What is phentermine?
phentermine is similar to an amphetamine. It stimulates the central nervous system (nerves and brain), which increases your heart rate and blood pressure and decreases your appetite. Phentermine is used together with diet and exercise to treat obesity, especially in people with risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. Phentermine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
|
WHAT ARE DOSAGES OF PHENTERMINE?
Phentermine 15 mg
Phentermine 15mg is the lowest-available dose of generic phentermine. It is ideal for patients that are:
- New to phentermine
- Sensitive to stimulants
- Interested in taking phentermine 2x per day
- Weaning off phentermin
Phentermine 30 mg
Phentermine 30 mg is the second-highest dose of phentermine. It is sold as a generic capsule and should be taken once a day, about two hours after breakfast. Phentermine 30 mg capsules are unique because they are formulated as extended-release capsules. These pills are designed to prolong the medication’s appetite-suppressing & energy-boosting effects for up to 12-14 hours a day. Some patients also to achieve a daily phentermine dosage of 30 mg by taking two 15 mg capsules: one in the morning and one in the early afternoon. These split doses are particularly beneficial for people that struggle with afternoon and evening cravings .
Phentermine 37.5 mg
Phentermine 37.5 mg is the most commonly-prescribed dose due to its widespread availability, high effectiveness, relative affordability and overall convenience. It is also the highest dose of phentermine available in most countries, including the US, Mexico, Argentina and Chile.
Uses
Phentermine is used with a doctor-approved exercise, behavior change, and reduced-calorie diet program to help you lose weight. It is used by certain overweight people, such as those who are obese or have weight-related medical problems. Losing weight and keeping it off can lessen the many health risks that come with obesity, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and a shorter life.It is not known how this medication helps people to lose weight. It may work by decreasing your appetite, increasing the amount of energy used by your body, or by affecting certain parts of the brain. This medication is an appetite suppressant and belongs to a class of drugs called sympathomimetic amines.
How should I take phentermine?
Take phentermine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Doses are normally taken before breakfast, or 1 to 2 hours after breakfast. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully. Never use phentermine in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Taking more of this medication will not make it more effective and can cause serious, life-threatening side effects. This medicine is for short-term use only. The effects of appetite suppression may wear off after a few weeks. Phentermine may be habit-forming. Misuse can cause addiction, overdose, or death. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law. Call your doctor at once if you think this medicine is not working as well, or if you have not lost at least 4 pounds within 4 weeks. Do not stop using this medicine suddenly, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Ask your doctor how to safely stop using this medicine. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Side effects of phentermine
Phentermine alone is designed for short-term use only, as there are few long-term studies on its safety. One study observed that people experienced no significant side effects when they took phentermine for up to 24 months (10Trusted Source). However, the FDA has approved phentermine in combination with topiramate for long-term use, since the doses of the two ingredients are lower than the maximum doses of the individual drugs (20Trusted Source).
The most commonly reported side effects of phentermine and combined phentermine and topiramate are (6Trusted Source, 20Trusted Source, 21Trusted Source):
The most commonly reported side effects of phentermine and combined phentermine and topiramate are (6Trusted Source, 20Trusted Source, 21Trusted Source):
- dry mouth
- sleep problems
- dizziness
- heart palpitations
- skin flushing
- fatigue
- constipation
- irritability
- nausea
- vomiting