Before taking phentermine, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:
medicines to treat high blood pressure;
insulin or diabetes medication you take by mouth;
guanadrel (Hylorel), guanethidine (Ismelin);
antidepressants such as citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem), fluvoxamine (Luvox), paroxetine (Paxil), or sertraline (Zoloft); or
antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil, Etrafon), amoxapine (Ascendin), clomipramine (Anafranil), desipramine (Norpramin), doxepin (Sinequan), imipramine (Janimine, Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), protriptyline (Vivactil), or trimipramine (Surmontil).
If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to use phentermine, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.
There may be other drugs not listed that can affect phentermine. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.
Showing posts with label phentermine. Show all posts
Showing posts with label phentermine. Show all posts
Monday, May 21, 2007
What are the possible side effects of phentermine?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using phentermine and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
chest pain, swelling in your ankles or feet, feeling light-headed, fainting, or feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion;
fast or uneven heartbeat;
unusual thoughts or behavior, feeling restless or confused; or
increased blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, trouble concentrating, chest pain, numbness, seizure).
Less serious side effects may be more likely to occur, such as:
feeling nervous or anxious;
headache, dizziness, tremors;
trouble sleeping (insomnia);
dry mouth or an unpleasant taste in your mouth;
diarrhea or constipation; or
itching.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
chest pain, swelling in your ankles or feet, feeling light-headed, fainting, or feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion;
fast or uneven heartbeat;
unusual thoughts or behavior, feeling restless or confused; or
increased blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, trouble concentrating, chest pain, numbness, seizure).
Less serious side effects may be more likely to occur, such as:
feeling nervous or anxious;
headache, dizziness, tremors;
trouble sleeping (insomnia);
dry mouth or an unpleasant taste in your mouth;
diarrhea or constipation; or
itching.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What should I avoid while taking phentermine?
Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of phentermine. Phentermine can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medication. An overdose of phentermine can be fatal.
Symptoms of a phentermine overdose may include confusion, hallucinations, feeling restless or aggressive, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, irregular heartbeat, tremors, rapid breathing, confusion, hallucinations, feeling light-headed, fainting, or seizure (convulsions).
Symptoms of a phentermine overdose may include confusion, hallucinations, feeling restless or aggressive, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, irregular heartbeat, tremors, rapid breathing, confusion, hallucinations, feeling light-headed, fainting, or seizure (convulsions).
What happens if I miss a dose?
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
How should I take phentermine?
Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Taking high doses of phentermine over long periods of time can cause severe skin problems, sleep problems (insomnia), personality changes, and feeling hyperactive or irritable. Take this medicine with a full glass of water. It is best to take phentermine on an empty stomach before breakfast, or at least 10 to 14 hours before bedtime.
Phentermine should be taken only for a short time, such as a few weeks.
Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-release capsule. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking or opening the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.
You may have withdrawal symptoms when you stop using phentermine after using it over a long period of time. Do not stop using this medication suddenly without first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely.
Do not take phentermine in the evening because it may cause sleep problems (insomnia).
Stop taking phentermine if you have increased hunger or if you otherwise think the medication is not working properly. Do not take more phentermine for an increased effect. Taking too much of this medication can cause serious, life-threatening side effects.
Phentermine may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Keep track of how many pills have been used from each new bottle of this medicine. Phentermine is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if any person in the household is using this medicine improperly or without a prescription. Store phentermine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Taking high doses of phentermine over long periods of time can cause severe skin problems, sleep problems (insomnia), personality changes, and feeling hyperactive or irritable. Take this medicine with a full glass of water. It is best to take phentermine on an empty stomach before breakfast, or at least 10 to 14 hours before bedtime.
Phentermine should be taken only for a short time, such as a few weeks.
Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-release capsule. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking or opening the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.
You may have withdrawal symptoms when you stop using phentermine after using it over a long period of time. Do not stop using this medication suddenly without first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely.
Do not take phentermine in the evening because it may cause sleep problems (insomnia).
Stop taking phentermine if you have increased hunger or if you otherwise think the medication is not working properly. Do not take more phentermine for an increased effect. Taking too much of this medication can cause serious, life-threatening side effects.
Phentermine may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Keep track of how many pills have been used from each new bottle of this medicine. Phentermine is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if any person in the household is using this medicine improperly or without a prescription. Store phentermine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking phentermine?
Do not take phentermine if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) within the past 14 days. Serious, life-threatening side effects can occur if you take phentermine before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body.
Taking phentermine together with other diet medications such as fenfluramine (Phen-Fen) or dexfenfluramine (Redux) can cause a rare fatal lung disorder called pulmonary hypertension. Do not take phentermine with any other diet medications without your doctor's advice.
