Madeleine Hull
Phentermine is a prescription drug used to treat obesity in adults and children. It is often combined with topiramate, another drug, to help reduce appetite and manage weight. This combination is marketed under the brand name Qsymia. Phentermine is intended for short-term use and requires a prescription from a healthcare provider. It is typically used alongside lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise. While it can be an effective weight-loss tool, it may cause side effects such as difficulty sleeping, severe diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. It is important to consult a doctor or healthcare provider to explore the best weight-loss options and to ensure safe usage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Drug Name | Phentermine |
| Drug Type | Prescription drug |
| Drug Combination | Phentermine and Topiramate extended-release capsules |
| Drug Class | Anorectic |
| Mechanism of Action | Decreases appetite |
| Indications | Obesity, overweight with weight-related medical problems |
| Age Group | Adults and children aged 12 years or older |
| Administration | Oral, once daily in the morning |
| Dietary Instructions | Reduced-calorie diet |
| Lifestyle Changes | Regular exercise |
| Side Effects | Insomnia, severe diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, skin reactions, change in eyesight, increased body temperature, etc. |
| Interactions | May affect blood sugar levels, interacts with certain medications, herbs, supplements, alcohol, illegal drugs, etc. |
| Monitoring | Regular doctor visits, lab tests to check the body's response |
| Storage | Room temperature, away from heat and moisture, in a safe place |
| Cost | $98 for a 30-day prescription |
| Alternatives | Over-the-counter options like Alli (orlistat), natural supplements |
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What You'll Learn
Phentermine prescription requirements
Phentermine is a prescription weight loss medication. It was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1959 for short-term use of up to 12 weeks for people aged 16 and above. It is an inexpensive drug that decreases appetite and is used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and exercise to help people lose weight. Phentermine is a controlled substance due to the risk of dependence.
Phentermine is available only with a prescription and is generally considered safe and effective. It belongs to a class of drugs called anorectics, also known as appetite suppressants. The recommended maximum dosage of phentermine is 15 mg daily for patients with severe renal impairment. It is important to note that phentermine may impair the ability of the patient to engage in potentially hazardous activities such as operating machinery or driving a motor vehicle. It should be used with caution in patients with even mild hypertension as it may increase blood pressure.
Phentermine is also available in combination with another drug called topiramate, marketed under the brand name Qsymia. This combination is approved for long-term use and is even more effective than phentermine alone. Qsymia is FDA-approved for weight management in children aged 12-17 and adults. It is important to note that Qsymia should not be taken during pregnancy or by those with certain medical conditions such as glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, or severe kidney or liver disease.
When taking phentermine, it is important to be cautious about concomitant alcohol use as it may result in an adverse drug reaction. Additionally, requirements for insulin and oral hypoglycemic medications may be altered. Phentermine is not recommended for pediatric use as the safety and effectiveness have not been established. For geriatric use, caution is advised due to substantial renal excretion.
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Phentermine side effects
Phentermine is a drug approved for short-term weight loss in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or greater. It is also prescribed to people with a BMI of 27 kg/m2 or greater who have other risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. It is meant to be used in conjunction with a low-calorie diet, exercise, and behavioural changes. Phentermine is a controlled substance because it can be habit-forming and lead to dependence. Misuse can cause addiction, overdose, or even death.
Phentermine has several side effects, some of which are more common than others. These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. However, if the side effects bother you, last longer, or become severe, it is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Here are some of the more common side effects:
- Dry mouth: Phentermine can decrease saliva production, leading to a dry mouth. This can be unpleasant and may also cause difficulty swallowing and tooth decay. It is recommended to drink plenty of fluids and avoid sweet or salty foods when taking phentermine.
- Insomnia: Phentermine can cause trouble sleeping, especially if taken later in the evening. To avoid this, the last dose of the day should be taken 4 to 6 hours before bedtime, unless advised otherwise by a doctor.
- Tremors: Involuntary shaking is another possible side effect of phentermine. This is usually mild and goes away quickly, but it could indicate that the dose is too high. If tremors persist, it is important to inform your doctor.
- Increased heart rate: Phentermine may cause a fast heartbeat, which can be a serious side effect.
- High blood pressure: This is another serious side effect that has been reported with phentermine use.
- Restlessness: Phentermine can cause restlessness and decreased alertness or coordination.
Some rare but serious side effects of phentermine include:
- Heart valve problems
- Pulmonary hypertension (increased blood pressure in the lungs)
- Euphoria or a "high" feeling
- Mood changes: In rare cases, phentermine may cause severe mood changes, such as agitation or hallucinations.
- Allergic reaction: Symptoms of an allergic reaction can vary in severity, ranging from a mild rash to severe swelling or trouble breathing. These symptoms require immediate medical attention.
It is important to note that this list may not include all possible side effects, and individual experiences may vary. Combining phentermine with alcohol may also increase the risk of certain side effects, such as dizziness. Therefore, it is generally recommended to limit alcohol consumption while taking phentermine.
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Phentermine alternatives
Phentermine is a widely used weight-loss medication. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, and alternatives are available.
