Phentermine (Adipex)
Phentermine is a sympathomimetic aminophylline similar to amphetamine. The drug also elongs to the class of anorectics. Phentermine stimulates the central nervous system (nerves and brain), increasing the patient’s heart rate and blood pressure and reducing appetite. Phentermine is used as a short term supplement to diet and exercise in treating obesity. Phentermine is used in other cases not listed in this guide.
The medicine is also widely known in another pharmacological form identical to it in contents – Adipex-P.
Phentermine should not be used in patients with the following conditions:
• heart disease or high blood pressure;
• arteriosclerosis;
• glaucoma.
The application of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnat) or phenelzine (Nardil) during the course of the last 14 days or abuse of drugs or alcohol is also a strong contraindication for Phentermine therapy.
Before taking this medication you should tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
• thyroid problems;
• anxiety disorder;
• epilepsy or seizures
• diabetes.
If you suffer from one or more of the conditions listed above, you cannot take Phentermine, or you may need a special dosage adjustment and constant supervision during its application.
The effects of Phetnermine on the fetus are unknown. Pregnant women should not take Phentermine on their own accord, without consulting their doctor. It is also unknown whether Phentermine is capable of being absorbed into breast milk.
Phentermine should be taken exactly as recommended by your doctor. To clarify the indications for use, contact your doctor or pharmacist. Take each dose with a full glass of water.
As a rule, Phentermine is taken once of twice during the day, before meals or on an empty stomach.
Phentermine is not recommended to be taken before bedtime because it may cause insomnia. Phentermine tablets or capsules should be swallowed in one piece. Overdosing Phentermine can be dangerous for your health.
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Phentermine may cause dizziness, blurred vision, or restlessness, and it can suppress symptoms of extreme tiredness. If you experience these effects, avoid potentially risky activities.
In the case of manifestation of one or more side effects, stop taking the drug and consult the prescriber:
• Allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; narrowing of the throat, swelling of the lips, tongue, or face;, or hives);
• Irregular heartbeat or dangerously high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision), or
• hallucinations, abnormal behavior or confusion.
More likely, however, is the occurrence of other, less serious side effects. Continue to take Phentermine, but seek advice of your doctor if you experience the following symptoms:
• Restlessness or tremor
• Nervousness or anxiety
• Headache or dizziness
• Insomnia
• Dryness or unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Impotence or decreased sex drive.
Phentermine is habit forming. When taking the medication physical and psychological dependence is a distinct possibility; when Phentermine course is suddenly discontinued after several weeks of continuous taking, abstinence effects may occur. Talk to your doctor about gradually withdrawing the drug.
You may experience other side effects. In the event of unusual or unpleasant conditions contact your doctor soonest.