Phentermine hydrochloride, or phentermine, is a prescription stimulant similar to an amphetamine, used as a short-term obesity treatment. It acts as an appetite suppressant and is in a class of drugs called anorectics. Phentermine is used in conjunction with exercise and calorie reduction to expedite weight loss and used to be part of a weight loss drug called Phen-Fen, which was removed from the market.
How it's Used
Phentermine comes as tablets and extended-release capsules and is generally taken once daily, 30 minutes before meals. Because it can be habit-forming, phentermine is generally used for three to six weeks, but the length of treatment depends on your individual response to the medication.
Side Effects
It is important to take phentermine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, but even if you follow your doctor's instructions, there are side effects to be aware of. The most common side effects include dry mouth, constipation, diarrhea, unpleasant taste and vomiting. Consult your doctor if side effects do not go away or if you develop more serious side effects, such as heart palpitations, dizziness, chest pain, tremor or shortness of breath.
Fen-Phen Controversy
Phentermine was once combined with fenfluramine, another appetite suppressant, in a weight-loss drug known as fen-phen. Due to serious adverse health effects such as heart valve damage and pulmonary hypertension, high blood pressure in lung arteries, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration removed fen-phen from the U.S market. The FDA determined the combination of fenfluramine and phentermine posed too many serious health effects, holding fenfluramine particularly responsible and concluded that phentermine taken on its own is safe.
Precautions
Phentermine decreases appetite, partly by increasing serotonin levels, a brain chemical responsible for mood, appetite and sleep-wake cycles. You should not take phentermine if you are taking antidepressants known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors, as they also increase serotonin levels. It is also important to tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart disease, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma or a history of drug abuse.
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