Phendimetrazine belongs to a class of drugs known as sympathomimetic appetite suppressants. Phendimetrazine is similar to an amphetamine. Physicians often prescribe phendimetrazine for the short-term treatment of obesity. Phendimetrazine works by reducing the appetite so a person eats less. However, the effects often decrease over time, which is why it is only recommended short-term, notes MayoClinic.com.
Contraindications
People suffering from heart disease, high blood pressure, glaucoma and arteriosclerosis should not use phendimetrazine. Drugs.com warns that people currently taking or who have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, or MAOI, within the last 14 days should avoid taking phendimetrazine, as should those with a history of drug and alcohol abuse. Patients who have anxiety disorders, epilepsy, diabetes or thyroid problems should discuss these conditions with their physician before taking this medication.
Usage
Phendimetrazine comes as an extended release tablet taken once a day or as a tablet taken two to three times a day before meals, notes Drugs.com. Patients should take the medication with a full glass of water on an empty stomach. Patients taking phendimetrazine within four to six hours of bedtime may experience insomnia.
Side Effects
Like most medications, phendimetrazine may produce unwanted effects. MayoClinic.com warns that common side effects include constipation, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, irritability, nausea, stomach cramps, trembling or shaking hands and trouble sleeping. Patients should alert their physicians if any of these symptoms occur.
Overdose
People should take only the prescribed dosage of phendimetrazine. It is possible to overdose on the medication. Symptoms of an overdose may include abdominal cramps, confusion, convulsions, dizziness, fast breathing, panic attacks, fever, high or low blood pressure, hostility, irregular heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, restlessness, trembling and overactive reflexes.
Considerations
Phendimetrazine has a similar makeup to an amphetamine and is a habit forming drug. It is possible to become physically or psychologically dependent upon this medication, says Drugs.com. Phendimetrazine is not intended for long-term use and it is possible to experience withdrawal effects when stopping this medication after long-term use.