Do not take this medication if you are allergic to phentermine or other stimulants, or if you have:
heart disease or high blood pressure;
arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries);
an overactive thyroid;
glaucoma;
if you are in an agitated state; or
if you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse.
Before taking phentermine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
problems with your thyroid,
an anxiety disorder,
epilepsy or another seizure disorder, or
diabetes.
If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use phentermine, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.
It is not known whether phentermine will harm an unborn baby. Do not take phentermine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is also not known whether phentermine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not take phentermine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give this medication to anyone younger than 16 years old without the advice of a doctor.
Taking phentermine together with other diet medications such as fenfluramine (Phen-Fen) or dexfenfluramine (Redux) can cause a rare fatal lung disorder called pulmonary hypertension. Do not take phentermine with any other diet medications without your doctor's advice.
Do not take this medication if you are allergic to phentermine or other stimulants, or if you have:
heart disease or high blood pressure;
arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries);
an overactive thyroid;
glaucoma;
if you are in an agitated state; or
if you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse.
Before taking phentermine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
problems with your thyroid,
an anxiety disorder,
epilepsy or another seizure disorder, or
diabetes.
If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use phentermine, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.
It is not known whether phentermine will harm an unborn baby. Do not take phentermine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is also not known whether phentermine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not take phentermine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give this medication to anyone younger than 16 years old without the advice of a doctor.
What is phentermine?
Phentermine is a stimulant that is similar to an amphetamine. Phentermine is an appetite suppressant that affects the central nervous system.
Phentermine is used togther with diet and exercise to treat obesity (overweight) in people with risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.
Phentermine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Phentermine is used togther with diet and exercise to treat obesity (overweight) in people with risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.
Phentermine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about phentermine?
Taking phentermine together with other diet medications such as fenfluramine (Phen-Fen) or dexfenfluramine (Redux) can cause a rare fatal lung disorder called pulmonary hypertension. Do not take phentermine with any other diet medications without your doctor's advice.
Phentermine can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of phentermine. Phentermine may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Keep track of how many pills have been used from each new bottle of this medicine. Phentermine is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if any person in the household is using this medicine improperly or without a prescription.
You may have withdrawal symptoms, such as depression and extreme tiredness, when you stop using phentermine after using it over a long period of time. Do not stop using phentermine suddenly without first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely.
Phentermine can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of phentermine. Phentermine may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Keep track of how many pills have been used from each new bottle of this medicine. Phentermine is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if any person in the household is using this medicine improperly or without a prescription.
You may have withdrawal symptoms, such as depression and extreme tiredness, when you stop using phentermine after using it over a long period of time. Do not stop using phentermine suddenly without first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely.
Side Effects of Phentermine
Appetite suppressants may cause some serious side effects, including heart and lung problems. You and your doctor should discuss the good this medicine may do as well as the risks of taking it.
Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:
Rare
Chest pain; decreased ability to exercise; fainting; swelling of feet or lower legs; trouble in breathing
Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:
More common
Increased blood pressure
Less common or rare
Difficult or painful urination; fast or irregular heartbeat; feeling that others can hear your thoughts; feeling that others are watching you or controlling your behavior; hallucinations (feeling, seeing, or hearing things that are not there); headache (severe); mental depression; numbness, especially on one side of the face or body; skin rash or hives; sore throat and fever (with diethylpropion); talking, feeling, and acting with excitement and activity you cannot control; unusual bleeding or bruising (with diethylpropion)
Symptoms of overdose
Abdominal or stomach cramps; coma; confusion; convulsions (seizures); diarrhea (severe); dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting; fast breathing; feeling of panic; fever; hallucinations (seeing, hearing or feeling things that are not there); high or low blood pressure; hostility with urge to attack; irregular heartbeat; nausea or vomiting (severe); overactive reflexes; restlessness; trembling or shaking; tiredness, weakness, and mental depression following effects of excitement
Abuse of a sympathomimetic appetite suppressant (taking the medicine in larger doses or taking it more frequently or for a longer time than the doctor ordered) can cause the following side effects:
Changes in personality; excessive, excited activity; irritability (severe); mental illness (severe), similar to schizophrenia; skin disease; trouble in sleeping (severe)
Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:
More common
Constipation; dizziness or lightheadedness; dryness of mouth; false sense of well-being; headache; irritability; nausea or vomiting; nervousness or restlessness; stomach cramps or pain; trembling or shaking; trouble in sleeping
Note:
After the stimulant effects have worn off, drowsiness, unusual tiredness or weakness, or mental depression may occur.
Less common or rare
Blurred vision; changes in sexual desire or decreased sexual ability; diarrhea; drowsiness; frequent urge to urinate or increased urination; increased sweating; unpleasant taste
Although not all of the side effects listed above have been reported for all of these medicines, they have been reported for at least one of them. However, since all of the sympathomimetic appetite suppressants are similar, any of the above side effects may occur with any of these medicines.
