Phentermine is a prescription drug from the phenethylamine and amphetamine family. It is prescribed as a weight loss aid for significantly overweight people who have had trouble losing weight using other methods. While it can be helpful in the short term, phentermine and drugs like it are not suitable long-term solutions for weight loss due to the risk of side effects. Understanding the benefits and risks of phentermine for weight loss allows patients and their doctors to choose the most effective treatment while reducing the likelihood of adverse effects.
Features
Phentermine is a drug with appetite suppressant properties. It primarily affects norepinephrine, a brain chemical associated with adrenaline release and the fight-or-flight response.
Phentermine was one of the ingredients in the diet drug Fen-Phen, which was pulled from the market after being linked with fatal heart valve problems in the late 1990s. It is now available by itself as a weight loss aid, and has not been shown to cause the serious health problems associated with Fen-Phen.
Effects
Phentermine causes weight loss by suppressing appetite and speeding metabolism. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is most effective when used for 12 weeks or less in conjunction with other weight loss activities, such as a healthy diet and exercise. In this setting, phentermine may be a good option for jump-starting weight loss in healthy individuals.
While it can be effective initially, quitting phentermine often results in weight gain. Because it's only approved for short-term use, doctors may be unlikely to prescribe it on a continuous basis, making it a poor choice for sustained weight management.
Side Effects and Risks
Phentermine can cause side effects in some people. Commonly reported side effects include insomnia, dry mouth, dizziness, nervousness and upset stomach. Like other stimulants, phentermine may raise blood pressure and heart rate, which could be dangerous in people with certain health conditions.
Phentermine is a Schedule IV controlled drug due to its risk for abuse and addiction. Drug Information Online states quitting phentermine after long-term use may result in depression and severe fatigue, causing some users to resume using the drug or become psychologically dependent.
Safety Precautions
The decision to use phentermine for weight loss can best be made by a doctor and patient after discussing the benefits and risks. To reduce the likelihood of side effects, follow dosing directions carefully and avoid increasing the dose without asking a doctor. Don't take phentermine if you have a history of heart disease, substance abuse or currently take other weight loss medications, and inform your doctor if you are pregnant before starting phentermine.
Warning
Because of its amphetamine-like effects, phentermine may increase the risk for serious cardiovascular problems in rare instances. If you experience severe headache, chest pains or other signs of a heart attack or stroke while taking phentermine, stop use and seek help immediately.
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