Phentermine / topiramate and Dry Mouth: What Users Say

• Cra...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 8, 2020

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I started Qsymia in late September of 2020, so I have been on it for almost 100 days. Early on, I was losing a whole lot of weight. I started off with a 1700 calorie diet, I didn't start with exercising due to my weight (325 was my starting weight). I was down to about 294 by the beginning of October (so late August to beginning of October I lost 31 lbs), and I began elliptical training slowly for about 15 minutes, then 20 minutes all the way to 45 minutes by November, weight loss tapers off from crazy amounts to respectable amounts. I'm now down to 2-3 lbs a week average, and I'm currently down to 264. I have had a great experience so far. I had to give up soda (Topimax in Qsymia makes soda taste terrible, not so much a bad thing). I pretty much drink water and bubbly here and there. Side effects: I have had dry mouth and constipation, but I can deal with that. I recommend it, it has been a godsend, and I feel great. I have gotten my energy back, and I'm eating right. What more can you ask for?"

• Ala...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• April 8, 2019

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I have been taking Qsymia for 13 months now. I am 5'7'', and was 50 when I started. I weighed 304 pounds. I have lost 105 pounds so far. I cannot praise it enough. I intend to lose another 40lb or so. It has been a lifesaver for me. My energy is through the roof, and the benefits to my self-confidence are immeasurable. My cholesterol went from 225 down to 185. So, as for side effects, I do experience bouts of constipation. I try to keep myself fully hydrated, which definitely helps, and occasionally use fiber supplements as needed. In the beginning, there was some dry mouth, but that passed. Also, I had some occasional tingling in my fingers early on, but that has subsided as well. I know it's not for everyone, but for me, it has worked wonders. The cost has been an issue, but I think of how much I used to spend on snack foods, takeout, and the like, and it doesn't even compare. I am still way ahead of the game."

• Dan...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• November 4, 2019

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I was on Qsymia two years ago and successfully lost 55 lbs. I gained it all back again and I recently went back on it. Here's my story. I'm a 43-year-old male, initial weight is 203 lbs at 5'8" tall. My doctor, because I tolerated the drug well, put me on 11.25 mg immediately and within 2 weeks, I lost 14 lbs. Following 2 weeks, I've just started 15 mg and I've tolerated that well and lost 4 more pounds in 2 days, so things are looking up. From experience, my past side effects were: dry mouth, tingling in my hands and feet and that's about it. Every month, my doctor will ask for a weigh-in, in addition to my blood pressure measurement. As long as those two elements are good, he will continue prescribing. My insurance thankfully covers this (be sure your doctor marks down for insurance purposes that you are OBESE so it's covered!) so I pay only $20.00 out of pocket. My goal is to get back to 150 lbs, which I don't believe I'll have a problem doing. It's just keeping it off!"

• Ano...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 17, 2020

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "So I have been taking it for a couple of months now and have lost a total of 50 pounds. In the beginning, the only side effects I have encountered have been dry mouth, nausea, and constipation. However, now on the third month, both of my legs have gotten numb and stayed numb for the last couple of days. I have gone to several doctors, and they are not sure what it is from. I was wondering if anyone else encountered this problem?"

• Bec...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 26, 2015

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I have been using this medication for 1 month and have lost 15 lbs. I have been very fortunate, and the only side effect I have experienced is a bit of a dry mouth. That has not been bothersome, it has only encouraged me to drink more water. I have continued exercising 4-5 days a week. What has been a real blessing is I have not been obsessed with food, and I cannot recall a time when food was a main focus of my thoughts."

• jfk...
• April 18, 2019

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I have suffered, like my entire family, with weight problems my entire life. Unfortunately, some injuries to my lower body joints while serving as a Paratrooper made exercise difficult and painful. Once I had my hip replaced and knees fixed, I worked with my doctor and he suggested Qsymia. It worked immediately. I still had to struggle a bit and the side effects were annoying, but not debilitating. So far I am down almost 70 lbs in a year and still going. Of course, the insurance company won't pay, so be prepared to do lots of shopping around. That being said, with the weight I have lost, I am back to hiking with my family in New York (two peaks in one day) from 48-50 pants to 38-40 pants and a blood pressure that went from 150/90 to 106/70. Look, not everyone will do as well, some will do better, but this pill really worked, and a bit of dry mouth, constipation, and sleeplessness are a lot better than gastric bypass!"