After you stop using this medicine, your body may need time to adjust. The length of time this takes depends on the amount of medicine you were using and how long you used it. During this time check with your doctor if you notice any of the following side effects:
Extreme tiredness or weakness; mental depression; nausea or vomiting; stomach cramps or pain; trembling; trouble in sleeping or nightmares
Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.
Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:
Rare
Chest pain; decreased ability to exercise; fainting; swelling of feet or lower legs; trouble in breathing
Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:
More common
Increased blood pressure
Less common or rare
Difficult or painful urination; fast or irregular heartbeat; feeling that others can hear your thoughts; feeling that others are watching you or controlling your behavior; hallucinations (feeling, seeing, or hearing things that are not there); headache (severe); mental depression; numbness, especially on one side of the face or body; skin rash or hives; sore throat and fever (with diethylpropion); talking, feeling, and acting with excitement and activity you cannot control; unusual bleeding or bruising (with diethylpropion)
Symptoms of overdose
Abdominal or stomach cramps; coma; confusion; convulsions (seizures); diarrhea (severe); dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting; fast breathing; feeling of panic; fever; hallucinations (seeing, hearing or feeling things that are not there); high or low blood pressure; hostility with urge to attack; irregular heartbeat; nausea or vomiting (severe); overactive reflexes; restlessness; trembling or shaking; tiredness, weakness, and mental depression following effects of excitement
Abuse of a sympathomimetic appetite suppressant (taking the medicine in larger doses or taking it more frequently or for a longer time than the doctor ordered) can cause the following side effects:
Changes in personality; excessive, excited activity; irritability (severe); mental illness (severe), similar to schizophrenia; skin disease; trouble in sleeping (severe)
Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:
More common
Constipation; dizziness or lightheadedness; dryness of mouth; false sense of well-being; headache; irritability; nausea or vomiting; nervousness or restlessness; stomach cramps or pain; trembling or shaking; trouble in sleeping
Note:
After the stimulant effects have worn off, drowsiness, unusual tiredness or weakness, or mental depression may occur.
Less common or rare
Blurred vision; changes in sexual desire or decreased sexual ability; diarrhea; drowsiness; frequent urge to urinate or increased urination; increased sweating; unpleasant taste
Although not all of the side effects listed above have been reported for all of these medicines, they have been reported for at least one of them. However, since all of the sympathomimetic appetite suppressants are similar, any of the above side effects may occur with any of these medicines.
After you stop using this medicine, your body may need time to adjust. The length of time this takes depends on the amount of medicine you were using and how long you used it. During this time check with your doctor if you notice any of the following side effects:
Extreme tiredness or weakness; mental depression; nausea or vomiting; stomach cramps or pain; trembling; trouble in sleeping or nightmares
Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.
Precautions While Using Phentermine
Your doctor should check your progress at regular visits to make sure that this medicine does not cause unwanted effects.
If you think this medicine is not working properly after you have taken it for a few weeks, do not increase the dose . Instead, check with your doctor.
Do not take an appetite suppressant with or less than 14 days after taking a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor . If you do, you may very suddenly develop extremely high blood pressure.
Taking a sympathomimetic appetite suppressant may cause a positive result in urine screening tests for amphetamines.
Sympathomimetic appetite suppressants may cause dryness of the mouth. For temporary relief, use sugarless candy or gum, melt bits of ice in your mouth, or use a saliva substitute. However, if your mouth continues to feel dry for more than 2 weeks, check with your medical doctor or dentist. Continuing dryness of the mouth may increase the chance of developing dental disease, including tooth decay, gum disease, and fungus infections.
This medicine may cause some people to feel a false sense of well-being or to become dizzy, lightheaded, drowsy, or less alert than they are normally. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are dizzy or are not alert .
Before having any kind of surgery, dental treatment, or emergency treatment, tell the medical doctor or dentist in charge that you are using this medicine . Taking appetite suppressants together with medicines that are used during surgery or dental or emergency treatments may cause serious side effects.
Check with your doctor immediately if you notice a decrease in your ability to exercise, if you faint, or if you have chest pain, swelling of your feet or lower legs, or trouble in breathing . These may be symptoms of very serious heart or lung problems.
If you have been taking this medicine for a long time or in large doses and you think you may have become mentally or physically dependent on it, check with your doctor .
Some signs of dependence on appetite suppressants are:
a strong desire or need to continue taking the medicine.
a need to increase the dose to receive the effects of the medicine.
withdrawal side effects (for example, mental depression, nausea or vomiting, stomach cramps or pain, trembling, unusual tiredness or weakness) when you stop taking the medicine.
For patients with diabetes :
This medicine may affect blood sugar levels. If you notice a change in the results of your urine or blood sugar test or if you have any questions, check with your doctor.
