Why Is Qsymia a Controlled Substance?

Qsymia: An Overview

Qsymia is a prescription medication used for weight management in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater (obese) or 27 or greater (overweight) who have at least one weight-related health problem such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. It is a combination of two medications: phentermine and topiramate. Phentermine is a stimulant that suppresses appetite, while topiramate is an anticonvulsant that also helps with weight loss.

Controlled Substance Classification

Qsymia is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance by the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). This means that it has a low potential for abuse and dependence compared to other controlled substances, such as opioids or cocaine. However, it can still be habit-forming, and there is a risk of abuse and dependence, especially with long-term use.

Reasons for Controlled Substance Classification

There are a few reasons why Qsymia is classified as a controlled substance.

• Potential for Abuse: Qsymia can be abused by people who want to lose weight quickly or easily. They may take it in higher doses than prescribed or for longer periods of time than recommended. This can lead to serious side effects, including seizures, heart problems, and psychosis.
• Risk of Dependence: Qsymia can also cause dependence, which means that people who take it may feel they need to continue taking it to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and tremors.
• Diversion: Qsymia is a prescription drug, which means that it must be obtained from a doctor. However, it is possible for people to obtain Qsymia illegally, such as by buying it from someone who has a prescription or by stealing it from a pharmacy. This can lead to the misuse and abuse of Qsymia.

Qsymia Safety and Abuse Prevention

Qsymia should only be used as prescribed by a doctor. It is important to take the medication exactly as directed and to follow the doctor's instructions for monitoring weight loss and side effects. To help prevent abuse and dependence, Qsymia is only available through a special program called the Qsymia Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program. This program requires doctors to be certified in prescribing Qsymia and patients to sign a contract agreeing to use the medication safely.

Conclusion

Qsymia is a controlled substance because it has a low potential for abuse and dependence. However, it can still be habit-forming, and there is a risk of abuse and dependence, especially with long-term use. It is important to take Qsymia exactly as prescribed by a doctor and to follow the doctor's instructions for monitoring weight loss and side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why is Qsymia only available through a special program?
  • Qsymia is only available through a special program called the Qsymia Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program. This program requires doctors to be certified in prescribing Qsymia and patients to sign a contract agreeing to use the medication safely. This is because Qsymia has a low potential for abuse and dependence.
• What are the potential side effects of Qsymia?
  • The most common side effects of Qsymia include dry mouth, constipation, nausea, headache, dizziness, and trouble sleeping. More serious side effects can include seizures, heart problems, and psychosis.
• How long can I take Qsymia?
  • Qsymia should only be taken as prescribed by a doctor. The length of time you can take Qsymia will depend on your individual needs and how well you tolerate the medication.
• Can I take Qsymia if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
  • Qsymia is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• What are the alternatives to Qsymia?
  • There are a number of other prescription medications available for weight management. Your doctor can help you decide which medication is right for you.