energy to do things like exercise, which will help you lose weight. Getting enough sleep can also reduce your stress levels, which will help you control any urges you might get to overeat. 

5. Trying safe diet pills & supplements 

There are countless diet pills and supplements on the market that claim to cause weight loss, such as Hydroxycut and glucomannan, but they shouldn’t serve as a substitute for healthy lifestyle changes. “When people go for weight loss medications, most of them do it because it’s easy to do,” says Dr. Singh. “If somebody seriously changes their lifestyle and eating habits first, they will really see a solid improvement with Topamax or other weight loss medications. The mindset is the most important thing. Medications cannot serve as a substitute for proper eating and exercising habits,” says Dr. Singh. 

Frequently asked questions about Topamax and weight loss

Can Topamax cause rapid weight loss?

Because the weight loss seen with Topamax is related to a decrease in appetite, you won’t begin to see weight loss for a few weeks, if not a couple of months. In addition, the weight loss with Topamax is unlikely to be drastic—most studies have shown a decrease in Body Mass Index (BMI) around the 5-10% mark. 

How much Topamax should I take to lose weight?

For all indications, the Topamax dose is usually started low and increased slowly over time so as to be able to monitor for the onset of unwanted side effects. Clinical studies have shown a plateau of this side effect approaching a dose of 200mg per day, meaning patients exceeding this dose did not demonstrate greater weight loss. 

How long does it take to lose weight on topiramate?

Weight loss by Topamax can be noticed within weeks of starting the medication as it decreases appetite and potentially stimulates metabolism. The additional benefit of Topamax in comparison to other weight loss medications on the market is that there does not seem to be a plateau of weight loss at six months, so the weight loss may be an ongoing effect. 

What is the difference between phentermine and topiramate?

Phentermine is a sympathomimetic medication that is specifically indicated for weight loss. Aside from its FDA-approved indication, due to its mechanism of stimulating the central nervous system, the main difference between the two medications is that phentermine should only be used short-term. 

What is the best weight loss pill?

The best weight loss pill should be individualized to a person since so many weight loss medications are approved to be used to manage additional conditions. Some medications that help manage Type 2 diabetes with a side effect of weight loss make more sense to use in a diabetic patient, whereas topiramate might be best suited for someone that suffers from migraines and needs to lose a little weight. While weight loss might be considered a beneficial side effect, it might not be in all patients; in addition, the other side effects of these medications should be considered in case they won’t jive with a person. Any decision on weight loss medications should be made in conjunction with a healthcare professional with a good understanding of all of a patient’s needs and conditions.

Topamax for weight loss: safety and effectiveness | SingleCare – Product Information

Home >> Product Information >> Topamax Slimming: see Safety and Efficacy Information.

Product Information

Topamax is the brand name for a generic drug called topiramate. It is technically classified as an anticonvulsant, which is used to treat conditions such as epilepsy, but is also used to treat other conditions such as migraine and bipolar disorder. Topamax is great for treating these conditions, but many people taking it will experience weight loss as a major side effect. Let’s take a closer look at how safe and effective Topamax is and how it affects weight loss.

Topamax slimming

Topamax is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment and prevention of epilepsy. migraine, but the prescription drug is also well known for causing weight loss. While weight loss may be a positive benefit of taking Topamax, the FDA has not approved it for weight loss alone.

Topamax causes weight loss because it affects appetite. People who take it and have a reduced appetite may feel less hungry and eat less because of it. Studies have shown that Topamax can also speed up metabolism, which means that the body burns calories faster.

Clinical trials have shown that approximately 6%-17% of people taking Topamax experience weight loss, and while many people may see this as an added benefit, too much weight loss is not good. “Most people will experience moderate weight loss from Topamax,” says Kuldip Singh, MD, a Baltimore-based weight loss surgeon and director of the Maryland Bariatric Center at Mercy Medical Center. Rapid weight loss can be unhealthy – it might be time to see a doctor if you’re taking Topamax and this is happening to you. Maintaining a healthy weight is important, and the best way to find out what target weight is best for you is to ask your doctor. Decreasing body weight below your target due to Topamax will be another sign that it’s time to talk to your doctor.

Is it safe to take Topamax for weight loss?

Topamax can sometimes be prescribed off label to help you lose weight. Off-label prescription occurs when a doctor writes someone a prescription for an FDA-approved drug to treat a condition other than the one their patient has. This is legal and often occurs in the medical industry, with an estimated 1 in 5 prescriptions being misused.

A doctor can give someone a prescription for Topamax to help with weight loss or to treat eating disorders such as overeating and purging that lead to weight gain. According to Dr. Singh, in order to be prescribed any weight loss medications, including Topamax, someone must have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher.

Studies have shown that people taking Topamax for weight loss lose approximately 11 pounds compared to placebo groups if they take the drug for at least four months, and that the weight loss effect of Topamax increases with both treatment duration and dosage. Studies have also shown that treatment with topiramate can increase the likelihood of statistically significant weight loss by more than sixfold.

