Does topiramate help you lose weight?

You’ve tried every fad diet, every cleanse, and even considered joining a cult for the promise of shedding those extra pounds. But have you considered topiramate? If you’re unfamiliar with this drug, don’t worry – we’re here to break it down for you. And no, it’s not a new type of pasta.

What is Topiramate?

Topiramate is an anticonvulsant medication originally used to treat seizures in patients with epilepsy. However, doctors noticed something curious after prescribing it – their patients were losing weight! Soon enough, people began taking topiramate as an off-label weight loss pill.

How does it work?

Here comes the science-y stuff (brace yourself). Topiramate works by increasing levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which essentially acts as a natural sedative in our brains. Additionally, topiramate also helps reduce appetite by affecting hormones that regulate hunger.

In simpler terms: It makes your brain think “nah I’m good” when presented with a giant bowl of mac n’ cheese instead of diving headfirst into seconds… or thirds… or fourths…

So can it really help me lose weight?

As always results may vary, but clinical studies have shown that participants who took topiramate lost more weight on average than those who didn’t take the drug at all.

One 2012 study published in Obesity Reviews analyzed 12 different trials involving over 3,000 overweight and obese adults who took either topiramate alone or in combination with other medications for up to two years

After analyzing data from these trials researchers found:

  • Participants taking topamax lost nearly twice as much weight compared to those receiving placebo.

  • Individuals on higher doses saw better results than those on lower ones.

  • When combined with phentermine, another weight loss drug, topiramate increased weight loss even further.

These results look promising, but keep in mind they were achieved over a two year period with consistent medication use – this isn’t some overnight magic pill that will make the pounds disappear instantly.

Okay cool, but what are the side effects?

As Uncle Ben so eloquently said to Peter Parker: “with great power comes great responsibility”. In the case of topiramate, it’s important to understand the potential side effects before making a decision on whether or not to take it.

Common side effects associated with Topamax include:

  • Drowsiness
  • Numbness/tingling in arms and legs
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Nausea/vomiting

More severe (but relatively rare) risks include:

  • Acute closed-angle glaucoma
  • Suicidal thoughts/behavior
  • Kidney stones

So although topiramate may be effective at helping you lose those extra pounds, you’ll want to carefully weigh these risks against possible benefits before taking any step forward.

Can I still enjoy my favorite foods while taking Topamax?

Sure… in theory! Remember that donut lying around waiting for your morning snack? Well topamax might mess things up for you when It comes to food cravings which is why we recommend having healthier options on hand instead. Don’t worry though there’s lots of healthy snack ideas out there too!

Here are some foods recommended by experts as great snack alternatives:

  1. Apple slices w/ almond butter

  2. Raw veggies w/ hummus

  3. Greek yogurt topped w/ fresh berries

  4. Air-popped popcorn seasoned w/light salt & pepper

Healthy snacks can actually increase satiety and help you stop craving those sugary treats that can oftentimes sabotage our efforts towards weight-loss success.

But is Topamax really worth it?

In the grand scheme of things, finding the right weight loss plan will be unique to each individual. Topiramate might work incredibly well for one person but cause another more harm than good.

Before hopping on board the Topamax train, it’s worth speaking with your doctor or a registered dietitian about other options as well – they may recommend an appropriate combination of medications and lifestyle changes that can better help achieve your health and wellness goals.

At the end of the day , No matter what method you choose, consistency is key in shedding those extra pounds; taking any medication should always be done under careful supervision by a licensed medical professional.

And if all else fails… just remember to leave room for cheat days (in moderation).

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