FDA blocks approval of weight loss drug-Qnexa

Qnexa, the blockbuster weight loss medication, did not get FDA approval today. Qnexa is a combination of phentermine (adipex) and topiramate (topamax). Phentermine has been widely used to treat obesity and does work, but it also has a number of unpleasant side effects. Topamax is an anticonvulsant used to treat seizures and a variety of mood disorders. People who used topamax for seizures and migraines have reported weight loss. Based on this information, the drug company, Vivus decided to combine the two products to make Qnexa. The first few studies conducted by vivus indicated that the formula works well for weight loss, but FDA had other concerns.

There is great concern that Qnexa may case dangerous side effects include changes in heart rhythm, memory loss, birth defects and suicidal thoughts. Other side effects include  nausea, headaches, dry mouth, insomnia, tingling, altered taste, constipation, diarrhea, fatigue and symptoms of a upper respiratory tract infection.

With the increasing rates of obesity globally, there is a need for weight loss medications. Even though many effective weight loss medications have been discovered, the majority have been found to have severe side effects and dangerous complications.

Qnexa is the 2^nd drug to be rejected in a week; last week, the FDA rejected lorcaserin made by Arena pharmaceuticals.

The FDA has asked Vivus to supply more data on its toxicity before it makes any more decisions on the future of Qnexa.

Drug companies are notorious when it comes to hiding negative information. With millions of obese people all around the globe, there are billions of dollars to be made-so in their opinion who cares if a few die on the way if obesity is cured!

Qnexa acts as an appetite suppressant and allows one to lose weight rapidly. Anecdotal reports indicate that Qnexa can help one lose at least 10% of body weight in 12 months.

Can I take generic statin to lower my cholesterol?

All statins currently available work in the same way. These medications inhibit a certain enzyme in the body, which prevents cholesterol build up in the body. However, the major difference between the statins is their effectiveness and cost. Stains are expensive medications and are often prescribed for many years. The most expensive statins are rosuvastatin and atrovastatin. 

Individuals who have been prescribed these expensive medications should speak to their doctor about the generic statins. At the moment, mevacor, pravachol and zocor are available in generic form and for 1/3^rd the price. Many insurance companies may require that you try a generic statin before they will pay for a brand name statin. Some insurance cover all types of statins, after you pay a deductible. Statins bring in a lot of money to the pharmaceutical industry, and usually doctors have little idea what generic brands are available.   

Remember statins have to be taken for long periods (perhaps a lifetime) and can cost a fortune. If you really want to lower your cholesterol cheaply, then eat right and walk regularly. 

There is absolutely no reason why a generic statin will not work as effectively as the expensive brands. So do not believe the hype that the more expensive statins are any better than the cheaper brand- this is just a ploy to make consumers vulnerable about their health.

My doctor prescribed Viagra for my ED. I took it for the first time tonight and now, rather than doing what it’s supposed to do, I’m looking pale and I’m getting red splotches. Is this normal? Should I take another one? What’s going on here? (Male, 66)

Viagra is generally a very safe drug and has been used by millions of individuals in the past decade. The majority of men use Viagra to enhance their sexual life. However, there is no drug that is completely free of side effects. The most common side effects of Viagra include a headache, nasal stuffiness, stomach upset and facial flushing. 

These mild side effects are well tolerated and usually disappear with time. Other very rare side effects of Viagra include changes in vision and a painful prolonged erection, known as priapism. Like all medications, Viagra can also cause an allergic reaction.

This allergic reaction may present with a skin rash (red splotches), itching, general fatigue, difficulty breathing or facial swelling. Symptoms that you describe are more likely due to an allergic reaction. In such cases, the drug must be discontinued and one must seek immediate medical assistance. It is important not to take any more Viagra or any other type of impotence pill until you have been seen by your doctor. Allergic reactions to Viagra may be attributed to the active chemical ingredient, sildenafil citrate, or other substances that have been used to make the pill.