What is Phentermine?
Phentermine is a stimulant drug that is used as an appetite suppressant. It is typically prescribed for individuals who are considered to be clinically obese, and is usually used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and regular exercise.
Phentermine works by stimulating the hypothalamus gland in the brain, which is responsible for regulating appetite. It increases the release of certain neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and dopamine, which can help to reduce feelings of hunger and increase feelings of fullness.
Phentermine is available in both tablet and capsule form, and is typically taken once a day, before breakfast or 1-2 hours after breakfast. It is important to note that phentermine should not be taken in the evening, as it can cause insomnia.
Phentermine is considered a controlled substance by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and is available by prescription only. It should only be taken under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.
In summary, Phentermine is a stimulant drug that is used as an appetite suppressant for individuals who are considered clinically obese. It should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider, and only for short-term use.
How does phentermine work?
Phentermine is a stimulant drug that is used as an appetite suppressant to aid in weight loss. It works by targeting the hypothalamus, a small region in the brain that plays a crucial role in regulating appetite and metabolism.
When phentermine is consumed, it increases the levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and dopamine, in the hypothalamus. Norepinephrine is a chemical messenger that helps to reduce feelings of hunger and increases feelings of fullness. Dopamine, on the other hand, is a neurotransmitter associated with reward, motivation, and pleasure, it can make food less appealing, helping to reduce cravings.
The increased levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain lead to suppression of appetite and can make individuals feel full for a longer period of time, which can lead to weight loss. Additionally, Phentermine may also increase metabolic rate, thermogenesis, which is the production of heat by the body, this can also lead to weight loss by burning more calories.
It’s important to note that Phentermine should be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and regular exercise as it is not intended as a sole treatment for weight loss, but as a support for a comprehensive weight management program. Also, it is important to note that Phentermine is considered a short-term treatment for weight loss and typically prescribed for a period of 12 weeks or less, its effectiveness decreases over time and should not be used for long-term weight management.
It is only available by prescription and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.
How do i take Phentermine?
Phentermine is typically taken once a day, before breakfast or 1-2 hours after breakfast, and it is important to take it at the same time every day. It is available in both tablet and capsule form, and the dosage will depend on your individual needs and the recommendation of your healthcare provider.
It’s important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the label on the medication when taking phentermine. You should never take a higher dose or take it more frequently than prescribed.
Here are some general guidelines to follow when taking phentermine:
- Take the medication with a full glass of water to help with swallowing.
- Do not crush or chew the tablet, swallow it whole.
- Avoid taking the medication late in the day, as it may cause insomnia.
- Do not stop taking the medication abruptly, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms. If you need to stop taking the medication, your healthcare provider will gradually reduce the dose to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
- Do not take the medication if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, Phentermine is not recommended for those groups.
- Store the medication in a safe place, out of reach of children and pets.
- Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, vitamins or supplements you are taking, as they may interact with phentermine.
It is important to keep all your appointments with your healthcare provider while taking phentermine. Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress and may adjust the dosage or frequency of the medication as needed.
It is also important to note that phentermine is intended for short-term use and should not be used for long-term weight management. Its effectiveness decreases over time, and it should not be used for more than 12 weeks at a time.
Side effect of Phentermine
Phentermine is a stimulant drug that can cause a range of side effects, some of which can be mild and others more severe. The most common side effects of phentermine include:
- Dry mouth: This is a common side effect and can be relieved by drinking water or sucking on sugar-free candy.
- Insomnia: Phentermine may cause difficulty sleeping, it’s recommended to take it early in the day to avoid this side effect.
- Headaches: Some people may experience headaches while taking phentermine. These can usually be treated with over-the-counter pain medication.
- Constipation: Phentermine may cause constipation, drinking plenty of water and eating a high-fiber diet can help prevent this side effect.
Other side effects that have been reported less frequently include:
- High blood pressure: Phentermine may cause an increase in blood pressure, so it’s important to have your blood pressure checked regularly while taking the medication.
- Heart palpitations: Phentermine may cause an irregular heartbeat, if you experience this side effect, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
- Chest pain: Phentermine may cause chest pain, if you experience chest pain, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
- Dizziness, restlessness, agitation, hallucinations, depression, and tremor.
It is important to inform your healthcare provider if you experience any side effects while taking phentermine, especially if they are severe or persistent. If you experience any severe side effects, such as chest pain or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
It’s also important to note that Phentermine is not recommended for certain groups, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with heart disease, high blood pressure, and other serious medical conditions. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have before starting treatment with phentermine.