The cravings and hunger that come with strict dieting can be the hardest part of losing weight. Practicing strict caloric intake control can sometimes lead to strong cravings that result in indulging and gaining the weight back. Phentermine is a drug that was released to help control cravings and hungers. The reduced hunger helped dieters avoid fatty foods and reduce meal portions without going hungry. However, some health risks are associated with the drug, so medical experts recommend using phentermine carefully and under the supervision of a doctor.
History
Quick weight loss diets have been around for decades. Phentermine was discovered in the 1990s as a weight loss diet pill that helped patients lose pounds of fat by suppressing the appetite. The diet pill was marketed under the brand name Adipex and Adipex-P. Adipex quickly boomed in the market as a way to lose weight without feeling hungry; however, it came with risk factors that began research and investigations by the FDA. Phentermine was combined with fenfluramine, and it was found to cause valve problems in the heart. The drugs that combined phentermine with fenfluramine were quickly banned by the FDA.
Function
Phentermine works by increasing the amount of norepinephrine in the body. Norepinephrine is associated with the "fight or flight" response in the body. When the body responds to fear, worry or stress, norepinephrine is released, leading to physiological changes. The body constricts arteries, raises heart rate, and gives more oxygen to muscles. It also lowers the activity of the gastrointestinal tract, which reduces hunger and cravings.
Use
Phentermine should be taken under the supervision of a physician. If a physician prescribes phentermine for weight loss, the person usually has a BMI of at least 27, which is considered obese. Phentermine reduces appetite, so a patient can lose weight more rapidly than with traditional dieting and exercise.
Considerations
Phentermine should only be taken along with other lifestyle changes. Phentermine should only be taken for approximately 3 months because the drug is used to assist quick weight loss. It is not a supplement for permanent consumption. Patients who take phentermine can control cravings and lose weight while practicing food changes. For instance, phentermine helps mediate fatty food cravings, and the patient can choose meals high in protein, fruits and vegetables.
Warning
Phentermine increases heart rate, and some patients report palpitations and breathlessness. Patients who have pre-existing cardiovascular conditions should avoid phentermine and other norepinephrine diet pill products. If any symptoms occur, patients are advised to stop taking the drug and seek other methods for weight loss.
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