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Qsymia

phentermine and topiramate · Capsule, Extended Release

Prescription NDA Schedule CIV TE AB RLD Official labelling
Informational index, not medical advice. Content is reproduced from public FDA and NLM data. Always confirm against the manufacturer's current prescribing information. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.

Overview

Brand name
Qsymia
Generic name
phentermine and topiramate
Dosage form
Capsule, Extended Release
Route
Oral
Marketing category
NDA · NDA
Labeler
Vivus LLC
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
CIV
Active ingredients
8
NDC product codes
4
Packages
5
Data completeness
76% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Phentermine Hydrochloride 11.25 mg/1 1302827 View
Phentermine Hydrochloride 15 mg/1 1302827 View
Phentermine Hydrochloride 3.75 mg/1 1302827 View
Phentermine Hydrochloride 7.5 mg/1 1302827 View
Topiramate 23 mg/1 1302827 View
Topiramate 46 mg/1 1302827 View
Topiramate 69 mg/1 1302827 View
Topiramate 92 mg/1 1302827 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Capsule, Extended Release
Route of administration
Oral
Presentations
9

Pharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.

Pharmacologic class

Source: NDC Directory
Established pharmacologic classes (EPC), mechanisms of action (MoA), chemical structures (CS) and physiologic effects (PE).
Class Type Browse
Appetite Suppression [PE] PE All 14 members
Cytochrome P450 2C19 Inhibitors [MoA] MoA All 93 members
Cytochrome P450 3A4 Inducers [MoA] MoA All 54 members
Decreased Central Nervous System Disorganized Electrical Activity [PE] PE All 114 members
Increased Sympathetic Activity [PE] PE All 17 members
Sympathomimetic Amine Anorectic [EPC] EPC All 13 members

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
022580
Application type
NDA · New Drug Application
Approval date
July 17, 2012
Sponsor
VIVUS LLC
Products on application
4
Submissions recorded
23
Products approved under application 022580.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
022580-001 QSYMIA CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE PHENTERMINE HYDROCHLORIDE; TOPIRAMATE Prescription AB RLD
022580-002 QSYMIA CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE PHENTERMINE HYDROCHLORIDE; TOPIRAMATE Prescription AB RLD
022580-003 QSYMIA CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE PHENTERMINE HYDROCHLORIDE; TOPIRAMATE Prescription AB RLD
022580-004 QSYMIA CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE PHENTERMINE HYDROCHLORIDE; TOPIRAMATE Prescription AB RLD RS

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
AB
Reference Listed Drug
Yes
Reference Standard
Yes

What this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing

Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.

Patents and exclusivity

Source: Orange Book
Patent listings submitted under 21 U.S.C. 355(b)(1) and (c)(2).
Patent Expires Product Substance Use code Submitted
9011906 June 9, 2028 001 No U-3398 May 13, 2015
8895057 June 9, 2028 001 No U-3398 December 18, 2014
8895058 June 9, 2028 001 No December 18, 2014
9011905 June 9, 2028 001 No May 13, 2015
9011906 June 9, 2028 002 No U-3398 May 13, 2015
8895057 June 9, 2028 002 No U-3398 December 18, 2014
9011905 June 9, 2028 002 No May 13, 2015
8895058 June 9, 2028 002 No December 18, 2014
9011906 June 9, 2028 003 No U-3398 May 13, 2015
8895057 June 9, 2028 003 No U-3398 December 18, 2014
8895058 June 9, 2028 003 No December 18, 2014
9011905 June 9, 2028 003 No May 13, 2015
9011906 June 9, 2028 004 No U-3398 May 13, 2015
8895057 June 9, 2028 004 No U-3398 December 18, 2014
8895058 June 9, 2028 004 No December 18, 2014
9011905 June 9, 2028 004 No May 13, 2015
8580298 May 15, 2029 001 No November 14, 2013
8580298 May 15, 2029 002 No —
8580298 May 15, 2029 003 No —
8580298 May 15, 2029 004 No —
8580299 June 14, 2029 001 No U-3399 November 14, 2013
8580299 June 14, 2029 002 No U-3399 —
8580299 June 14, 2029 003 No U-3399 —
8580299 June 14, 2029 004 No U-3399 —
Regulatory exclusivity periods.
Code Expires Product
M-308 September 13, 2027 001
M-308 September 13, 2027 002
M-308 September 13, 2027 003
M-308 September 13, 2027 004

