Topamax (topiramate) is ananticonvulsantor a drug used to treatseizures.
It is also approved to preventmigraine headaches.
Topamax alone is not FDA-approved to treat obesity.
Getty Images / Grace Cary
BMI is a dated, flawed measure.
It does not take into account factors such asbody composition, ethnicity, sex, race, and age.
After 24 weeks, the placebo group lost an average of 2.6% of their body weight.
The topiramate groups saw their weight drop from 4.8% to 6.3%, depending on their dosage.
Another study consisted of 854 people ages 18 to 75 years with a BMI of 27 to 50.
The Topamax group also showed improved blood pressure and insulin requirements.
What Is Off-Label Use?
When a healthcare provider uses an FDA-approved drug for an unapproved use, that use is considered off-label.
When the FDA approves a drug for any use, they deem it safe for its intended uses.
How Does Topamax Work for Weight Loss?
Is There a Best Time of Day to Take Topamax?
ER formulations only need to be taken once a day, ideally at the same time each day.
it’s possible for you to take Topamax with or without food.
So, you’ll be able to take it without regard to meals and snacks.
Side Effects
Topamax can cause a range of side effects.
This measurement is available as part of anelectrolyteor metabolic lab panel.
Other potential side effects include:
Precautions: Who Should Not Take Topamax?
Topiramate is not appropriate for every population.
However, take note that antiobesity medications are indicated as add-ons to healthy lifestyle habits, not replacements.
The two mostcommon typesare Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.
Both can lead to fast and stable weight loss for many people.
Some people, however, fail to achieve their weight loss goal even with a successful surgery.
It works to suppress your appetite, resulting in lower calorie intake.
It can also make you feel more full by changing how your body uses energy.
Side effects can be a limiting factor in taking Topamax.
They may include paresthesias, impaired memory or concentration, mood changes, and sleepiness.
2023;13(9):1845.
FDA.Understanding unapproved use of approved drugs “off label”.