• YaS...
• September 20, 2014

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I'm 5'7 and 6 weeks ago I weighed 210 lbs. I started at the low dose for two weeks and lost 8 lbs, and at the middle dose, I lost 17 lbs more. I've had minimal side effects: toe and finger numbness that lasts for a few minutes and some dry mouth. Certainly nothing that I would consider stopping for. I love this pill. I have no interest in food and am so rarely hungry. It is pricey - please go to their website and get the first two weeks free and $100 off every month after that. It is worth it, I think I'm saving that in food costs."

• Ptr...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 5, 2019

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "61-year-old female. I started Qsymia, the 3.75 prescription, the first week of April. Did that for two weeks, then moved on to the 7.5 dosage. I started at 388 lbs and now weigh 332 lbs, lost 56 lbs in three months. I like it, there are side effects. Dry mouth and stuffy nose are the worst for me. I also get occasional headaches. But it has totally taken away my appetite and my emotional eating, as well as letting me control my sweet cravings. My doctor is letting me stay on it for another four months (and hopefully longer). I have been morbidly obese all my life. I had a gastric bypass 18 years ago and put most of the weight back on. This is the first time I have felt a glimmer of hope in feeling control over my eating habits. I wish everyone success in their endeavors and hope you give it a try."

• Nan...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• April 17, 2015

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "At 220 pounds and 5'0'', I was out of control with my eating. My BMI was 43. I had to do something. I tried every over-the-counter diet pill there was. Finally, my doctor prescribed Qsymia. I have been on it since August 2014 and have lost 89 pounds. My goal is to lose a total of 110 pounds. Dry mouth and constipation are the worst side effects, but I can deal with those. I have gone from a size 22 pants to a size 12, bust size has gone from 40DD to 36C. I now know how to eat and what not to eat to keep the weight off. I will continue on Qsymia until August. 21 more pounds to go to reach my goal of 110!"

• Str...
• September 18, 2015

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I'm a mom with 4 kids, ranging in age from 12 years to 18 months. I resorted to this medication after being unsuccessful at losing weight on my own by counting calories, exercising regularly 4-5 times a week, etc. So my doctor suggested giving this a try. I'm beyond pleased that I listened to her! I started out with the 2-week free trial at the lower dose of 3.75. I was happy with that, and seeing no side effects, I went on to taking the next dose of 7.5 for 3 months (12 weeks). The only side effect I had was an occasional dry mouth, which I battled by drinking more water, which is recommended with this drug anyways. I lost about 25 pounds--I went from 178 to 152. I've been off now for 2 months and have not gained back any of the weight!"

• Pig...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• October 31, 2014

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I am 62 years old, and I have been taking Qsymia for 2 months and have lost 22 pounds. Qsymia does require me to drink a lot of water and has controlled a lot of my 'sugar' eating. I was a Diet Dr. Pepper addict and cannot stand the taste of one now. Water has totally replaced all diet drinks. I was very hesitant to start this medication for fear of side effects, but have not had any issues other than dry mouth. Because of some orthopedic issues, I am not able to participate in physical exercise - my weight is still dropping. I have also seen a definite drop in my blood pressure with this medication; therefore, requiring changes in my blood pressure medication. I hope to continue on this medication for two or three more months."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 1, 2015

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I started Qsymia in October 2014 with the free two-week starter pack at the lowest dosage and then moved to the next dosage level. It immediately began to work. I did experience dry mouth, a very slight tingle in my fingers, and confused thinking for the first month. Those side effects were all temporary and did pass. As for my appetite, it has changed considerably. It is under control, I eat what I decide to eat! I'm not hungry, not thinking about food, and not overeating. I am 53, had not been exercising, and have lost 14 lbs in 2 1/2 months. However, I am starting my exercise program today because I do want the full benefit of both the weight loss and to be in good physical health. My goal is to reach 127 lbs by May of this year. Good luck to all!"