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 022580.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Supplement 32 REMS Approved June 29, 2026 N/A
Supplement 31 Labeling Approved March 6, 2026 901 Required
Supplement 29 REMS Approved July 11, 2025 N/A
Supplement 26 REMS Approved November 19, 2024 N/A
Supplement 25 Efficacy Approved September 13, 2024 Standard
Supplement 24 REMS Approved February 6, 2024 N/A
Supplement 23 Labeling Approved June 28, 2023 Standard
Supplement 22 REMS Approved May 9, 2023 N/A
Supplement 21 Efficacy Approved June 24, 2022 Standard
Supplement 20 REMS Approved March 8, 2022 N/A
Supplement 19 REMS Approved March 31, 2021 N/A
Supplement 17 Labeling Approved October 19, 2020 Standard
Supplement 16 Labeling Approved March 23, 2018 Standard
Supplement 14 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved January 27, 2017 Standard
Supplement 12 Labeling Approved September 26, 2014 Standard
Supplement 11 Labeling Approved September 26, 2014 Standard
Supplement 10 REMS Approved September 26, 2014 N/A
Supplement 7 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved October 17, 2013 Standard
Supplement 8 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved September 24, 2013 Standard
Supplement 4 REMS Approved April 16, 2013 N/A
Supplement 5 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved March 19, 2013 Standard
Supplement 1 REMS Approved November 1, 2012 N/A
Original application 1 Type 4 - New Combination Approved July 17, 2012 Standard

Review documents

  • 0 · Supplement · July 15, 2026
  • 0 · Supplement · July 2, 2026
  • 0 · Supplement · March 12, 2026
  • 0 · Supplement · March 9, 2026
  • 0 · Supplement · March 6, 2026
  • 0 · Supplement · July 15, 2025
  • 0 · Supplement · July 14, 2025
  • 0 · Supplement · November 21, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · November 20, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · September 16, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · September 16, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · February 7, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · June 29, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · June 29, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · May 10, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · June 30, 2022
  • 0 · Supplement · June 27, 2022
  • 0 · Supplement · June 27, 2022
  • 0 · Supplement · March 9, 2022
  • 0 · Supplement · April 1, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · April 1, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · October 21, 2020
  • 0 · Supplement · October 21, 2020
  • 0 · Supplement · March 29, 2018
  • 0 · Supplement · March 27, 2018
  • 0 · Supplement · September 30, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · September 30, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · September 30, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · September 30, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · September 30, 2014

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260422). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20260422

Recent Major Changes

openFDA Drug Labeling

Contraindications ( 4 ) 03/2026 Warnings and Precautions ( 5.13 , 5.15 ) 03/2026

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE QSYMIA is indicated in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity to reduce excess body weight and maintain weight reduction long term in: Adults and pediatric patients aged 12 years and older with obesity Adults with overweight in the presence of at least one weight-related comorbid condition QSYMIA is a combination of phentermine, a sympathomimetic amine anorectic, and topiramate, indicated in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity to reduce excess body weight and maintain weight reduction long term in: Adults and pediatric patients aged 12 years and older with obesity ( 1 ). Adults with overweight in the presence of at least one weight-related comorbid condition ( 1 ). Limitations of Use: The effect of QSYMIA on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality has not been established ( 1 ). The safety and effectiveness of QSYMIA in combination with other products intended for weight loss, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, and herbal preparations, have not been established ( 1 ). Limitations of Use The effect of QSYMIA on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality has not been established. The safety and effectiveness of QSYMIA in combination with other products intended for weight loss, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal preparations, have not been established.