If you have been taking this medicine in large doses or for a long time, do not stop taking it without first checking with your doctor . Your doctor may want you to reduce gradually the amount you are taking before stopping completely. This will help prevent withdrawal side effects.
If you think this medicine is not working properly after you have taken it for a few weeks, do not increase the dose . Instead, check with your doctor.
Do not take an appetite suppressant with or less than 14 days after taking a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor . If you do, you may very suddenly develop extremely high blood pressure.
Taking a sympathomimetic appetite suppressant may cause a positive result in urine screening tests for amphetamines.
Sympathomimetic appetite suppressants may cause dryness of the mouth. For temporary relief, use sugarless candy or gum, melt bits of ice in your mouth, or use a saliva substitute. However, if your mouth continues to feel dry for more than 2 weeks, check with your medical doctor or dentist. Continuing dryness of the mouth may increase the chance of developing dental disease, including tooth decay, gum disease, and fungus infections.
This medicine may cause some people to feel a false sense of well-being or to become dizzy, lightheaded, drowsy, or less alert than they are normally. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are dizzy or are not alert .
Before having any kind of surgery, dental treatment, or emergency treatment, tell the medical doctor or dentist in charge that you are using this medicine . Taking appetite suppressants together with medicines that are used during surgery or dental or emergency treatments may cause serious side effects.
Check with your doctor immediately if you notice a decrease in your ability to exercise, if you faint, or if you have chest pain, swelling of your feet or lower legs, or trouble in breathing . These may be symptoms of very serious heart or lung problems.
If you have been taking this medicine for a long time or in large doses and you think you may have become mentally or physically dependent on it, check with your doctor .
Some signs of dependence on appetite suppressants are:
a strong desire or need to continue taking the medicine.
a need to increase the dose to receive the effects of the medicine.
withdrawal side effects (for example, mental depression, nausea or vomiting, stomach cramps or pain, trembling, unusual tiredness or weakness) when you stop taking the medicine.
For patients with diabetes :
This medicine may affect blood sugar levels. If you notice a change in the results of your urine or blood sugar test or if you have any questions, check with your doctor.
If you have been taking this medicine in large doses or for a long time, do not stop taking it without first checking with your doctor . Your doctor may want you to reduce gradually the amount you are taking before stopping completely. This will help prevent withdrawal side effects.
Proper Use of Phentermine
In order to prevent trouble in sleeping, if you are taking:
One dose of this medicine a day, take it about 10 to 14 hours before bedtime.
More than one dose of this medicine a day, take the last dose of the day about 4 to 6 hours before bedtime.
For patients taking a long-acting form of this medicine:
Swallow these capsules or tablets whole. Do not break, crush, or chew before swallowing.
For patients taking mazindol :
This medicine may be taken with food, if needed, to prevent stomach upset.
Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor . Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. If too much is taken, it may cause unwanted effects or become habit-forming.
If you think this medicine is not working properly after you have taken it for a few weeks, do not increase the dose . Instead, check with your doctor.
Dosing—The dose of appetite suppressants will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label . The following information includes only the average doses of appetite suppressants. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.
For benzphetamine
For oral dosage form (tablets):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—At first, 25 to 50 milligrams (mg) once a day, taken in midmorning or midafternoon. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
For diethylpropion
For oral dosage form (tablets):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—25 milligrams (mg) three times a day, taken one hour before meals.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
For long-acting oral dosage form (extended-release tablets):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—75 mg once a day, taken in midmorning.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
For mazindol
For oral dosage form (tablets):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—At first, 1 milligram (mg) once a day. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
For phendimetrazine
For long-acting oral dosage form (extended-release capsules):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—105 mg once a day, taken thirty to sixty minutes before the morning meal.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
For oral dosage form (tablets):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—17.5 to 35 mg two or three times a day, taken one hour before meals.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
For phentermine
For oral dosage form (capsules):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—15 to 37.5 milligrams (mg) once a day, taken before breakfast or one to two hours after breakfast.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
For oral dosage form (tablets):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—15 to 37.5 mg once a day, taken before breakfast or one to two hours after breakfast. Instead of taking it once a day, your doctor may tell you to take smaller doses thirty minutes before meals.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
For oral resin dosage form (capsules):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—15 to 30 mg once a day, taken before breakfast.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
Missed dose—If you miss a dose of this medicine, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
Storage—To store this medicine:
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store away from heat and direct light.
Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.
Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.
One dose of this medicine a day, take it about 10 to 14 hours before bedtime.
More than one dose of this medicine a day, take the last dose of the day about 4 to 6 hours before bedtime.
For patients taking a long-acting form of this medicine:
Swallow these capsules or tablets whole. Do not break, crush, or chew before swallowing.
