Biotech Values

[biomaven0]

CNS side effects of VVUS drug:

I think it would be a miracle if there were no cognitive side effects given the combination includes Topamax (AKA as "Dopamax"). I can personally attest to these as I tried Topamax for migraines - I couldn't think of common words when I was on the drug. But it's important to note that these side effects disappear once you stop Topamax, and the incidence appears to be fairly low - certainly under 5%. Further, the Qnexa doses of Topamax are much lower than those typically used in epilepsy and migraine. So at the end of the day I don't see this as a big issue - some people will not tolerate the drug and will stop. We're not talking about issues like seizures that will cause the FDA great concern. (There are some very-low-incidence side effects of Topamax that are of more concern such as kidney stones and ocular issues).

Somehow nobody seems to be talking about the side effect profile of the OREX drug. Wellbutrin has a suicide black box, and the other constituent (naltrexone) is well known for making people feel out of sorts, perhaps because it blocks endorphins. At the end of the day I believe the Qnexa tolerability and label will be more benign than that of OREX's drug.

Peter