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Take orally once daily in morning. Avoid administration in evening to prevent insomnia ( 2.2 ). Recommended starting dosage is 3.75 mg/23 mg (phentermine mg/topiramate mg) daily for 14 days; then increase to 7.5 mg/46 mg daily ( 2.2 ). Escalate dosage based on weight loss in adults or BMI reduction in pediatric patients. See the Full Prescribing Information for details regarding discontinuation or dosage escalation ( 2.2 ). Gradually discontinue 15 mg/92 mg dosage to prevent possible seizure ( 2.3 ). Do not exceed 7.5 mg/46 mg dosage for patients with moderate or severe renal impairment or patients with moderate hepatic impairment ( 2.4 , 2.5 ). 2.1 Recommended Testing Prior to and During Treatment with QSYMIA Prior to QSYMIA initiation and during treatment with QSYMIA, the following is recommended: Obtain a negative pregnancy test before initiating QSYMIA in patients who can become pregnant and monthly during QSYMIA therapy. QSYMIA is contraindicated during pregnancy [see Contraindications (4) , Warnings and Precautions (5.1) , and Use in Specific Populations (8.3) ] . Obtain a blood chemistry profile that includes bicarbonate, creatinine, and potassium in all patients, and glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus on antidiabetic medication prior to initiating QSYMIA treatment and periodically during treatment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7 , 5.8 , 5.12) ] . 2.2 Recommended Dosage and Administration The recommended dosage, titration, and administration of QSYMIA are as follows: Take QSYMIA orally once daily in the morning with or without food. Avoid administration of QSYMIA in the evening due to the possibility of insomnia. The recommended starting dosage of QSYMIA is one capsule (containing 3.75 mg of phentermine and 23 mg of topiramate) (3.75 mg/23 mg) taken orally once daily for 14 days; after 14 days increase to the recommended dosage of QSYMIA 7.5 mg/46 mg orally once daily. After 12 weeks of treatment with QSYMIA 7.5 mg/46 mg, evaluate weight loss for adults or BMI reduction for pediatric patients aged 12 years and older. If an adult patient has not lost at least 3% of baseline body weight or a pediatric patient has not experienced a reduction of at least 3% of baseline BMI, increase the dosage to QSYMIA 11.25 mg/69 mg orally once daily for 14 days; followed by an increase in the dosage to QSYMIA 15 mg/92 mg orally once daily. After 12 weeks of treatment with QSYMIA 15 mg/92 mg, evaluate weight loss for adults or BMI reduction for pediatric patients aged 12 years and older. If an adult patient has not lost at least 5% of baseline body weight or a pediatric patient has not experienced a reduction of at least 5% of baseline BMI, discontinue QSYMIA [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) ] , as it is unlikely that the patient will achieve and sustain clinically meaningful weight loss with continued treatment. Monitor the rate of weight loss in pediatric patients. If weight loss exceeds 2 lbs (0.9 kg)/week, consider dosage reduction. 2.3 Discontinuation of QSYMIA 15 mg/92 mg Discontinue QSYMIA 15 mg/92 mg gradually by taking QSYMIA 15 mg/92 mg orally once daily every other day for at least 1 week prior to stopping treatment altogether, due to the possibility of precipitating a seizure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) and Drug Abuse and Dependence (9.3) ] . 2.4 Recommended Dosage in Patients with Renal Impairment The recommended dosage in patients with mild (CrCl greater or equal to 50 and less than 80 mL/min) renal impairment is the same as the recommended dosage for patients with normal renal function [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) , Use in Specific Populations (8.6) , and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . In patients with severe [creatinine clearance (CrCl) less than 30 mL/min] or moderate (CrCl greater than or equal to 30 and less than 50 mL/min) renal impairment (CrCl calculated using the Cockcroft-Gault equation with actual body weight), the maximum recommended dosage is QSY …

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS QSYMIA extended-release capsules are available in four strengths (phentermine mg/topiramate mg): 3.75 mg/23 mg - purple cap imprinted with VIVUS and purple body imprinted with 3.75/23 7.5 mg/46 mg - purple cap imprinted with VIVUS and yellow body imprinted with 7.5/46 11.25 mg/69 mg - yellow cap imprinted with VIVUS and yellow body imprinted with 11.25/69 15 mg/92 mg - yellow cap imprinted with VIVUS and white body imprinted with 15/92 Extended-release capsules: (phentermine mg/topiramate mg) 3.75 mg/23 mg ( 3 ) 7.5 mg/46 mg ( 3 ) 11.25 mg/69 mg ( 3 ) 15 mg/92 mg ( 3 )

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS QSYMIA is contraindicated in patients: Who are pregnant [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] With glaucoma [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] With hyperthyroidism Taking or within 14 days of stopping a monoamine oxidase inhibitors [see Drug Interactions (7) ] With known hypersensitivity to phentermine, topiramate or any of the excipients in QSYMIA, or idiosyncrasy to the sympathomimetic amines. Anaphylaxis and angioedema have occurred with topiramate [see Warnings and Precautions (5.15) ] Pregnancy ( 4 ) Glaucoma ( 4 ) Hyperthyroidism ( 4 ) Taking or within 14 days of stopping monoamine oxidase inhibitors ( 4 ) Known hypersensitivity to any component of QSYMIA or idiosyncrasy to sympathomimetic amines ( 4 )

