Qsymia vs. Contrave
Qsymia and Contrave are both approved for chronic weight management but utilize different mechanisms. Qsymia combines phentermine and topiramate, targeting appetite and reward pathways, while Contrave pairs naltrexone and bupropion for similar effects. Qsymia generally achieves greater weight loss but carries stimulant-related risks like insomnia and mood changes. Contrave’s side effects include mood shifts and potential sleep disturbances. Both are affordable, costing around $300/month. Neither drug faces shortages.
Phentermine suppresses appetite by stimulating the release of norepinephrine in the brain; topiramate enhances feelings of fullness and alters taste perceptions, reducing food intake.
Common Side Effects
Dry mouth, insomnia, constipation, dizziness, and tingling in hands or feet.
Serious Potential Side Effects
Increased heart rate, mood changes, suicidal thoughts, and memory/concentration difficulties, dependency and abuse of medication
Bupropion enhances dopamine and norepinephrine activity, reducing appetite and cravings; Naltrexone modulates the brain’s reward system, reducing cravings and emotional eating behaviors by blocking opioid receptors.
Common Side Effects
Nausea, constipation, headache, dizziness, dry mouth, and insomnia.
Serious Potential Side Effects
Increased blood pressure, seizures (rare), suicidal thoughts, and liver damage.