• Lor...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 12, 2025

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "65°F, many arthritic disabilities, so unable to exercise. I started the 3.75 dosage on 9/16/24 and lost 6.5 pounds those first 2 weeks. Since starting the 7.5, I've now lost another 32.5 pounds for a total of 40 pounds in 4 months. I've had dry mouth and constipation like a lot of folks, but it's manageable. I had a gastric sleeve in 2013 and went from 333 to 234, then gained back to 321. The last few years I've lost into the upper 290s. I started Q at 290 and I'm at 250 right now. I think because I'm of the former sleeve and the Q, I have absolutely NO appetite and have to force myself to eat... still not eating enough, but I'm doing labs and being monitored by my doctor. Everything is great, but my protein is still slightly low (it's been low the last couple of years). I only regret not finding this sooner."

• Chu...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 7, 2020

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I started this medication (combo of phentermine and Topamax) on 4/1/2020 at 202 lbs, 5'5. As of today, 5/7/2020, I am down to 182.4. I don't feel hungry. The main side effect is dry mouth. I drink a gallon of water a day to offset the dryness and I believe it's helping the weight loss too. Wonderful experience!"

• Jac...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• November 20, 2019

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I am a 48-year-old female started on 7.5 mg of Qsymia. My starting weight was 238 lbs, and six days later, my weight was 221 lbs. The first couple of days, I had very low energy and felt a little groggy, but I had to learn to force myself to eat because I don’t have an appetite. I do have slight blurred vision at times. I feel like it’s worth it for the weight loss. I have dry mouth as well. I have done absolutely no exercise at all but plan to start."

• Lai...
• March 8, 2015

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I started Qsymia on the 24th of February 2015. I'm 5'2" and was weighing 192. I weighed myself Thursday, March 5th and lost 10 lbs. The only side effect I get is dry mouth, so I drink lots of water. I totally cut carbs, sugars, and soda. I'm excited to start the 7.5 mg tomorrow, I will keep you posted. I was at the borderline for diabetes, and I sure don't want to be diabetic. I'm totally loving this medication."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 17, 2015

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I started taking the medication five months ago at a starting weight of about 325 and have lost a little over 70 pounds since then. Only significant side effects have been dry mouth and increased thirst, which I count as beneficial because they have caused me to significantly increase my water intake. Weight loss was very rapid at first (probably water weight) and then leveled off to 2-3.5 pounds per week. Qsymia definitely helps control hunger, but it does not eliminate your ability to eat a lot if you choose to. It just gives you the choice. So you have to do your part by making diet changes (limiting portion sizes, eliminating sodas, limiting sweets and fast foods, etc.) and exercising to the extent you are able to get results."

• eea...
• May 26, 2021

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I am 59 years old, 5'6" tall, 326 pounds. On April 5, 2021, I received the basic dosage and initiated my 1500-calorie intake, as well as 7000 daily steps. As of May 19, 2021, my weight was 304. I'm down 22 pounds. I'm extremely happy with the results. Since chemotherapy in 2015, I have gained over 130 pounds. The Mayo Clinic recognized my health issues and quickly recommended Qsymia. My side effects are similar to other posters: constipation, numbness in hands, mild insomnia, and dry mouth. As for what I am doing to assist in my weight loss, I stopped drinking all carbonated drinks and no more sugar. I am now adding an additional 30 minutes of stationary recumbent bike exercise to the 7000 steps. I drink two 16 oz bottles of water every morning with my pill. I drink a minimum of 5 (16 oz) bottles a day. I use my watch and phone to track my exercise, and I document all meals on an app called MyFitnessPal. I take screenshots of all my exercise and food information and send it to my nutritionist in a weekly email."

• KD3...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• November 14, 2014

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I've been on it for 11 days so far and I've lost 22 lbs. I started out at 301 lbs and now I'm 279 lbs. That's just with the free starter dose. I completely cut out carbs, sweets, and soda. I went for a weigh-in today, and my doctor almost didn't recognize me. Most people lose an average of 5-7 lbs their first 2 weeks, but my 2 weeks isn't up until Monday. I haven't exercised at all due to my 10-15 hour work days. I told my doctor I think I lost it this fast because I have no desire to eat. All I do is drink water. I try and force myself to eat, but all I get in is a few bites of a protein bar all day. I have severe dry mouth. I'm going to try the next strength up next week and see how that goes. My goal is 199 lbs."