Although Topamax can be very effective for weight loss, it is not safe for everyone. The following groups of people should talk to their doctor before taking Topamax because they may have an increased risk of serious side effects if they take it:

• People with kidney disease
• People with lung or breathing problems.
• People with liver disease
• People with vision problems such as glaucoma
• People with depression
• People with suicidal thoughts or behavior
• People with osteoporosis
• People with bolic ketoacidosis

It may be safe for pregnant women to take Topamax if the benefits of taking the medicine outweigh the potential risks. It is unlikely that Topamax will or should be given during pregnancy for weight loss purposes. Topamax can cause fetal harm and oral birth defects if taken by pregnant women, so it should be used with caution and only if medically necessary. It is also excreted in breast milk, but it is not known if it will adversely affect breastfeeding. Topamax may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills, so it is important to discuss the use of non-hormonal methods of contraception with your doctor if you do not want to become pregnant while taking Topamax.

People who are not pregnant and who do not have any of the conditions listed above can safely take Topamax, but they may still experience side effects from taking it. Here are some of the most common side effects of Topamax, other than weight loss:

• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Numbness
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Loss of coordination

90 036 Paresthesia (burning)

Although rare, Topamax can cause more serious side effects that may require medical attention, such as confusion, memory problems, trouble concentrating, and speech problems. Some people will also experience mental health side effects such as depression, panic attacks, mood changes, and suicidal thoughts or behavior. If you have any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Another rare side effect of Topamax is vision problems, which can lead to vision changes and blindness, so it’s important to call your doctor if your vision starts to change. This list of side effects is not exhaustive; If you need a complete list of Topamax side effects, ask your doctor or pharmacist for a medication guide.

If Topamax causes too many side effects, know that you have other options. Topamax’s active ingredient, topiramate, is also the main ingredient in the weight loss drug. Qsymia, which is a combination containing phentermine. According to Dr. Singh, Qsymia is one of the best medicines for long-term use in combination with diet and lifestyle changes for weight loss, especially for grade 1 or 2 obese patients. Therefore, if you are unable to take Topamax due to an underlying health problem or because you are experiencing too many side effects, you may want to try asking your healthcare provider about Qsymia or other ways to lose weight.

How to take Topamax to lose weight

Topamax can be taken to promote weight loss and control overeating and detoxification, but it is important to remember that it is not a substitute for visiting a doctor and putting together a comprehensive weight loss plan. If you are interested in taking Topamax, it is best to make an appointment with your doctor to see if it is right for you. Your doctor will perform a complete physical exam and ask about your medical history. If you and your doctor decide that Topamax can safely help you lose weight, you may be able to get a prescription for it.

If you do get a prescription from your doctor, it is important to know how to take Topamax to get the best results. The starting dose of Topamax for weight loss is a low dose of 25mg per day, but this dosage can be increased on a case-by-case basis based on each person’s medical history and how much weight they need to lose.

In a study conducted by Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, patients with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia were given an average of 195mg of topiramate a day lost about 22 pounds over time. This shows that the dosage range of Topamax can vary from low to high, and that doctors can increase or decrease the amount of Topamax someone takes depending on their individual results over time.

It may take some time to see weight loss results from taking Topamax. Some people may not notice a difference until they have been taking the drug for at least four months, while other people may start to lose weight in the first month of taking it. Weight loss results from topiramate have been proven to increase over time.

Topamax can be taken with or without food, usually at the same time each day. It should not be taken at the same time as certain other medicines due to the potential for drug interactions. Here is a list of drugs that Topamax should not be taken with:

• Antiepileptics
• Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
• CNS depressants
• Oral contraceptives
• Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) 9003 7
• Pioglitazone
• Lithium
• Amitriptyline

In addition to these medicines, Topamax should not be taken with alcohol because it may cause drowsiness, increase the risk of kidney stones and cause metabolic acidosis. Metabolic acidosis is a condition in which too much acid builds up in body fluids and can become life-threatening if left untreated. If you begin to experience rapid breathing, confusion, extreme fatigue, and a rapid heart rate while taking Topamax, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible, as these are signs that you may have metabolic acidosis.

Weight gain after Topamax

When someone stops taking Topamax, they may gain weight over time, especially if they did not combine Topamax with healthy lifestyle changes. In an observational study by the National Library of Medicine, discontinuing Topamax for at least six months showed a trend towards a return to baseline weight. Thus, people are more likely to return to what they weighed before they started taking Topamax, but this may take some time.

This return to original weight can occur because the body no longer experiences decreased appetite and accelerated metabolism. The best way to maintain weight after stopping Topamax is to make healthy lifestyle changes that will support you on your weight loss journey.

5 Safe Ways to Lose Weight

Topamax may be helpful in your weight loss journey if approved by your doctor, but it is not the only way to lose weight. Lifestyle changes can help you lose weight and keep it off so you can enjoy the benefits of weight loss without taking Topamax, during or after taking it. Here are some of the safest ways to lose weight.

1. Improve your eating habits.

Eating healthy is one of the safest and best ways to lose weight. Being mindful of what and how much you eat will help you lose weight if you do it right. For the best advice on what to eat to lose weight, you should talk to your doctor, but making some small changes, like eating more fruits and vegetables, can be a great start.

