Phentermine is a drug in the amphetamine class that’s manufactured under brand names such as Adipex-P and Ionamin. It was approved in 1959 by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an appetite suppressant. The use of phentermine can lead to physical dependence and it is classified as a schedule IV drug.
Body Mass Index
Phentermine is usually recommended only for obese patients. A patient’s body mass index (BMI) should be at least 27 with additional risk factors for heart disease before receiving a prescription for phentermine. Patients who are generally healthy should have a BMI of at least 30. The BMI may be calculated by dividing the patient’s weight in kilograms by the square of the height in meters.
Contraindications
The most significant contraindications for phentermine are additional medications for weight loss or a history of drug abuse. The use of some antidepressants may also disqualify a patient from taking phentermine. Medical conditions such as heart disease, pregnancy, diabetes and glaucoma may also make a patient ineligible to take phentermine.
Use
It’s essential that phentermine should be used according to the instructions, particularly in regard to the dosage and frequency. The most common schedule for phentermine is a single dose one hour after breakfast. It may also be taken in three daily doses, 30 minutes before each meal.
Duration
Phentermine is suitable only for short-term use due to its potential for abuse and should be used in conjunction with a diet and exercise plan. It’s generally used for a period of three to six weeks, depending on the patient’s reaction.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of phentermine include constipation, diarrhea and vomiting. A physician should be contacted if these symptoms are severe or persistent. The more severe side effects of phentermine include heart palpitations, chest pains, high blood pressure and shortness of breath. A physician should be contacted immediately if a patient experiences any of these symptoms.
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