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Embryo-Fetal Toxicity : Can cause fetal harm. In patients who can become pregnant, a negative pregnancy test is recommended before initiating QSYMIA and monthly during therapy; advise use of effective contraception. QSYMIA is available through a limited program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) ( 5.1 ). Suicidal Behavior and Ideation : Monitor for depression or suicidal thoughts. Discontinue QSYMIA if symptoms develop ( 5.2 ). Risk of Ophthalmologic Adverse Reactions : Acute myopia and secondary angle closure glaucoma have been reported. Immediately discontinue QSYMIA if symptoms develop. Consider QSYMIA discontinuation if visual field defects occur ( 5.3 ). Mood and Sleep Disorders : Consider dosage reduction or discontinuation for clinically significant or persistent mood or sleep disorder symptoms ( 5.4 ). Cognitive Impairment : May cause disturbances in attention or memory, or speech/language problems. Caution patients about operating automobiles or hazardous machinery when starting treatment ( 5.5 ). Slowing of Linear Growth : Consider dosage reduction or discontinuation if pediatric patients are not growing or gaining height as expected ( 5.6 ). Metabolic Acidosis : Measure electrolytes before and during treatment. If persistent metabolic acidosis develops, reduce dosage or discontinue QSYMIA ( 5.7 ). Decrease in Renal Function : Measure creatinine before and during treatment. For persistent creatinine elevations, reduce dosage or discontinue QSYMIA ( 5.8 ). Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS)/ Multiorgan Hypersensitivity, serious skin reactions (SJS or TEN), anaphylaxis, and angioedema : Discontinue QSYMIA if an alternative etiology cannot be established ( 5.13 , 5.14 , 5.15 ). 5.1 Embryo-Fetal Toxicity QSYMIA can cause fetal harm. Data from pregnancy registries and epidemiologic studies indicate that a fetus exposed to topiramate in the first trimester of pregnancy has an increased risk of major congenital malformations, including but not limited to cleft lip and/or cleft palate (oral clefts), and of being small for gestational age (SGA). When multiple species of pregnant animals received topiramate at clinically relevant doses, structural malformations, including craniofacial defects, and reduced fetal weights occurred in offspring. A negative pregnancy test is recommended before initiating QSYMIA treatment in patients who can become pregnant and monthly during QSYMIA therapy. Advise patients who can become pregnant of the potential risk to a fetus and to use effective contraception during QSYMIA therapy [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1 , 8.3) ] . QSYMIA Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) Because of the teratogenic risk associated with QSYMIA therapy, QSYMIA is available through a limited program under the REMS. Under the QSYMIA REMS, only certified pharmacies may distribute QSYMIA. Further information is available at www.QSYMIAREMS.com or by telephone at 1-888-998-4887. 5.2 Suicidal Behavior and Ideation Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), including topiramate, increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in patients taking these drugs for any indication. Pooled analyses of 199 placebo-controlled clinical studies (monotherapy and adjunctive therapy, median treatment duration 12 weeks) of 11 different AEDs across several indications showed that patients randomized to one of the AEDs had approximately twice the risk (adjusted Relative Risk 1.8, 95% CI 1.2, 2.7) of suicidal thinking or behavior compared to patients randomized to placebo. The estimated incidence rate of suicidal behavior or ideation among 27,863 AED-treated patients was 0.43%, compared to 0.24% among 16,029 placebo-treated patients, representing an increase of approximately one case of suicidal thinking or behavior for every 530 patients treated. There were four suicides in AED-treated patients in the trials and none in placebo-treated patients, but the number is too …