• Ame...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 15, 2019

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I am a 43-year-old woman. At 5'4", I used Qsymia last year and went from 177 pounds down to 145 pounds (which was my goal weight) in 5 months. It was amazing! The only side effects I noticed were dry mouth (which had an upside because it kept me drinking water all day long), and I also experienced finger and toe tingling/numbness. Food still tasted about the same to me, but I had very little interest in eating. I have no cravings at all, and I was full of energy. I couldn't believe how quick and easy it was for me to drop the pounds. Unfortunately, now one year later, I have returned to unhealthy habits and gained the weight back. I just had a visit with my doctor today, and we decided that I should try Qsymia again. I am very excited to get back on this medication because I know it works for me."

• Tir...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• November 5, 2014

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I began taking Qsymia about 3 weeks ago and I am down a little over 10 lbs already, which is awesome! I am 5'5'' and weighed 184 when I began taking it. Had my 3rd child about a year ago and needed some help losing the weight this time. Diet soda definitely tastes flat and gross now, and I used to love it. I have also noticed that I seem to space out and forget things a lot more than I used to. I do work full-time and have an infant that doesn't sleep well to take care of, but I (and my husband) definitely notice a change since I've been on it. I also get dry mouth, but usually only notice it in the mornings when I wake up since I make sure to drink plenty of fluids during the day. Really not hungry at all - love it!"

• CA1...
• May 9, 2013

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I have been taking Qsymia for 6 months now, on the highest dose at this point. I have been taking it exactly how it is supposed to be taken per my doctor. I have physical limitations (bad knees) that keep me from being able to exercise much. Walking is about all I am able to do. I did not change my diet radically, the Qsymia changed it for me, making me want to eat healthier because the junk food had negative effects on me and/or tasted bad. Becoming soda-free was the best thing that ever happened to me. To date, I have lost 83 pounds and have 57 more to go and know I will lose it with the help of this. Would I recommend this to people? Absolutely!! Is it worth the tingling in the feet? The dry mouth? YES!"

• No ...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 24, 2013

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I started Qsymia on 02/08/2013. 237 lbs. No self-control. No motivation. Insulin-dependent diabetic, cholesterol, high blood pressure. Felt hopeless. Started Qsymia as a last resort. Dropped 14 pounds the first month. Slowly started feeling better, getting motivation, taking control. Started cardio, eating right. To date, 55 pounds gone. I FOUND ME again. It is slow, but this medicine saved my life. Side effects: dry mouth, all sweets taste horrible - which is a bonus, no appetite, can't sleep. Nothing I can't handle."

• Nyc...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 22, 2014

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "Over the years I have gained a good amount of weight, and it seems no matter what diet I tried, after 2 weeks I found myself cheating and felt like a failure. I was always in good physical shape, but in my 30s, that changed. My doctor suggested Qsymia to me and put me on it in June. Since then, I have successfully lost 29 pounds. I exercise, I eat what I want but the portions are controlled, and I only treat myself to a sliver of cake or sweets once a week. I exercise 3 times a week. I have had no side effects except once in a while a dry mouth. I give Qsymia a thumbs up -- it has given me back my confidence and has allowed me to learn to control my eating."

• Cor...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• January 29, 2014

Phentermine / topiramate for Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "Qsymia makes me think like a thin person. I no longer have any compulsion to think about food. I have been obese for 98% of my adult life (I am 64) and tried everything. With Qsymia, I can make all the right decisions (and a few wrong ones) that I have known all along I needed to make. Now, just like a thin person, I am not driven to every fast food door, seconds or thirds of meals, eating a whole container or bag of anything. With minimal effort and smart decisions, I have gone from obese to within 5 pounds of normal weight for my height. No notable side effects - a little constipation when I don't eat much and a dry mouth. If I forget to take Qsymia for a day or two I know right away - my old eating habits come right back."