Processed foods, refined carbohydrates, sugar, and alcohol are all examples of foods that can cause weight gain. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and high-quality proteins like salmon, beans, and eggs are all great examples of foods that the body can easily process for vital nutrients.

2. Exercise regularly.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), exercise not only helps control weight, it also lowers high blood pressure, reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes, and may even reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. People vary in how much exercise they need to lose weight, so it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about how often you should exercise. Some great weight loss exercises include walking, cycling, swimming, and strength training.

3. Reduce stress.

Stress is associated with many health problems such as anxiety and depression. Feeling stressed can lead to emotional overeating, which can lead to weight gain over time. Finding ways to reduce stress can help you lose weight. You can do meditation, yoga, take a walk, or call a friend or family member. You can also ask your doctor or psychologist about proven ways to reduce stress that will fit into your lifestyle.

4. Get enough sleep.

According to the Sleep Foundation, lack of sleep can increase appetite and lead to metabolic disorders. Getting enough sleep can help your body function properly and give you more energy for things like exercise to help you lose weight. Getting enough sleep can also reduce your stress levels, which will help you control any overeating urges.

5. Try safe diet pills and dietary supplements.

There are countless diet pills and supplements on the market that claim to cause weight loss, such as Hydroxycut and glucomannan, but they should not be used as a substitute for healthy lifestyle changes. According to Dr. Singh, when people go for weight loss drugs, most of them do it because it’s easy to do. If someone first seriously changes their lifestyle and eating habits, they will indeed see a significant improvement with Topamax or other weight loss medications. Mood is the most important thing. Medicines cannot replace proper nutrition and exercise.

Dosage of Topamax for weight loss – Diet

What is the correct dosage of Topamax for weight loss? The answer is not simple – it depends on a number of factors. When considering the dosage of Topamax for weight loss, one must consider the risks associated with taking the medication versus its benefits.

What is Topamax?

Topamax (drug name topimirate) is a prescription anticonvulsant drug that acts on the frontal cortex of the brain. Topamax is primarily used to treat epilepsy, however there are several off-label uses including migraine prevention, treatment of bipolar disorder, and weight loss.

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While scientists aren’t entirely sure how Topamax works, it’s believed that it can actually rewire the part of the brain that controls addiction and also calms excitable nerves, among other things.

How does Topamax promote weight loss?

During clinical trials of Topamax for the treatment of epileptic seizures, many patients in the trial were found to lose weight. This side effect occurs due to several different properties of the drug.

• Patients often find that the taste of food has changed in such a way that it is much less palatable. This is especially noticeable in high-fat foods, sugary foods, and carbonated drinks.
• In many patients, even small doses of Topamax significantly reduce or completely eliminate appetite. Topamax patients often need to be reminded to eat or plan meals so they don’t forget to eat right.
• Topamax seems to act on the addictive centers of the brain, removing the addictive motives. Because many overweight people are addicted to food, Topamax can eliminate this addictive craving.

Side effects of Topamax

While all of the above may sound like a dream come true to people desperate to lose weight, Topamax is a powerful drug and weight loss can come at a cost. Some side effects of Topamax include:

• Brain fog and loss of mental alertness/intelligence (Topamax is sometimes referred to as “dopamax” due to the prevalence of this side effect).
• Dizziness
• Kidney stones
• Paresthesia (tingling) of the extremities, especially the hands and feet, although it can also occur on the face and other parts of the body.
• Fatigue
• Confusion
• Inability to pay attention
• Problems with coordination
• Nausea
• Loss of memory – especially word access disorder, which makes it difficult to find the right word at the right time.
• Dry mouth
• Back pain
• Hair loss

What is the correct dosage of Topamax for weight loss

The dosage of Topamax for weight loss can be from 25 mg per day or up to 800 mg per day – usually divided into two doses. Due to side effects, most physicians (and drug manufacturers) recommend gradually increasing the dose, starting with a minimum dose of 25 mg and gradually increasing the dose over several weeks. Your doctor will work with you to determine the most effective dose.

Other factors to consider

When choosing Topamax for weight loss, you can take into account the following:

• The use of Topamax for weight loss is not for its intended purpose. Clinical trials to identify Topamax as a weight loss drug were actually completed prematurely as it was determined that the side effects of Topamax were not well tolerated by patients using it for weight loss.
• Many insurers do not cover prescription drugs.
• Patients taking doses greater than 200 mg per day should reduce the dose of the drug if they decide to stop taking it. Abrupt discontinuation of Topamax at doses above this level may cause seizures even in patients who have never had seizures.
• When you stop taking Topamax, your appetite and food cravings return. It is important to learn proper nutrition and exercise strategies to support weight loss.
• Many patients report weight loss/appetite loss only during the first course of treatment. If you stop taking Topamax and then restart it, the results will not necessarily be the same.
• According to the Topamax package insert, only 16 percent of those who take it lose weight; however, some side effects occur in more than 50 percent of patients.