Topiramate (Topamax) is an oral medication that reduces appetite and helps people feel full sooner. It is FDA-approved to treat seizures and migraines. Clinical studies found that after 24 weeks, people taking topiramate lost around 5% of their body weight.
Orlistat (Xenical, Alli) is an older medication available by prescription and over the counter. It is an oral capsule taken three times a day with meals. Orlistat works in the digestive system to prevent the body from absorbing fats from food. Over half of adults taking orlistat lost at least 5% of their body weight after one year. Side effects can include loose stools, oily stools, and gas with oily spotting.
Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion) is an FDA-approved prescription medication for chronic weight management. It contains naltrexone, an opioid antagonist, and bupropion, an antidepressant, which work on two areas of the brain involved in the appetite and reward system. Contrave is suitable for adults with a BMI of 30 or more or a BMI of 27 or more with at least one weight-related risk factor. Common side effects include nausea, constipation, diarrhoea, headache, vomiting, dizziness, trouble sleeping, and dry mouth. Contrave has an FDA-required black box warning due to the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviours associated with its antidepressant ingredient.
Zepbound (tirzepatide) is an injectable phentermine alternative approved for adults. It mimics the actions of two hormones: GLP-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). Clinical studies show that 80-90% of people taking the highest dosage lost 5% or more of their starting body weight, with an average weight loss of around 20%. Side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, heartburn, and injection site reactions.
Wegovy (semaglutide) is another injectable alternative. It is approved for children ages 12 and older and has similar effects to Zepbound.
It is important to note that natural alternatives, such as dietary supplements, are generally not recommended due to their lack of effectiveness and potential harm. Weight-loss medications should be combined with regular exercise and a reduced-calorie diet for the best results.
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Phentermine drug interactions
Phentermine is a drug used to aid weight loss in certain adults who are overweight or obese. It is typically prescribed for short-term use alongside diet and exercise. It is important to note that phentermine has many known interactions with other drugs, supplements, and foods, and it is advised that you consult your doctor or pharmacist about any potential drug interactions before taking phentermine.
Phentermine has possible interactions with alcohol, certain drugs, and supplements. Alcohol consumption during phentermine treatment may increase the risk and severity of side effects such as dizziness. It is therefore recommended to limit alcohol consumption or avoid it altogether while taking phentermine.
Phentermine also interacts with certain diabetes medications, including insulin and drugs that increase insulin release, such as sulfonylureas. Taking phentermine with these medications can further lower blood sugar levels, requiring close monitoring and potential adjustments to the diabetes medication.
In addition, phentermine interacts with stimulant medications, including methylphenidate, which can increase the risk of serious side effects such as high blood pressure, rapid heart rate, anxiety, insomnia, and, in severe cases, heart attack or stroke. Phentermine is also known to interact with certain antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which can lead to life-threatening serotonin syndrome.
Other drugs that interact with phentermine include antihypertensives, antipsychotics, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). MAOIs, in particular, can trigger an adrenaline surge, causing a hypertensive crisis. It is important to stop taking MAOIs at least 14 days before starting phentermine to avoid this interaction.
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Phentermine dosage instructions
Phentermine is a prescription medication used for weight loss. It is typically used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. It is available in the following forms: capsules, disintegrating tablets, extended-release capsules, and tablets. The dosage varies depending on the form, but it typically ranges from 15 mg to 37.5 mg per day for people aged 17 and above. It is not approved for use in children aged 16 and younger.
It is important to carefully follow the dosing instructions for the form of phentermine you are using. For example, the extended-release capsule should be swallowed whole and not crushed, broken, or chewed. The Suprenza disintegrating tablet can be taken with or without food. Make sure your hands are dry before touching the tablet and place it on your tongue right after removing it from the bottle. It should melt quickly, and then you can swallow it with or without water.
For the regular tablet, it is recommended to take the lowest effective dose. It is usually taken once daily, with or without food. It is best to take your dose in the morning, as taking it in the evening could keep you awake. However, some forms, like Lomaira, are taken three times daily before meals. In this case, take your last dose earlier in the evening to avoid insomnia.
Phentermine is a controlled substance, and it is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions for taking it safely. It is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and you should inform your doctor if you are considering becoming pregnant. Additionally, elderly patients may require a lower dose due to the increased likelihood of age-related liver, kidney, or heart problems.
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Frequently asked questions
Phentermine is a prescription drug used to treat obesity in adults and children aged 12 and older. It is used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and exercise to reduce appetite and manage weight.
Phentermine is a prescription drug, so you will need to consult your doctor to obtain a prescription. You can then take this prescription to a pharmacy to be filled.
Yes, there are several over-the-counter alternatives to phentermine, including Alli (orlistat) and natural supplements. There are also other prescription medications that can be used as alternatives to phentermine, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which are a class of medications that help manage diabetes and support weight management.
Yes, it is important to discuss any potential side effects with your doctor before taking phentermine. Some possible side effects include difficulty sleeping, increased body temperature, and serious skin reactions. Phentermine may also affect blood sugar levels and is not recommended for those with glaucoma or thyroid problems. It is important to disclose your full medical history and list of medications to your doctor before starting phentermine.
