5 Things You Need to Know About Adipex

1. You Must Meet Certain Criteria

Adipex is a prescription drug used as an appetite suppressant in people who are extremely overweight. Patients also must suffer from a condition like high cholesterol, diabetes or high blood pressure to qualify for an Adipex prescription. Patients should have a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher. Your BMI is a calculation of body fat based on your height and weight. For example, a person measuring 5 feet 5 inches and weighing 162 lbs. has a BMI of 27.

2. Adipex Might Hook You

Adipex is listed as a controlled substance and is a lot like amphetamines. This presents a possibility of addiction to Adipex in people who use the drug steadily for extended periods. Most physicians recommend staying on Adipex for just a few weeks before taking a break from the medication. Only the person named in the prescription should take Adipex. You shouldn't share this potentially addictive drug with anyone else.

3. Avoid an Appetite Suppressant Cocktail

Adipex is the brand name of the drug phentermine. Mixing this diet medication with other diet drugs, such as fenfluramine (better known as Phen-Fen) or dexflenfluramine (also called Redux) can lead to pulmonary hypertension, or high blood pressure in the vessels carrying blood to the lungs. This disorder is normally pretty rare, but it's also fatal. Always ask your doctor before you take any other medications while taking Adipex.

4. Diet Pills Aren't for Everyone

People with heart disease shouldn't take Adipex. Allergies to stimulants prohibit the use of Adipex, as do glaucoma, overactive thyroid or a history of addiction to drugs or alcohol. Your doctor may adjust your dosage of Adipex or administer further tests to allow you to take this medication if you suffer from an anxiety or a seizure disorder.

5. Lose Weight, Not Normal Body Functions

Adipex can cause some serious side effects such as rapid heartbeat, confusion, chest pain, shortness of breath, an increase in blood pressure or swelling of feet or ankles. If you notice any of these symptoms after taking Adipex, consult your health care provider immediately. Adipex can also cause anxiety, itchiness, insomnia, dizziness, headache, dry mouth, changes in bowel movements including diarrhea or constipation, changes in your sex drive, too much energy, restlessness or euphoria. Discuss any of these symptoms with your doctor if they bother you too much or seem excessive.

Last updated on: Nov 18, 2009

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