Phentermine hydrochloride is a medication used as a weight loss tool to suppress an appetite to reduce obesity when combined with a healthy diet and exercise. The medication works on the central nervous system to suppress the appetite. Individuals use the medication short-term to help achieve weight loss.
Availability
Phentermine is available with a prescription from a physician. The medication comes in regular and extended-release capsules. Several different manufacturers produce phentermine under various brand names and dosage amounts.
How to Take Phentermine
A physician will determine the dosage amount and schedule of the medication, as these factors vary depending on the needs of the individual. Common prescription instructions include taking a dose in the morning or within two hours after eating breakfast; while other individuals may take a dose three times each day, 30 minutes before a meal, according to Drugs.com. Individuals take the medication for a short period, usually about three to six weeks.
Side Effects
Common side effects of phentermine include a dry mouth, constipation, vomiting, diarrhea or an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Side effects usually decrease with continued use, but if the side effects do not resolve or if they become bothersome, an individual needs to report them to a physician. Users experiencing side effects such as sleeplessness, nervousness, an increase in blood pressure and heart rate, shortness of breath, tremors, swelling in the arms and legs or heart palpitations need to notify a physician immediately, according to MedlinePlus.
Contraindications
Taking phentermine along with other medications for weight loss, such as dexfenfluramine or fenfluramine, may cause pulmonary hypertension, which is a fatal lung disorder, according to Drugs.com. Avoid taking phentermine with a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor---an antidepressant medication---because the combination may cause possible life-threatening side effects. To take phentermine, an individual needs to wait at least 14 days after taking an MAO inhibitor. Individuals with medical conditions such as glaucoma, heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure or coronary artery disease should not take phentermine. Children under the age of 16 should not take phentermine, according to RxList.com.
Warnings
Combining phentermine with drinking alcohol may intensify the side effects, such as dizziness and drowsiness. Subjects taking phentermine need to use caution when driving or operating heavy machinery because of the possibility of these side effects. Phentermine may become habit-forming. Individuals who have a history of addiction should not take the medication, according to Drugs.com.
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