Topamax for Weight Loss – Does it Really Work?

Topamax, also known as Topiramate is a medication that is administered to prevent convulsion. This drug is used to treat epilepsy and is also given to prevent migraine. It can also help lose weight along with phentermine. In the same manner, Topamax is also used to treat bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder.

While Topamax has shown potential for aiding weight loss when used in conjunction with phentermine, its primary therapeutic application remains in the management of seizure disorders (1). Despite its efficacy in reducing seizures, the exact mechanisms underlying its weight loss effects remain unclear.

In fact, there’s speculation that this drug can affect the calcium channels and voltage-gated sodium channels of the brain. It is also believed that Topamax can affect carbonic anhydrase isoenzymes, AMPA receptors, and GABA receptors.

Does Topiramate Cause Weight Loss

As mentioned above, Topiramate is used as an off-label drug for weight loss. Many people have testified to its effectiveness, but it won’t work for some. This drug won’t give the best weight loss result when taken alone. But, it is one of the ingredients used in the formulation of Qysmia.

The anti-convulsant property of Topiramate can calm the nerve cells in your brain. Thus, binge eating is prevented which is the key to losing weight (2). It gives you the feeling of fullness as it suppresses your appetite.

How Does Topamax Help Weight Loss?

The deemed mechanism of Topamax to help weight isn’t supported by scientific proof. However, certain reports taking this drug affects your taste buds, thus making some foods seem not appetizing. With this, you may avoid eating and eventually lose weight.

Some factors influence the effects of Topamax on weight loss.

• Appetite reduction

Many people taking Topamax experienced appetite suppression. It may be because it affects the reward center of the brain. It alters the processing of the rewards, thus people feel less hungry and experience fewer food cravings.

• Hormone alterations

It is believed that this drug alters the level of hormones like leptin and cortisol. It’s because the drug may reduce the amount of leptin present in cortisol. When the level of leptin is reduced, an individual may feel less hungry. In the same manner, if the cortisol level is reduced, less fat will be stored in your body which is helpful for weight loss.

• Loss of taste

People taking Topamax as medication have been noticing that their sense of taste is negatively affected. That’s why it results in eating smaller amounts of food.

• Changes in metabolism

This drug may speed up your metabolism that may lead to losing weight

• Ketosis

Topamax affects blood sugar levels and insulin which may result in ketosis. It is the state in which your body uses up the stored fat for energy and leads to losing weight.

• Reduced saliva production

Another theory studied about the effect of Topamax on weight loss is that it reduces saliva production (3).  If this happens, you may experience poor taste that may affect your normal appetite and eventually lead to weight loss.

Who Should Use This Medicine?

If you’re thinking of using Topamax for weight loss make sure to study some specifications before taking the drug.  If you want to lose weight decently, make sure to consult first your doctor. Your healthcare provider may prescribe Qysmia.

On the other hand, you can obtain the best results if you take it along with modifying your lifestyle and diet as well as engaging in regular exercise.

Who Should Not Use This Medication?

This drug is not recommended for those who have a history or currently experiencing heart disease, high blood pressure, and suffer from kidney stones.

Likewise, pregnant women should not dare take Topamax as it may cause birth defects such as cleft lip and palate.

Topamax Dosage for Weight Loss

Topamax is available in tablet and capsule forms (25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg). You can start with a low dose of 25 or 50 mg per day, twice a day with or without food. The truth is this drug is not for weight loss, but an individual may experience weight loss as a side effect.

However, there are instances when doctors prescribe this drug for weight loss. The dosage may start at 25 mg and gradually increase to reach the sufficient dose. The maximum dosage is 400 mg, but many people who have reached the sufficient dose notice that the weight loss effect stops.

It was reported that people taking between 100 mg and 200 mg daily have experienced effortless weight loss. Using this drug within such a dose range has lost at least 20% of baseline body weight. With this, using Topamax for more than 200 mg may result in drastic weight loss.

• Topiramate 25 mg for Weight Loss

As mentioned earlier, Topamax is prescribed for people experiencing seizures or epilepsy. The dosage starts from 25 mg and gradually increases to achieve the maintenance dose.

This is also applicable if you use the drug for weight loss. It should be taken at night and once the dosage increases, it will be divided into two doses, one in the morning and the other at night. The 25 mg tablets are biconvex, round and white.

• Topiramate 50 mg for Weight Loss:

The frequency of taking the 50 mg tablet is the same as the 25 mg tablet. Unlike the latter, the 50 mg tablet is yellow. You can continue taking this drug as recommended by your doctor.

Side Effects of Topamax/Topiramate

Like any other medication, Topiramate also has its side effects and the severity may vary from one person to another. If you experience any of the following side effects, consult your doctor immediately.

• Allergic reactions

Some people who take this drug experience allergic reactions like swelling of the lips, face, trunks, and limbs. May also notice skin rash, hives, flushing, ulcers and blisters.

• Severe skin reaction

This may include Stevens-Johnsons syndrome, a severe, life-threatening skin reaction. It is manifested by the separation of the upper and lower layer of the skin. Another is erythema multiforme in which red spots may lead to blisters.

• Eye problem

If you notice changes in your vision while taking Topomax you should see your doctor at once. This drug may cause maculopathy that affects the small spot of the retina called the macula. You may experience high pressure in your eyes that may lead to glaucoma.

Common side effects of taking Topamax include diarrhea, drowsiness, tiredness, tingling feeling in the arms and legs, change in behavior or mood, changes in focus, slurred speech, and clumsiness.

FAQ

Can I stop taking Topamax suddenly if I’ve lost enough weight?

No, stopping Topamax abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms.

Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication.

Is Topamax safe for weight loss?

While Topamax can be effective for weight loss in some people, it also carries risks. It’s essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks with your doctor.

Can I take Topamax for weight loss without a prescription?

No, Topamax is a prescription medication.

Can I combine Topamax with other weight loss methods?

Combining Topamax with diet and exercise can enhance weight loss results. However, always consult your doctor before making changes to your weight loss plan.

Is Topamax addictive?

Topamax is not considered addictive.

Final Verdict

Although Topamax helps to lose weight, you should remember that it does not bear FDA approval. You should be aware of the possible side effects that you may encounter that’s why it is essential to consult first your doctor before starting it.

Use this drug only if recommended by your doctor to avoid possible life-threatening issues. Have a regular checkup with your healthcare provider while using it.