Obesity--a condition in which the body has too much excess fat--is a serious health concern that can lead to many complications. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 34 percent of adults, 18 percent of adolescents and 30 percent of children are obese in the United Sates. Phentermine is a commonly prescribed medication to aid obese individuals in the weight loss process.
Indications
Phentermine is a stimulant and appetite suppressant indicated for the treatment of obesity. It is to be used along with diet and exercise in obese individuals with certain risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. Phentermine is intended for short-term therapy generally no longer than 12 weeks, according to the MayoClinic.com.
Side Effects
Side effects can occur in individuals taking phentermine. Less serious and more common side effects include dry mouth and an unpleasant taste, diarrhea and constipation and vomiting. Individuals experiencing more serious side effects, such as increased blood pressure, heart palpitations, shortness of breath and chest pain should call a doctor immediately. Seek medical attention or call the Poison Help Line if an overdose of phentermine occurs, as it is potentially fatal, according to Drugs.com.
Dosage and Administration
Phentermine is available in tablet form or as an extended-release capsule. According to PubMed Health, phentermine is taken in the morning as a single dose or three times per day approximately 30 minutes after meals. A single 30mg capsule is designed to decrease appetite for 12 to 14 hours. Phentermine is not recommended after 6 p.m. because of the possibility of sleep disturbances. It is also not recommended for children under the age of 12.
Warning
Phentermine can be habit-forming and has the potential to be abused. Phentermine should only be taken by the individual it is prescribed for and should never be shared with someone else. Individuals should speak with a doctor if they are taking medications for blood pressure, depression and anxiety, or diabetes, because these drugs may interact with phentermine. Using phentermine along with the diet medications fenfluramine or dexfenfluramine can cause pulmonary hypertension, a rare and fatal lung disorder, according to Drugs.com.
Considerations
As mentioned, phentermine has the potential for abuse and is prescribed to be taken for no more than 12 weeks. Healthy weight loss for obese individuals, however, is an ongoing process of lifestyle changes consisting of regular physical activity and healthy eating. The CDC says that weight loss is more likely to be maintained if it occurs gradually at a rate of 1 to 2 lbs. per week. Relying solely on medications for weight loss may cause individuals to regain the weight once they stop taking the medication. Therefore, phentermine should only be used as one tool in an overall lifestyle change for weight loss.
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