Because the side effects can be very serious, you should not take Topamax if you are only looking to shed a few pounds or if you are not seriously struggling with weight loss. [3] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source There are other, safer options for weight loss. Talk to your doctor for more information. Off-label means that Topamax has not been officially approved as a weight loss drug, but some doctors may still prescribe it to treat the condition.
Eye problems such as glaucoma Diabetes Metabolic acidosis (high levels of acid in the blood) Liver disease Kidney Osteoporosis or other bone conditions Depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders
Your doctor may prescribe you a pill called Qsymia instead. This contains topiramate, which is the same active ingredient as in Topamax. Unlike Topamax, Qsymia is labeled to be used for weight loss. Your doctor may give you a combination of phentermine and Topamax. Follow your doctor’s instructions to take both of these pills together. [7] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Do not shop around for a doctor who will prescribe you Topamax. There are many other treatments for weight loss and eating disorders, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants, and low-calorie diets.
Taking more than the recommended dose will not help you lose weight, but it can increase your chances of dangerous side effects.
For example, you might take a dose in the morning at 8 am and a dose at night at 8 pm. If you missed your morning dose and it is noon, go ahead and take the missed dose. If you missed the morning dose and it is 6 pm, skip the missed dose and just take your evening dose.
To lose weight, you need to burn more calories than you consume. It is considered safe to lose 1 pound (0. 45 kg) a week. To do this, you will need to cut 500 calories a day from your diet. [11] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to form a low-calorie diet plan that can help you lose weight. If you have been diagnosed with an eating disorder, talk to your therapist as well to determine if a diet is right for you at this time.
You can hire a personal trainer at a local gym to a help you exercise. The trainer can help you get on an exercise regimen that will help you lose weight.
Symptoms of metabolic acidosis include fatigue, loss of appetite, increased or decreased heart rate, and difficulty thinking. If you do not treat metabolic acidosis, you may develop bone or kidney issues.
Symptoms of a kidney stone include pain in the lower sides of your abdomen, pink or red urine, nausea, frequent urination, and a persistent need to urinate. Talk to your doctor immediately if you have these issues.
Blurry vision Decreased or lack of sweating Panic attacks or increased anxiety Concentration or memory problems Muscle tremors Body temperature under 95 °F (35 °C)
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (US): 988 (you can also text this number) Crisis Services Canada: 1-833-456-4566 Samaritans (UK and Ireland): 116 123 Lifeline (Australia): 13 11 14
