Phentermine is a diet pill available in the U.S. by prescription only, marketed under the trade name Adipex-P by Teva Pharmaceuticals. Phentermine can help you lose weight when dieting and physical activity alone aren't yielding sufficient results. If you are considering speaking to your physician about taking phentermine as a diet pill, there are some key points to be aware of before starting the medication.
Features
Phentermine hydrochloride is available in capsule or tablet forms, to be taken orally at the start of the day. It is a type of medication termed a sympathomimetic amine, according to the National Library of Medicine. A psychostimulant medication, phentermine possesses properties similar to those of amphetamine stimulants, and hence is generally prescribed only to treat cases of obesity that pose health risks or are unresponsive to diet and exercise.
Effects
While some types of diet pills work by forcing your body to excrete fat that you consume, phentermine functions on the brain and central nervous system, suppressing appetite and reducing the craving for food. The idea behind using phentermine as a diet pill is to allow you to eat smaller portions of healthier foods, as well as maintain a regular regimen of exercise, to lose weight.
Considerations
Although phentermine is often prescribed when your doctor thinks a healthy diet and exercise aren't enough for your weight loss needs, this does not mean that you should stop exercising and eating healthy while taking the medication. Phentermine works best in combination with a balanced diet composed of plenty of whole grains for complex carbohydrates, lean sources of protein such as baked fish, beans, and rice, and plenty of nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables.
Time Frame
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, phentermine is indicated for use only for periods of 12 weeks or less. If you are obese, this period of taking phentermine may be the dietary "jump-start" your body needs to get back to the basics of a healthy diet and regular exercise. Taken for periods longer than 12 weeks, phentermine -- like many other stimulant medications -- can be habit-forming, and you should discuss this potential risk carefully with your prescribing physician before taking it.
Side Effects
Stimulant medications tend to produce certain key side effects, and phentermine is no exception. Phentermine may produce common side effects including dry mouth, constipation, an unpleasant taste in your mouth, and diarrhea. If these symptoms become troubling while you are taking the medication, call your doctor. Contact your prescribing physician immediately if you experience serious side effects including insomnia, irregular heartbeat or heart palpitations, persistent insomnia, chest pain, dizziness or shortness of breath.
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