Qsymia is a prescription weight loss medication that works for some patients.Taking it can cause a range of potentially serious side effects, and the medication can suddenly cause seizures.If your doctor agrees that you should try Qsymia, you will begin a 12-week process of increasing the dosage and evaluating your results.You could possibly go to higher dosages for 12 more weeks after that.It's easy to take Qsymia, but you need to watch for side effects and follow the protocol.
Step 1: If you meet the criteria for Qsymia, figure it out.
The final decision about whether Qsymia is right for you will be made by you and your doctor.The manufacturer recommends usage based on your body mass index.If you have a body mass index of 30 or higher, Qsymia may be recommended as part of an overall weight loss program.If you also have a weight related health condition, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes, Qsymia may be recommended.
Step 2: If you are pregnant, tell your doctor.
Cleft palate is a serious birth defect that can be caused by Qsymia.If it is possible for you to become pregnant while on Qsymia, you should get a pregnancy test and use effective birth control measures.If you discover you are pregnant while on Qsymia, stop taking the medication and tell your doctor.You or your doctor can report the pregnancy to FDA MedWatch at 1-800-FDA-1088 or the Qsymia Pregnancy Surveillance Program at 1-888-998-4887.
Step 3: There are other reasons you shouldn't take Qsymia.
If you have glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors within the past 14 days, or are allergic to any of the ingredients in Qsymia, you shouldn't take this medication.Discuss your medical history, allergies, and all the supplements you have recently taken with your doctor.
Step 4: Discuss how to stop Qsymia.
If you need to stop Qsymia because you have become pregnant or are experiencing side effects, don't quit "cold turkey." Instead, follow your doctor's specific guidance for tapering off the medication.For 1-2 weeks, you may be advised to take Qsymia every other day instead of daily.The risk of developing seizures or other side effects is reduced by the shortening of the time.
Step 5: You should start a diet and exercise program.
You can lose weight with this medication if you combine it with a healthy diet and regular exercise.Your doctor can help you develop a diet and exercise regimen that works for you.Since Qsymia can cause side effects like an increased heart rate or decreased perspiration, your doctor may advise slowly easing into an exercise program until you know the medication's effects on you.
Step 6: For 14 days, take 1 capsule each morning.
The pill should be swallowed whole with a glass of water.It can be taken before or after breakfast.The capsule is purple and white.The dosage is 25 percent.Take it as soon as you remember if you miss a dose.If it's close to time for your next dose, just skip the missed one.Qsymia is delivered in a delayed-release capsule, so do not chew or crush it.
Step 7: For 10 weeks, take 1 capsule each morning.
During the 2-week starter period, you will evaluate how Qsymia affects you.It looks different, but you will take it the same way.The capsule is partially purple and partially yellow.It has a labeled dose of 7.5 million/46 million.
Step 8: Evaluate your progress with your doctor.
The general goal is to have reduced your weight by 3% after 3 months of combining daily Qsymia capsule with diet and exercise.Depending on your circumstances, your goals will vary.If you have achieved your goal, your doctor will recommend that you continue on the current dose.If you haven't lost a lot of weight after 12 weeks, your doctor will either give you a break from the medication for a couple of weeks or increase your dose.
Step 9: If recommended, take a daily Titration capsule.
If you have shown limited or no progress on the lower dosages after 3 months, your doctor may transition you to the highest dose.You will take a daily capsule at the Titration dosage level during these 2 weeks.The capsule is yellow and black.In the morning, you will take a single pill whole with water.
Step 10: For 10 weeks, start each day with a high dose capsule.
You will move up to the High Dose after 2 weeks on the Titration level.The capsule is partially yellow and partially white.It has a labeled dosage of 15 million/ 92 million.
Step 11: Continue or reduce your dose based on your results.
If you achieve the desired weight loss results after 12 weeks on the Titration/High dosages, your doctor will likely advise you to continue with the high dose indefinitely.If you haven't seen any results, you'll probably be removed from Qsymia entirely.If the High Dose is proving effective but causing problematic side effects, your doctor may decrease your dosage but keep you on Qsymia.If your doctor recommends that you stop taking the high dose of Qsymia, you should switch to taking 1 dose every other day for at least a week before stopping.It will reduce your risk of seizures.
Step 12: If you have serious eye problems, report them right away.
If you experience a sudden decrease in vision, you should immediately contact your doctor.A sudden increase in eye pressure can be caused by Qsymia.You should not take Qsymia if you already have glaucoma.
Step 13: Don't wait to see the side effects of a pounding heartbeat.
Qsymia can cause a rapid and/or irregular heart rate in some patients.During these episodes, you may experience a pounding in your chest.If this happens to you, tell your doctor right away.It is critical that you contact your doctor if you have a pre-existing heart condition.
Step 14: Inform your doctor of any side effects.
Tell your doctor if you experience any of the following.Your doctor may want you to stop taking the medication if the side effects are life threatening.It's a good idea to tell your doctor about some serious side effects right away.
Step 15: Prepare for possible changes to your medication.
If you have high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes, you may need to change your medication.If your blood sugar readings drop, you may need a medication adjustment.If you have HBP or type 2 diabetes, talk to your doctor about what to watch for and what adjustments may need to be made while on Qsymia.
Step 16: Milder side effects can be given advice from your doctor.
Some side effects may not be enough to stop Qsymia.If any of the following occur frequently or become more than a minor annoyance, tell your doctor.