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Embryo-Fetal Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1 , 8.6) ] Suicidal Behavior and Ideation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Risk of Ophthalmologic Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Mood and Sleep Disorders [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Cognitive Impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Slowing of Linear Growth [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Metabolic Acidosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Decrease in Renal Function [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] Risk of Seizures with Abrupt Withdrawal of QSYMIA [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] Kidney Stones [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] Oligohydrosis and Hyperthermia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] Hypokalemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12) ] Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS)/Multiorgan Hypersensitivity Reactions [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.13) ] Serious Skin Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14) ] Anaphylaxis and Angioedema [see Warnings and Precautions (5.15) ] Allergic Reactions Due to Inactive Ingredient FD&C Yellow No. 5 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.16) ] Most common adverse reactions in: Adults (incidence ≥ 5% and at least 1.5 times placebo) are: paraesthesia, dizziness, dysgeusia, insomnia, constipation, and dry mouth ( 6.1 ). Pediatric patients aged 12 years and older (incidence ≥4% and greater than placebo) are: depression, dizziness, arthralgia, pyrexia, influenza, and ligament sprain ( 6.1 ). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact VIVUS LLC, at 1-888-998-4887 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical studies of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The data described herein reflect exposure to QSYMIA in two 1-year, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter clinical trials and two supportive trials in 2,318 adult patients with overweight or obesity [936 (40%) patients with hypertension, 309 (13%) patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, 808 (35%) patients with BMI greater than 40 kg/m 2 ] exposed for a mean duration of 298 days. Data in this section also describe adverse reactions from a 1-year, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter clinical trial that evaluated 223 pediatric patients (12 to 17 years old) with obesity [see Clinical Studies (14) ] . Adults Adverse reactions occurring at greater than or equal to 5% and at least 1.5 times placebo in adults include paraesthesia, dizziness, dysgeusia, insomnia, constipation, and dry mouth. Adverse reactions reported in greater than or equal to 2% of QSYMIA-treated adults and more frequently than in the placebo group are shown in Table 1. Table 1. Adverse Reactions Reported in ≥2% of QSYMIA-Treated Adults with Overweight or Obesity and More Frequently than Placebo in Overall Study Population of 1 Year Duration Adverse Reaction Placebo (N = 1561) % QSYMIA 3.75 mg/23 mg (N = 240) % QSYMIA 7.5 mg/46 mg (N = 498) % QSYMIA 15 mg/92 mg (N = 1,580) % Paraesthesia 2 4 14 20 Dry Mouth 3 7 14 19 Constipation 6 8 15 16 Upper Respiratory Tract Infection 13 16 12 14 Headache 9 10 7 11 Dysgeusia 1 1 7 9 Insomnia 5 5 6 9 Nasopharyngitis 8 13 11 9 Dizziness 3 3 7 9 Sinusitis 6 8 7 8 Nausea 4 6 4 7 Back Pain 5 5 6 7 Fatigue 4 5 4 6 Diarrhea 5 5 6 6 Vision Blurred 4 6 4 5 Bronchitis 4 7 4 5 Urinary Tract Infection 4 3 5 5 Cough 4 3 4 5 Influenza 4 8 5 4 Depression 2 3 3 4 Anxiety 2 3 2 4 Hypoesthesia 1 1 4 4 Irritability 1 2 3 4 Alopecia 1 2 3 4 Disturbance in Attention 1 0 2 4 Pain in Extremity 3 2 3 3 Muscle Spasms 2 3 3 3 Dyspepsia 2 2 2 3 Gastroesophageal Reflux Disea …

