Topiramate has been proven to be a successful weight loss drug for those who can tolerate the side effects that go with it according to the results of a meta-analysis of previously published studies which will be presented at The Endocrine Society’s 93rd Annual Meeting in Boston. Topiramate is used in medicine as an anti-convulsant and for the prevention of migraines.
Data on 3,300 patients who were overweight were collected and those who were taking the drug for 4 months at least, lost on average 11.8 pounds more than those taking the placebo pills but evidence of the safety of the drug as a monotherapy for weight loss is non-existent at present. The length of time one takes the drug and the dosage is the decider when it comes to weight loss achieved.
The results show that a dosage of between 96 to 200mg per day and for duration of more than 28 weeks saw the best results in weight loss. Patients were 7 more likely to lose more than 10% of their original body weight. Side effects of Topiramate included burning around the mouth, strange tastes, slower cognitive abilities and a reduction in the ability to move. Concentration and memory were also affected.
Those who took part in the study were twice as likely to stop taking the treatment as a result of the side effects than those who were taking the placebo but the weight loss experienced by those who had tolerated the side effects was more impressive than other weight loss drugs that have tried to gain the approval of the FDA in recent years. We would not even consider prescribing this drug for weight loss without a wider safety study.