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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is Topamax Advisable For Weight Loss?

Been taking topamax for about 2 months fod weight loss reading side affects on line of hair loss memory loss ect. Have had tingling in hands ans feet and nose and some brain fog. Lost 11 pounds so far . Dont want to have hair loss or permanent damage to anything else should i take this drug?? Also noticed eye not so clear ad usual.
Tue, 31 Mar 2020
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,

It is not advisable for weight loss. Topiramate is commonly prescribed for the treatment of seizures (epilepsy), bipolar disorder (manic depressive psychosis) and migraine. FDA has not approved it for the treatment of obesity. Its common side effects include anxiety, ataxia, confusion, diarrhea, diplopia, drowsiness, dysphasia, fatigue, lack of concentration, memory impairment, nervousness, psychomotor disturbance, speech disturbance, altered taste sensation, hair loss, visual disturbances, and weight loss.

Weight loss appears to be dose-dependent that is, higher doses of topamax cause more weight loss beside other side effects as listed above. The hair loss is reversible upon stopping topamax. I advise you to stop taking Topamax and consult your doctor for an alternate effective medication for the treatment of obesity.

Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali, General & Family Physician
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Is Topamax Advisable For Weight Loss?

Hi, It is not advisable for weight loss. Topiramate is commonly prescribed for the treatment of seizures (epilepsy), bipolar disorder (manic depressive psychosis) and migraine. FDA has not approved it for the treatment of obesity. Its common side effects include anxiety, ataxia, confusion, diarrhea, diplopia, drowsiness, dysphasia, fatigue, lack of concentration, memory impairment, nervousness, psychomotor disturbance, speech disturbance, altered taste sensation, hair loss, visual disturbances, and weight loss. Weight loss appears to be dose-dependent that is, higher doses of topamax cause more weight loss beside other side effects as listed above. The hair loss is reversible upon stopping topamax. I advise you to stop taking Topamax and consult your doctor for an alternate effective medication for the treatment of obesity. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali, General & Family Physician