For patients taking mazindol :
This medicine may be taken with food, if needed, to prevent stomach upset.
Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor . Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. If too much is taken, it may cause unwanted effects or become habit-forming.
If you think this medicine is not working properly after you have taken it for a few weeks, do not increase the dose . Instead, check with your doctor.
Dosing—The dose of appetite suppressants will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label . The following information includes only the average doses of appetite suppressants. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.
For benzphetamine
For oral dosage form (tablets):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—At first, 25 to 50 milligrams (mg) once a day, taken in midmorning or midafternoon. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
For diethylpropion
For oral dosage form (tablets):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—25 milligrams (mg) three times a day, taken one hour before meals.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
For long-acting oral dosage form (extended-release tablets):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—75 mg once a day, taken in midmorning.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
For mazindol
For oral dosage form (tablets):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—At first, 1 milligram (mg) once a day. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
For phendimetrazine
For long-acting oral dosage form (extended-release capsules):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—105 mg once a day, taken thirty to sixty minutes before the morning meal.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
For oral dosage form (tablets):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—17.5 to 35 mg two or three times a day, taken one hour before meals.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
For phentermine
For oral dosage form (capsules):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—15 to 37.5 milligrams (mg) once a day, taken before breakfast or one to two hours after breakfast.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
For oral dosage form (tablets):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—15 to 37.5 mg once a day, taken before breakfast or one to two hours after breakfast. Instead of taking it once a day, your doctor may tell you to take smaller doses thirty minutes before meals.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
For oral resin dosage form (capsules):
For appetite suppression:
Adults—15 to 30 mg once a day, taken before breakfast.
Children up to 16 years of age—Use is not recommended.
Missed dose—If you miss a dose of this medicine, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
Storage—To store this medicine:
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store away from heat and direct light.
Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.
Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.
Before Using Phentermine
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it may do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For sympathomimetic appetite suppressants, the following should be considered:
Allergies—Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or amphetamine, dextroamphetamine, ephedrine, epinephrine, isoproterenol, metaproterenol, methamphetamine, norepinephrine, phenylephrine, phenylpropanolamine, pseudoephedrine, terbutaline, or other appetite suppressants. Also tell your health care professional if you are allergic to any other substances, such as foods, preservatives, or dyes.
Diet—You must follow a reduced-calorie diet while using an appetite suppressant in order to lose weight. Also, in order to keep the lost weight from returning, changes in diet and exercise must be continued after the weight has been lost.
Pregnancy—If a pregnant woman takes this medicine in high doses or more often than the doctor has directed, it may cause withdrawal symptoms in the newborn baby. Also, medicines similar to sympathomimetic appetite suppressants can cause birth defects in the newborn baby if a pregnant woman takes them in high doses. Before taking this medicine, make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or if you may become pregnant.
Breast-feeding—Diethylpropion and benzphetamine pass into breast milk. It is not known if other sympathomimetic appetite suppressants pass into breast milk. However, use of sympathomimetic appetite suppressants during breast-feeding is not recommended, because it may cause unwanted effects in nursing babies.
Children—Studies on these medicines have been done only in adult patients, and there is no specific information comparing use of sympathomimetic appetite suppressants in children with use in other age groups. The use of these medicines by children younger than 16 years of age is not recommended.
Older adults—Many medicines have not been studied specifically in older people. Therefore, it may not be known whether they work exactly the same way they do in younger adults or if they cause different side effects or problems in older people. There is no specific information comparing use of appetite suppressants in the elderly with use in other age groups.
