Tenuate, also known as diethylpropion, is a short-term sympathomimetic appetite suppressant given to help people lose weight in the first weeks of a weight loss program. Diethylpropion works by helping to reduce the appetite. It is approved for short-term use only, however, as its effects decrease over the first few weeks, according to MayoClinic.com.
Contraindications
Patients should ensure that physicians have a thorough medical history before taking this medication including prior conditions and current medications including herbal supplements, over-the-counter medications and vitamins. Patients with certain preexisting conditions such as advanced arteriosclerosis, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma or severe hypertension should avoid diethylpropion as this medication has been shown to cause pulmonary hypertension. Patients should not take diethylpropion if they have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, or MAOI, within 14 days as this may cause a hypertensive crisis. Drugs.com warns that patients with a history of drug abuse should not take this medication as this medication is similar to an amphetamine and can be habit-forming.
Warning
Diethylpropion can become habit-forming when taken long-term and patients may experience withdrawal symptoms during cessation of this medication. Drugs.com warns that several cases of toxic psychosis, a condition in which patients have delusions, hallucinations, incoherent speech and agitated behaviors due to the ingestion of a toxin, after prolonged use of this medication. Taking diethylpropion late in the day may cause insomnia.
Usage
Diethylpropion is only intended for people with a body mass index of 30 kg/m2 or higher and who have not been able to successfully lose weight with diet and exercise alone. Dosages vary, but physicians commonly prescribe a dosage of 25 mg three times a day, one hour before meals, according to MayoClinic.com. Patients should never crush, break or chew these tablets before swallowing and should take the last dose of medication at least four hours before bedtime so as not to interrupt sleep.
Side Effects
The most common side effect of diethylpropion is increased blood pressure. Patients may experience other minor side effects such as dizziness, constipation, headache, irritability, nausea, vomiting, trembling, shaking, insomnia and stomach cramps, according to MedlinePlus. In rare cases, side effects can include chest pain, decreased ability to exercise, fainting, swelling of the lower legs and feet and shortness of breath.
Considerations
Diethylpropion is a schedule IV controlled substance because it has chemical properties similar to that of amphetamines, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency. Patients should take this medication only as prescribed even if they feel the drug is no longer working as effectively as there is the potential for overdose. Drugs.com explains that signs of overdose include tremor, rapid breathing, confusion, hallucinations, panic attacks and restlessness. Patients experiencing any of these conditions should alert their physician immediately.
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