Phentermine Dosing Information

Phentermine is an effective amphetamine type of weight-loss prescription that is used by patients to decrease appetite. Most patients who begin using Phentermine for weight loss will begin to see results immediately upon taking the medication. The average amount of weight loss is 8 to 12 pounds a month. Phentermine must be used in conjunction with behavioral modifications, an improved daily diet and regular exercise to achieve optimum results and promote long-term weight loss.

Dosing Information

Patients take daily doses of Phentermine in either 15, 30 or 37.5 mg pills to suppress their appetite to achieve weight loss. Patients who experience persistent hunger can increase their dosing amount and usually improve appetite suppression. Those who experience irritating side effects can decrease their dosing amount and typically find comfort and continue taking the medication. Patients are encouraged to take the medication for a maximum of 12 weeks.

Side Effects

Phentermine is a stimulant medication that can affect sleep patterns and cause dry mouth conditions. Those experiencing sleep problems due to the medication should take their daily dose earlier in the day to allow time in the evening for the medication to wear off and promote regular sleep. Patients experiencing dry mouth conditions can increase fluid intake to remedy the problem. Additional side effects caused by Phentermine can include mild headaches, constipation, irritability, restlessness, anxiety, occasional heart racing sensations, blurred vision and dizziness. The side effects of Phentermine tend to subside within the first few weeks of treatment in most patients.

Considerations

Patients taking routine urine drug testing need to notify employers and anyone else requiring drug testing that they are taking the medication before testing is performed. Phentermine has a similar chemical composition to amphetamines, which can trigger positive results on drug testing.

Misconceptions

Phentermine was once a component in the popular Fen-Phen weight loss medication combination. Fenfluramine, also known as Pondimin, was voluntarily removed from U.S. markets by request of the FDA it was causing heart valve damage. Phentermine was not found to contribute to the heart valve damage and was allowed to stay on the market.

Warning

Patients taking Phentermine should never increase their dosage amount in hopes of triggering an increased effect and additional weight loss. Taking high amounts of Phentermine for extended periods of time can cause skin problems, sleep problems, personality changes, hyperactivity and irritability.

References

• Phentermine Frequently Asked Questions