Other medicines—Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are taking appetite suppressants, it is especially important that your health care professional know if you are taking any of the following:
Amantadine (e.g., Symmetrel) or
Amphetamines or
Caffeine (e.g., NoDoz) or
Chlophedianol (e.g., Ulone) or
Cocaine or
Medicine for asthma or other breathing problems or
Medicine for colds, sinus problems, or hay fever or other allergies (including nose drops or sprays) or
Methylphenidate (e.g., Ritalin) or
Nabilone (e.g., Cesamet) or
Pemoline (e.g., Cylert)—Using these medicines with sympathomimetic appetite suppressants may increase the central nervous system (CNS) stimulant effects, such as irritability, nervousness, trembling or shaking, or trouble in sleeping
Appetite suppressants (diet pills), other or
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (citalopram [e.g., Celexa], fluoxetine [e.g., Prozac], fluvoxamine [e.g., Luvox], paroxetine [e.g., Paxil], sertraline [e.g., Zoloft])—It is not known whether using two different appetite suppressants together or using a sympathomimetic appetite suppressant with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor is safe and effective. There have been some serious unwanted effects on the hearts of people who used two different appetite suppressants together
Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor activity (isocarboxazid [e.g., Marplan], isocarboxazid [e.g., Marplan], phenelzine [e.g., Nardil], procarbazine [e.g., Matulane], selegiline [e.g., Eldepryl], tranylcypromine [e.g., Parnate])—Do not take an appetite suppressant while you are taking or less than 14 days after taking a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor . If you do, you may develop sudden extremely high blood pressure
Tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline [e.g., Elavil], amoxapine [e.g., Asendin], clomipramine [e.g., Anafranil], desipramine [e.g., Pertofrane], doxepin [e.g., Sinequan], imipramine [e.g., Tofranil], nortriptyline [e.g., Aventyl], protriptyline [e.g., Vivactil], trimipramine [e.g., Surmontil])—Using these medicines with sympathomimetic appetite suppressants may cause high blood pressure or irregular heartbeat
Other medical problems—The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of appetite suppressants. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:
Alcohol abuse (or history of) or
Drug abuse or dependence (or history of)—Dependence on appetite suppressants may be more likely to develop
Type 2 diabetes mellitus—The amount of insulin or oral antidiabetic medicine that you need to take may change
Epilepsy—Diethylpropion may increase the risk of having seizures
Family history of mental illness—Mental depression or other mental illness may be more likely to occur
Glaucoma or
Heart or blood vessel disease or
High blood pressure or
Mental illness or
Overactive thyroid—Appetite suppressants may make the condition worse
Kidney disease—Higher blood levels of the appetite suppressant may occur, increasing the chance of serious side effects
Allergies—Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or amphetamine, dextroamphetamine, ephedrine, epinephrine, isoproterenol, metaproterenol, methamphetamine, norepinephrine, phenylephrine, phenylpropanolamine, pseudoephedrine, terbutaline, or other appetite suppressants. Also tell your health care professional if you are allergic to any other substances, such as foods, preservatives, or dyes.
Diet—You must follow a reduced-calorie diet while using an appetite suppressant in order to lose weight. Also, in order to keep the lost weight from returning, changes in diet and exercise must be continued after the weight has been lost.
Pregnancy—If a pregnant woman takes this medicine in high doses or more often than the doctor has directed, it may cause withdrawal symptoms in the newborn baby. Also, medicines similar to sympathomimetic appetite suppressants can cause birth defects in the newborn baby if a pregnant woman takes them in high doses. Before taking this medicine, make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or if you may become pregnant.
Breast-feeding—Diethylpropion and benzphetamine pass into breast milk. It is not known if other sympathomimetic appetite suppressants pass into breast milk. However, use of sympathomimetic appetite suppressants during breast-feeding is not recommended, because it may cause unwanted effects in nursing babies.
Children—Studies on these medicines have been done only in adult patients, and there is no specific information comparing use of sympathomimetic appetite suppressants in children with use in other age groups. The use of these medicines by children younger than 16 years of age is not recommended.
Older adults—Many medicines have not been studied specifically in older people. Therefore, it may not be known whether they work exactly the same way they do in younger adults or if they cause different side effects or problems in older people. There is no specific information comparing use of appetite suppressants in the elderly with use in other age groups.
Other medicines—Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are taking appetite suppressants, it is especially important that your health care professional know if you are taking any of the following:
Amantadine (e.g., Symmetrel) or
Amphetamines or
Caffeine (e.g., NoDoz) or
Chlophedianol (e.g., Ulone) or
Cocaine or
Medicine for asthma or other breathing problems or
Medicine for colds, sinus problems, or hay fever or other allergies (including nose drops or sprays) or
Methylphenidate (e.g., Ritalin) or
Nabilone (e.g., Cesamet) or
Pemoline (e.g., Cylert)—Using these medicines with sympathomimetic appetite suppressants may increase the central nervous system (CNS) stimulant effects, such as irritability, nervousness, trembling or shaking, or trouble in sleeping
Appetite suppressants (diet pills), other or
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (citalopram [e.g., Celexa], fluoxetine [e.g., Prozac], fluvoxamine [e.g., Luvox], paroxetine [e.g., Paxil], sertraline [e.g., Zoloft])—It is not known whether using two different appetite suppressants together or using a sympathomimetic appetite suppressant with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor is safe and effective. There have been some serious unwanted effects on the hearts of people who used two different appetite suppressants together
Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor activity (isocarboxazid [e.g., Marplan], isocarboxazid [e.g., Marplan], phenelzine [e.g., Nardil], procarbazine [e.g., Matulane], selegiline [e.g., Eldepryl], tranylcypromine [e.g., Parnate])—Do not take an appetite suppressant while you are taking or less than 14 days after taking a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor . If you do, you may develop sudden extremely high blood pressure
Tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline [e.g., Elavil], amoxapine [e.g., Asendin], clomipramine [e.g., Anafranil], desipramine [e.g., Pertofrane], doxepin [e.g., Sinequan], imipramine [e.g., Tofranil], nortriptyline [e.g., Aventyl], protriptyline [e.g., Vivactil], trimipramine [e.g., Surmontil])—Using these medicines with sympathomimetic appetite suppressants may cause high blood pressure or irregular heartbeat
Other medical problems—The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of appetite suppressants. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:
Alcohol abuse (or history of) or
Drug abuse or dependence (or history of)—Dependence on appetite suppressants may be more likely to develop
Type 2 diabetes mellitus—The amount of insulin or oral antidiabetic medicine that you need to take may change
Epilepsy—Diethylpropion may increase the risk of having seizures
Family history of mental illness—Mental depression or other mental illness may be more likely to occur
Glaucoma or
Heart or blood vessel disease or
High blood pressure or
Mental illness or
Overactive thyroid—Appetite suppressants may make the condition worse
Kidney disease—Higher blood levels of the appetite suppressant may occur, increasing the chance of serious side effects
Description phentermine
Sympathomimetic appetite suppressants are used in the short-term treatment of obesity. Their appetite-reducing effect tends to decrease after a few weeks. Because of this, these medicines are useful only during the first few weeks of a weight-loss program. The sympathomimetic appetite suppressants can help you to lose weight while you are learning new ways to eat and to exercise. Changes in eating habits and activity level must be developed and continued long-term in order for you to continue losing weight and to keep the lost weight from returning.
