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FDA Approves New Diet Drug: Phentermine-Topiramate Combo
The FDA has approved the weight-loss drug Qsymia (formerly named Qnexa; Vivus, Mountain View, CA), which now joins lorcaserin (Belviq, Arena Pharmaceuticals, San Diego, CA) as the first anti-obesity medications to enter the US market since 1999.

Qsymia, a controlled-release preparation of phentermine and topiramate in one capsule, is now indicated for use in adults with a body mass index (BMI) >30 kg/m2 or adults with a BMI of >27 kg/m2 and at least one weight-related condition such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or dyslipidemia.

The agency's statement also notes that the drug can increase heart rate, which warrants regular monitoring, and should be used with caution in people with recent unstable heart disease or stroke. The sponsor will be required to conduct a long-term, postmarketing cardiovascular outcomes trial to assess the effect of Qsymia on the risk of major adverse cardiac events.

The most common side effects of Qsymia are tingling of hands and feet (paresthesia), dizziness, altered taste sensation, insomnia, constipation, and dry mouth.
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