Side Effects of Adipex-P
Adipex-P is a central-nervous-system stimulant drug that suppresses appetite. A brand name for phentermine, Adipex-P is prescribed to assist obese people with weight loss on a short-term basis. The drug is primarily prescribed to people who are at immediate risk for serious medical problems because of their weight. These patients may have diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Many side effects are possible, but most people do not have much trouble with Adipex-P.
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Stimulant Side Effects
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Many side effects associated with Adipex-P are a direct result of the stimulant effect. These include general feelings of overstimulation, hyperactivity, insomnia, elevated blood pressure, heart palpitations or rapid heartbeat, restlessness and tremors or shakiness. Blood pressure and heart symptoms may call for medical attention.
Other Physical Effects
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Other side effects associated with Adipex-P include dizziness, headache, dry mouth, unpleasant taste, constipation or diarrhea, stomach upset, changes in sex drive and impotence. Rarely, people can experience an allergic reaction to the drug, with signs of rash or hives, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing or difficulty swallowing.
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Primary Pulmonary Hypertension
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A life-threatening reaction called primary pulmonary hypertension can occur when taking Adipex-P, although this is uncommon. Symptoms include chest pain, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, bluish lips or skin, dizziness, fainting, fatigue and swollen ankles. Patients with these symptoms should seek emergency medical attention.
Psychological Side Effects
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Psychological effects also can occur with Adipex-P, and more serious effects usually result from taking too much of the drug. Possible psychological side effects include euphoria or depression, agitation, hostile or aggressive behavior, unusual or strange behavior, and hallucinations.
Drug Interactions
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Adipex-P should not be used along with other weight-loss drugs. In particular, the combination of phentermine and fenfluramine (FEN-PHEN) resulted in reports of serious heart problems. Fenfluramine is no longer available in the United States. Adipex-P also should not be combined with tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), insulin and other diabetes medications, sodium bicarbonate medications or alcohol.
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