These medicines are available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms:
Oral
Benzphetamine
Tablets (U.S.)
Diethylpropion
Tablets (U.S. and Canada)
Extended-release tablets (U.S. and Canada)
Mazindol
Tablets (U.S. and Canada)
Phendimetrazine
Extended-release capsules (U.S.)
Tablets (U.S.)
Phentermine
Capsules (U.S.)
Resin capsules (U.S. and Canada)
Tablets (U.S.)
These medicines are available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms:
Oral
Benzphetamine
Tablets (U.S.)
Diethylpropion
Tablets (U.S. and Canada)
Extended-release tablets (U.S. and Canada)
Mazindol
Tablets (U.S. and Canada)
Phendimetrazine
Extended-release capsules (U.S.)
Tablets (U.S.)
Phentermine
Capsules (U.S.)
Resin capsules (U.S. and Canada)
Tablets (U.S.)
Possible side effects of Phentermine
Possible side effects of Phentermine :
All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:
Bad taste in mouth; changes in sex drive; constipation; diarrhea; difficulty sleeping; dizziness; dry mouth; exaggerated sense of well being; headache; impotence; nervousness; overstimulation; restlessness; sleeplessness; upset stomach.
Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:
Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); bizarre behavior; chest pain; fainting; fast heartbeat; pounding in the chest; shortness of breath; swelling of the legs and feet; tremor.
This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions or need medical advice about side effects, contact your doctor or health care provider. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 (1-800-332-1088) or at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:
Bad taste in mouth; changes in sex drive; constipation; diarrhea; difficulty sleeping; dizziness; dry mouth; exaggerated sense of well being; headache; impotence; nervousness; overstimulation; restlessness; sleeplessness; upset stomach.
Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:
Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); bizarre behavior; chest pain; fainting; fast heartbeat; pounding in the chest; shortness of breath; swelling of the legs and feet; tremor.
This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions or need medical advice about side effects, contact your doctor or health care provider. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 (1-800-332-1088) or at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Important safety information
Important safety information:
Phentermine may cause dizziness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Phentermine with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.
Do NOT take more than the recommended dose or use for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor. Doing so may increase the risk of serious side effects.
Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Phentermine before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.
Before you have any medical or dental treatments, emergency care, or surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using Phentermine .
Avoid drinking alcohol with Phentermine .
Diabetes patients-Phentermine may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels closely. Ask your doctor before you change the dose of your diabetes medicine.
Phentermine is not recommended for use in CHILDREN younger than 12 years old; safety and effectiveness in this age group have not been confirmed.
PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Phentermine while you are pregnant. It is not known if Phentermine is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Phentermine .
After you have taken Phentermine for a few weeks, it will usually not work as well as when you began taking it. This is known at TOLERANCE. Talk with your doctor if Phentermine stops working well. Do not take more medicine than prescribed.
Some people who use Phentermine for a long time may develop a need to continue taking it. People who take high doses are also at risk. This is known as DEPENDENCE or addiction. If you stop taking Phentermine suddenly, you may have WITHDRAWAL symptoms. These may include extreme tiredness, mental depression, trouble sleeping, irritability, or mental, mood, or personality changes.
Phentermine may cause dizziness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Phentermine with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.
Do NOT take more than the recommended dose or use for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor. Doing so may increase the risk of serious side effects.
Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Phentermine before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.
Before you have any medical or dental treatments, emergency care, or surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using Phentermine .