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Table 5 displays clinically significant drug interactions with QSYMIA. Table 5. Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with QSYMIA Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors Clinical Impact Concomitant use of phentermine with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) increases the risk of hypertensive crisis. Intervention Concomitant use of QSYMIA is contraindicated during MAOI treatment and within 14 days of stopping an MAOI. Oral Contraceptives Clinical Impact Co-administration of multiple-dose QSYMIA 15 mg/92 mg once daily with a single dose of oral contraceptive containing 35 μg ethinyl estradiol (estrogen component) and 1 mg norethindrone (progestin component), in obese otherwise healthy volunteers, decreased the exposure of ethinyl estradiol by 16% and increased the exposure of norethindrone by 22% [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Although this interaction is not anticipated to increase the risk of pregnancy, irregular bleeding (spotting) may occur more frequently due to both the increased exposure to the progestin and lower exposure to the estrogen, which tends to stabilize the endometrium. Intervention Inform patients not to discontinue their combination oral contraceptive if spotting occurs, but to notify their health care provider if the spotting is troubling to them. CNS Depressants Including Alcohol Clinical Impact The concomitant use of alcohol or CNS depressant drugs (e.g., barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and sleep medications) with phentermine or topiramate may potentiate CNS depression such as dizziness or cognitive adverse reactions, or other centrally mediated effects of these agents. Intervention Advise patients not to drive or operate machinery until they have gained sufficient experience on QSYMIA to gauge whether it adversely affects their mental performance, motor performance, and/or vision. Caution patients against excessive alcohol intake when taking QSYMIA. Consider QSYMIA dosage reduction or discontinuation if cognitive dysfunction persists [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ]. Non-Potassium Sparing Diuretics Clinical Impact Concurrent use of QSYMIA with non-potassium sparing diuretics may potentiate the potassium-wasting action of these diuretics. Concomitant administration of hydrochlorothiazide alone with topiramate alone has been shown to increase the C max and AUC of topiramate by 27% and 29%, respectively. Intervention When QSYMIA is used concomitantly with non-potassium-sparing diuretics, measure potassium before and during QSYMIA treatment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Antiepileptic Drugs Clinical Impact Concomitant administration of phenytoin or carbamazepine with topiramate in patients with epilepsy, decreased plasma concentrations of topiramate by 48% and 40%, respectively, when compared to topiramate given alone [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Concomitant administration of valproic acid and topiramate has been associated with hyperammonemia with and without encephalopathy. Concomitant administration of topiramate with valproic acid in patients has also been associated with hypothermia (with and without hyperammonemia). Intervention Consider measuring blood ammonia in patients in whom the onset of hypothermia or encephalopathy has been reported [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors Clinical Impact Concomitant use of topiramate with any other carbonic anhydrase inhibitor may increase the severity of metabolic acidosis and may also increase the risk of kidney stone formation. Intervention Avoid the use of QSYMIA with other drugs that inhibit carbonic anhydrase. If concomitant use of QSYMIA with another carbonic anhydrase inhibitor is unavoidable, monitor patient for the appearance or worsening of metabolic acidosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7 , 5.10) ] . Pioglitazone Clinical Impact A decrease in the exposure of pioglitazone and its active metabolites were noted with the concurrent use of pioglitaz …

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Lactation : Breastfeeding not recommended ( 8.2 ). 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary QSYMIA is contraindicated in pregnant patients. The use of QSYMIA can cause fetal harm, and weight loss offers no clear clinical benefit to a pregnant patient (see Clinical Considerations ) . Available data from pregnancy registries and epidemiologic studies indicate an increased risk of major congenital malformations, including but not limited to cleft lip and/or cleft palate (oral clefts), and of being SGA in infants exposed in utero to topiramate (see Data ) . When phentermine and topiramate were co-administered to rats at doses of 3.75 and 25 mg/kg, respectively [approximately 2 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) based on area under the curve (AUC)], or at the same dose to rabbits (approximately 0.1 times and 1 time, respectively, the clinical exposures at the MRHD based on AUC), there were no drug-related malformations. However, structural malformations, including craniofacial defects and reduced fetal weights occurred in offspring of multiple species of pregnant animals administered topiramate at clinically relevant doses (see Data ) . Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Clinical Considerations Disease Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk Weight loss during pregnancy may result in fetal harm. Appropriate weight gain based on pre-pregnancy weight is currently recommended for all pregnant patients, including those who are already overweight or obese, due to the obligatory weight gain that occurs in maternal tissues during pregnancy. Maternal obesity increases the risk for congenital malformations, including neural tube defects, cardiac malformations, oral clefts, and limb reduction defects. Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions QSYMIA can cause metabolic acidosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] . The effect of topiramate-induced metabolic acidosis has not been studied in pregnancy; however, metabolic acidosis in pregnancy (due to other causes) can cause decreased fetal growth, decreased fetal oxygenation, and fetal death, and may affect the fetus' ability to tolerate labor. Data Human Data Data evaluating the risk of major congenital malformations, oral clefts, and being SGA with topiramate exposure during pregnancy is available from the North American Antiepileptic Drug (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry and from several larger retrospective epidemiologic studies. Major Congenital Malformations The NAAED Pregnancy Registry indicates an increased risk of major congenital malformations, including but not limited to oral clefts in infants exposed to topiramate during the first trimester of pregnancy. Other than oral clefts, no specific pattern of major congenital malformations or grouping of major congenital malformation types were observed. In the NAAED pregnancy registry, when topiramate-exposed infants with only oral clefts were excluded, the prevalence of major congenital malformations (4.1%) was higher than that in infants exposed to a reference antiepileptic drug (AED) (1.8%) or in infants with mothers without epilepsy and without exposure to AEDs (1.1%). Oral Clefts In the NAAED Pregnancy Registry, the prevalence of oral clefts among topiramate-exposed infants (1.4%) was higher than the prevalence in infants exposed to a reference AED (0.3%) or the prevalence in infants with mothers without epilepsy and without exposure to AEDs (0.11%). It was also higher than the background prevalence in United States (0.17%) as estimated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The relative risk of oral clefts in topiramate-exposed pregnancies in the NAAED Pregnancy Registry was 12.5 (95% Confidence Interval [CI] 5.9-26.37) as compared to the risk in a background population of untreated women. The UK Epilepsy and Pregnancy Register reported a prevalence of oral clefts among infants exposed to topiramate monotherapy (3.2%) that was 16 times higher than the background rate in the …

