Phentermine, a stimulant that affects the central nervous system, is an appetite suppressant used to help obese people with high-risk factors, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, lose weight. Phentermine is meant to be used in partnership with exercise and a low-calorie diet and should be used for a limited time only. As with any medication, you should take into consideration some aspects of this drug before implementing it into your daily routine.
Precautions
Before obtaining a prescription for phentermine, tell your doctor if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, also known as MAO or MAIO, within the past 14 days, reports Drugs.com. MAO inhibitors come in a variety of forms, including tranylcypromine -- or Parnate -- isocarboxazid -- or Marplan -- and rasagiline -- or Azilect. Taking phentermine before MAO inhibitors have cleared from your system can cause life-threatening side effects. Your doctor may choose not to prescribe phentermine if you have or have had an assortment of health conditions, such as glaucoma, severe high blood pressure or heart disease. Always mention your conditions and the medications you are taking to your doctor to ensure a safe prescription for phentermine.
Routine
Phentermine is prescribed in tablet and extended-release capsule form and is usually taken three times a day or in single daily dose. Take the medication only as directed by your physician and as is indicated specifically on the drug's container. Typically, phentermine should be taken 30 minutes before meals and is used for a three-to-six-week period, depending on how your body reacts to the drug. Never take phentermine more often, in larger doses or for a longer period of time than prescribed, advises the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Phentermine is meant to help lose weight only in partnership with a healthy diet and exercise.
Side Effects
Phentermine, while effective in suppressing appetite for the intent of losing weight, may cause side effects, such as diarrhea, dry mouth, an unpleasant taste, constipation and vomiting. Report these side effects to your doctor if they do not go away or are severe. The NCBI suggests that if you experience any of the drug's more serious side effects, such as increased blood pressure, dizziness, shortness of breath or chest pain, contact your physician right away. These side effects can also have a negative impact on the diet and exercise aspects of your weight loss program.
Miscellaneous
In addition to following your phentermine medication routine, be sure to give as much attention to your diet and exercise routines, suggests Drugs.com. Using this three-pronged approach to losing weight will increase the chances of meeting your weight-loss goals. Phentermine can be habit-forming and should never be taken by someone to whom it was not prescribed. You should never stop using the drug suddenly, as unpleasant withdrawal symptoms may occur. Confer with your doctor when you wish to stop taking the drug.
Member Comments