Phentermine is a weight loss drug that is available with a prescription from your doctor. It is a stimulant that has appetite-suppressing properties. Phentermine is approved for short-term use of up to 12 weeks because it is similar to an amphetamine and is considered addictive. While phentermine can help you to shed unwanted pounds if you are overweight, taking the pills alone won't do any good. Instead, you have to make lifestyle changes that support your desire to lose weight and keep that weight off.
Step 1
Take your phentermine pills exactly as directed by your doctor. Some pills are extended-release formulas that you take only once per day. Other pills are taken three times per day. Regardless of the formula you take, you must take each pill at least 30 minutes before you eat. If you take the once-a-day formula, you must take it prior to eating breakfast. If you take the three-times-per-day formula, you must take a pill prior to each meal.
Step 2
Choose healthy foods to eat at each meal or snack. Fruits and vegetables are good choices, as they contain nutrients without adding too many calories or fat grams to your daily intake. Lean proteins, such as fish or white meat chicken, are good meat choices. Low-fat or fat-free dairy products should be chosen instead of full-fat versions. Whole grains are a better choice than refined grains such as white bread.
Step 3
Exercise on a regular basis. When you exercise, you should sweat and your heart rate should increase; however, you shouldn't be so out of breath that you can't speak. While you may not be able to exercise successfully for the recommended 60-minute minimum each day all-in-one session, you can break up this time into six sessions that last 10 minutes each. You can do any physical activity that you enjoy and your doctor approves. Walking, running, swimming, playing basketball or tennis, and aerobics are some of your choices. If your current weight makes exercise difficult, consider water aerobics because the water helps to support your body while providing a little resistance.
Step 4
Pay attention to how you feel while you take phentermine. Diarrhea, vomiting, dry mouth, taste changes and constipation are common side effects associated with taking phentermine. Tell your doctor if you experience any of these and increase your water intake to prevent dehydration and alleviate constipation and dry mouth. If you notice any of the serious side effects associated with phentermine, such as dizziness, heart palpitations, chest pain, tremors, insomnia, swelling of your legs or ankles, or shortness of breath, head to your local emergency room for treatment.
Tips and Warnings
- When your doctor prescribes phentermine, she will give you a personalized guideline for the number of calories and fats you should eat each day. Follow the guidelines to maximize your weight loss while you take phentermine. Once you stop taking phentermine, you can continue to follow the guidelines as long as you continue to lose weight. If you stop losing weight, the guidelines may be too high and you should ask your doctor for a new set of guidelines.
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