Weight-Loss Drug Effective despite Topamax Side Effects

Durham, NCAccording to a new study conducted by researchers at Duke University Medical Center, the weight-loss drug Qnexa appears to be effective despite containing Topamax, which has been linked to various side effects.

HealthDay reports that in the study, obese patients taking a high dose of the experimental weight-loss drug lost an average of 22 pounds over one year, while still lowering their cholesterol and blood pressure numbers.

Qnexa, which is a combination of phentermine and topiramate (Topamax), was recently refused approval by the US Food and Drug Administration because there was not enough information on the risk of heart problems and birth defects associated with the drug.

According to the news source, Topamax has been linked to an increased risk of oral cleft birth defects in babies born to women who took the medicine.

The new study, however, found that "the combination of topiramate and phentermine when administered with some lifestyle counseling could be a valuable treatment for obesity," said lead researcher Dr. Kishore Gadde, an assistant professor at Duke.

In addition to the association with oral cleft birth defects, the use of Topamax can cause memory problems and irritability, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information.