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action Phentermine is a sympathomimetic amine with pharmacologic activity similar to the prototype drugs of this class used in obesity, amphetamine (d- and d/l-amphetamine). Drugs of this class used in obesity are commonly known as "anorectics" or "anorexigenics." The effect of phentermine on weight reduction and long-term maintenance of body weight is likely mediated by release of catecholamines in the hypothalamus, resulting in reduced appetite and decreased food consumption, but other metabolic effects may also be involved. The exact mechanism of action is not known. The precise mechanism of action of topiramate on weight reduction and long-term maintenance of body weight is not known. Topiramate's effect on weight reduction and long-term maintenance of body weight may be due to its effects on both appetite suppression and satiety enhancement, induced by a combination of pharmacologic effects including augmenting the activity of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyrate, modulation of voltage-gated ion channels, inhibition of AMPA/kainite excitatory glutamate receptors, or inhibition of carbonic anhydrase.

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

11 DESCRIPTION QSYMIA extended-release capsules are comprised of immediate-release phentermine hydrochloride (expressed as the weight of the free base) and extended-release topiramate. QSYMIA contains phentermine hydrochloride, a sympathomimetic amine anorectic, and topiramate, a sulfamate-substituted monosaccharide. Phentermine Hydrochloride The chemical name of phentermine hydrochloride is α,α-dimethylphenethylamine hydrochloride. The molecular formula is C 10 H 15 N ∙ HCl and its molecular weight is 185.7 (hydrochloride salt) or 149.2 (free base). Phentermine hydrochloride is a white, odorless, hygroscopic, crystalline powder that is soluble in water, methanol, and ethanol. Its structural formula is: Chemical Structure Topiramate Topiramate is 2,3:4,5-di-O-isopropylidene-β-D-fructopyranose sulfamate. The molecular formula is C 12 H 21 NO 8 S and its molecular weight is 339.4. Topiramate is a white to off-white crystalline powder with a bitter taste. It is freely soluble in methanol and acetone, sparingly soluble in pH 9 to pH 12 aqueous solutions and slightly soluble in pH 1 to pH 8 aqueous solutions. Its structural formula is: Chemical Structure QSYMIA QSYMIA (phentermine and topiramate extended-release capsules) is for oral administration and available in four dosage strengths: 3.75 mg/23 mg (phentermine 3.75 mg and topiramate 23 mg) (equivalent to 4.67 mg of Phentermine Hydrochloride USP). 7.5 mg/46 mg (phentermine 7.5 mg and topiramate 46 mg) (equivalent to 9.33 mg of Phentermine Hydrochloride USP). 11.25 mg/69 mg (phentermine 11.25 mg and topiramate 69 mg) (equivalent to 14.0 mg of Phentermine Hydrochloride USP). 15 mg/92 mg (phentermine 15 mg and topiramate 92 mg) (equivalent to 18.66 mg of Phentermine Hydrochloride USP). Each capsule contains the following inactive ingredients: FD&C Blue #1, FD&C Red #3, FD&C Yellow #5 and #6, ethylcellulose, gelatin, methylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, starch, sucrose, talc, titanium dioxide, and pharmaceutical black and white inks.

