What should I avoid while taking Qsymia?

While you're taking the prescription weight-loss medication Qsymia (phentermine and topiramate), you should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery, because the drug may affect your mental and/or physical ability. You should also avoid drinking alcohol, because it can intensify Qsymia's side effects.

You should not take Qsymia within two weeks of taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), because the combination may cause serious or life-threatening side effects. Women should avoid pregnancy while on Qsymia, because the drug may cause serious birth defects in a developing fetus. They should also avoid breastfeeding, because Qsymia may pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant.

You should avoid becoming dehydrated while taking Qsymia. This drug can cause kidney stones, particularly if you get dehydrated.