Avoid drinking alcohol with Phentermine .
Diabetes patients-Phentermine may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels closely. Ask your doctor before you change the dose of your diabetes medicine.
Phentermine is not recommended for use in CHILDREN younger than 12 years old; safety and effectiveness in this age group have not been confirmed.
PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Phentermine while you are pregnant. It is not known if Phentermine is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Phentermine .
After you have taken Phentermine for a few weeks, it will usually not work as well as when you began taking it. This is known at TOLERANCE. Talk with your doctor if Phentermine stops working well. Do not take more medicine than prescribed.
Some people who use Phentermine for a long time may develop a need to continue taking it. People who take high doses are also at risk. This is known as DEPENDENCE or addiction. If you stop taking Phentermine suddenly, you may have WITHDRAWAL symptoms. These may include extreme tiredness, mental depression, trouble sleeping, irritability, or mental, mood, or personality changes.
How to use Phentermine
How to use Phentermine :
Use Phentermine as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.
Take Phentermine about 30 minutes before a meal.
Take your last dose of Phentermine at least 4 to 6 hours before bedtime.
If you are taking Phentermine 1 time a day, take your dose in the morning.
If you miss a dose of Phentermine , take it as soon as possible. If it is after 12 pm and you are taking Phentermine 1 time a day, or after 4 pm and you are taking it more than 1 time a day, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Phentermine .
Use Phentermine as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.
Take Phentermine about 30 minutes before a meal.
Take your last dose of Phentermine at least 4 to 6 hours before bedtime.
If you are taking Phentermine 1 time a day, take your dose in the morning.
If you miss a dose of Phentermine , take it as soon as possible. If it is after 12 pm and you are taking Phentermine 1 time a day, or after 4 pm and you are taking it more than 1 time a day, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Phentermine .
Before using Phentermine
Before using Phentermine :
Some medical conditions may interact with Phentermine . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:
if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
if you have a brain or spinal cord disorder, hardening of the arteries, high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol or lipid levels
Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Phentermine . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:
Dexfenfluramine, fenfluramine, furazolidone, or MAOIs (eg, phenelzine) because the risk of serious side effects, such as increasing headache, high blood pressure, slow heart rate, elevated temperature, or possibly fatal lung problems, may be increased
Serotonin specific reuptake inhibitors (eg, fluoxetine) because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Phentermine
Guanadrel or guanethidine because their effectiveness may be decreased by Phentermine
Ask your health care provider if Phentermine may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.
Some medical conditions may interact with Phentermine . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:
if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
if you have a brain or spinal cord disorder, hardening of the arteries, high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol or lipid levels
Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Phentermine . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:
Dexfenfluramine, fenfluramine, furazolidone, or MAOIs (eg, phenelzine) because the risk of serious side effects, such as increasing headache, high blood pressure, slow heart rate, elevated temperature, or possibly fatal lung problems, may be increased
Serotonin specific reuptake inhibitors (eg, fluoxetine) because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Phentermine
Guanadrel or guanethidine because their effectiveness may be decreased by Phentermine
Ask your health care provider if Phentermine may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.
Do NOT use Phentermine if...
Do NOT use Phentermine if:
you are allergic to any ingredient in Phentermine or other sympathomimetics (eg, pseudoephedrine)
you are taking dexfenfluramine, fenfluramine, furazolidone, guanadrel, guanethidine, or have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) (eg, phenelzine) in the last 14 days
you have moderate to severe high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, glaucoma, heart or blood vessel disease, or severe narrowing of the blood vessels
you are in an agitated state, or have a history of substance abuse
Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.
you are allergic to any ingredient in Phentermine or other sympathomimetics (eg, pseudoephedrine)
you are taking dexfenfluramine, fenfluramine, furazolidone, guanadrel, guanethidine, or have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) (eg, phenelzine) in the last 14 days
you have moderate to severe high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, glaucoma, heart or blood vessel disease, or severe narrowing of the blood vessels
you are in an agitated state, or have a history of substance abuse
Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.
Phentermine is used for...
Phentermine
Generic Name: Phentermine Capsules and Tablets (FEN-ter-meen)
Brand Name: Examples include Adipex P and Pro-Fast SA
Phentermine is used for:
Reducing weight in obese patients when used short-term and combined with exercise, diet, and behavioral modification.
Phentermine is an appetite suppressant. It works by helping to release certain chemicals in the brain that control appetite.
Generic Name: Phentermine Capsules and Tablets (FEN-ter-meen)
Brand Name: Examples include Adipex P and Pro-Fast SA
Phentermine is used for:
Reducing weight in obese patients when used short-term and combined with exercise, diet, and behavioral modification.
Phentermine is an appetite suppressant. It works by helping to release certain chemicals in the brain that control appetite.
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