If your BMI is 30 or higher (considered obese), Qsymia may be recommended as part of an overall weight loss program, along with exercise and a healthy diet. If your BMI is 27 or higher (considered overweight), Qsymia may be recommended if you also have a weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes.

If you find out you’re pregnant while you’re on Qsymia, stop taking the medication and tell your doctor immediately. You or your doctor should also report the pregnancy to FDA MedWatch at 1-800-FDA-1088 and the Qsymia Pregnancy Surveillance Program at 1-888-998-4887.

Discuss your medical history, allergies, and all medications and supplements you currently take (or have recently taken) with your doctor.

You may, for instance, be advised to take Qsymia every other day (instead of daily) for 1-2 weeks before stopping altogether. Tapering significantly reduces your risk of developing seizures or other side effects.

Since Qsymia can cause side effects like an increased heart rate or decreased perspiration,[9] X Trustworthy Source US Food and Drug Administration U. S. government agency responsible for promoting public health Go to source your doctor may advise slowly easing into an exercise program until you know the medication’s effects on you.

The Starter capsule is purple with white print. Its labeled dosage is 3. 75 mg/25 mg. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s nearly time for your next dose, just skip the missed one instead of “doubling up. “[11] X Research source Qsymia is delivered in a delayed-release capsule, so do not crush or chew on it—swallow it whole.

This capsule is partially purple with white print, and partially yellow with black print. Its labeled dosage is 7. 5 mg/46 mg.

If you have achieved your 12-week goal, your doctor will likely advise that you continue on the current 7. 5 mg/46 mg dose. If there has been limited or no weight loss after 12 weeks, your doctor will either taper you off the medication over a 1-2 week period, or step up your dosage to the Titration and eventually High Dose levels. [14] X Research source

The Titration capsule is yellow with black print. Its labeled dosage is 11. 25 mg/69 mg. As before, you’ll swallow a single pill whole with water once a day, in the morning.

This capsule is partially yellow with black print, and partially white with black print. Its labeled dosage is 15 mg/92 mg.

It’s also possible that your doctor may decrease your dosage but keep you on Qsymia—if the High Dose is proving effective but causing problematic side effects, for instance. If your doctor decides to taper you off the high dose of Qsymia, they will probably recommend that you switch to taking 1 dose every other day for at least a week before stopping altogether. This will reduce your risk of seizures or other serious withdrawal symptoms. [17] X Research source

You shouldn’t take Qsymia if you already have glaucoma.

If you have a pre-existing heart condition, it is even more critical that you contact your doctor immediately.

Insomnia Seizures High blood pressure Chest pain Kidney stone symptoms or painful urination Swelling in your legs or feet Irregular heartbeat Rapid breathing Increased body temperature and decreased sweating Concentration, memory, and speech difficulties, such as slurred speech or having a hard time choosing your words Decreased appetite and energy levels Bone pain or broken bones Loss of consciousness Eye pain or changes in your eyes or vision, such as vision loss, blurred vision, or red eyes Vomiting Sudden, unexplained fatigue Decreased alertness Severe headaches Weakness on 1 side of your body New or increased suicidal thoughts New or worse depression or anxiety Feeling agitated, restless, or irritable Panic attacks Acting more aggressive, or being more angry or violent Becoming more reckless (acting on dangerous impulses) An extreme increase in activity or talking (mania) Other major changes in mood or behavior

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.

Numbness or tingling in the hands, arms, feet, or face Dizziness Changes in the way foods taste Trouble sleeping Constipation Dry mouth Metallic taste