10 OVERDOSAGE In the event of a significant overdose with QSYMIA, if the ingestion is recent, the stomach should be emptied immediately by gastric lavage or by induction of emesis. Appropriate supportive treatment should be provided according to the patient's clinical signs and symptoms. In the event of an overdose of QSYMIA, consider contacting the Poison Help line (1-800-222-1222) or a medical toxicologist for additional overdosage management recommendations. Acute overdose of phentermine may be associated with restlessness, tremor, hyperreflexia, rapid respiration, confusion, aggressiveness, hallucinations, and panic states. Fatigue and depression usually follow the central stimulation. Cardiovascular effects include arrhythmia, hypertension or hypotension, and circulatory collapse. Gastrointestinal symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Fatal poisoning usually terminates in convulsions and coma. Manifestations of chronic intoxication with anorectic drugs include severe dermatoses, marked insomnia, irritability, hyperactivity, and personality changes. A severe manifestation of chronic intoxication is psychosis, often clinically indistinguishable from schizophrenia. Management of acute phentermine intoxication is largely symptomatic and includes lavage and sedation with a barbiturate. Acidification of the urine increases phentermine excretion. Intravenous phentolamine has been suggested for possible acute, severe hypertension, if this complicates phentermine overdosage. Topiramate overdose has resulted in severe metabolic acidosis. Other signs and symptoms include convulsions, drowsiness, speech disturbance, blurred vision, diplopia, impaired mentation, lethargy, abnormal coordination, stupor, hypotension, abdominal pain, agitation, dizziness, and depression. The clinical consequences were not severe in most cases, but deaths have been reported after overdoses involving topiramate. A patient who ingested a dose between 96 and 110 gm topiramate was admitted to hospital with coma lasting 20 to 24 hours followed by full recovery after 3 to 4 days. Hemodialysis is an effective means of removing topiramate from the body.

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING QSYMIA (phentermine and topiramate extended-release capsules) are available as follows (see Table 15 ): Table 15. QSYMIA Presentations Strength (phentermine mg/topiramate mg) Description How Supplied NDC 3.75 mg/23 mg extended-release capsules Purple cap imprinted with VIVUS, Purple body imprinted with 3.75/23 Unit of Use Bottle (14 capsules) 62541-201-14 Pharmacy Bottle (30 capsules) 62541-201-30 7.5 mg/46 mg extended-release capsules Purple cap imprinted with VIVUS, Yellow body imprinted with 7.5/46 Unit of Use Bottle (30 capsules) 62541-202-30 11.25 mg/69 mg extended-release capsules Yellow cap imprinted with VIVUS, Yellow body imprinted with 11.25/69 Pharmacy Bottle (30 capsules) 62541-203-30 15 mg/92 mg extended-release capsules Yellow cap imprinted with VIVUS, White body imprinted with 15/92 Unit of Use Bottle (30 capsules) 62541-204-30 3.75 mg/23 mg and 7.5 mg/46 mg extended-release capsules Purple cap imprinted with VIVUS, Purple body imprinted with 3.75/23 and Purple cap imprinted with VIVUS, Yellow body imprinted with 7.5/46 Starter Pack - Blister Configuration (28 Capsules) 62541-210-28 11.25 mg/69 mg and 15 mg/92 mg extended-release capsules Yellow cap imprinted with VIVUS, Yellow body imprinted with 11.25/69 Dose Escalation Pack – Blister Configuration (28 Capsules) 62541-220-28 Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Keep container tightly closed and protect from moisture.

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
96,821
FAERS reports mentioning this drug
as of 2026-09-25T03:42:24+00:00
A report count is not a risk measure. FAERS accepts voluntary and mandatory reports without establishing causation, and reporting is influenced by how widely a drug is used, how long it has been marketed, and media attention. FDA states that reports “do not prove that the drug caused the event”. Compare rates, not totals.

Attributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: TOPIRAMATE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.

Packaging and NDCs

Source: NDC Directory
Every National Drug Code package associated with this medication. The NDC is the identifier used for dispensing, billing and pharmacovigilance in the United States.
Package NDC Product NDC Labeler Description Marketing start
62541-201-14 62541-201 Vivus LLC 14 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, UNIT-DOSE (62541-201-14) September 17, 2012
62541-201-30 62541-201 Vivus LLC 30 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, UNIT-DOSE (62541-201-30) September 17, 2012
62541-202-30 62541-202 Vivus LLC 30 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, UNIT-DOSE (62541-202-30) September 17, 2012
62541-203-30 62541-203 Vivus LLC 30 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (62541-203-30) September 17, 2012
62541-204-30 62541-204 Vivus LLC 30 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, UNIT-DOSE (62541-204-30) September 17, 2012
62541-201 62541-201 Vivus LLC — September 17, 2012
62541-202 62541-202 Vivus LLC — September 17, 2012
62541-203 62541-203 Vivus LLC — September 17, 2012
62541-204 62541-204 Vivus LLC — September 17, 2012

Sources for this page

Every dataset that contributed a fact to this page.
Dataset Agency Used for
NDC Directory FDA Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages
Drugs@FDA FDA Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status
Orange Book FDA Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts

Generated September 25, 2026 · 12 sections on this page.