The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that 34 percent of people in the United States were obese as of 2005. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDKD), obesity puts people at increased risk for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and even some forms of cancer. One available drug that aids in weight loss is Bontril (generic name phendimetrazine), an appetite suppressant. However, taking Bontril comes with possible side effects.
Cardiovascular Side Effects
Taking Bontril may increase the risk of developing valvular heart disease. Drugs.com reports that Bontril may cause this disease when used in conjunction with other drugs, especially when used with other weight-loss medications. However, no valvular heart disease has been reported when using Bontril alone. In addition to valvular heart disease, Bontril may cause other cardiovascular side effects. According to Drugs.com, these side effects include rapid heart rate and elevated blood pressure. The Mayo Clinic reports that increased blood pressure is a more common side effect.
Central Nervous System (CNS) Side Effects
Taking Bontril may also cause side effects that involve the central nervous system (CNS), according to Drugs.com. These side effects include over-stimulation, blurred vision, insomnia, flushing, tremor, sweating and dizziness. The Mayo Clinic also reports these side effects, but says they are less common.
Psychological Side Effects
Appetite suppressants, including Bontril, have the potential to cause disturbing psychological side effects. One such side effect is paranoia, according to the Mayo Clinic. For example, a person may feel that others can hear his thoughts, or that others are watching him and/or controlling his behavior. Depression is also a possible psychological side effect of Bontril. The Mayo Clinic advises consulting a medical professional for more information about these psychological side effects of Bontril.
Other Side Effects
Additional side effects possible with Bontril include nausea or vomiting, trouble sleeping, irritability, dry mouth and constipation. These are more common side effects. The Mayo Clinic says that medical attention is not necessary for these symptoms unless they are bothersome or do not go away.
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