Phentermine is a prescription medication that is typically prescribed on a short-term basis for weight loss. Some name brands of the medication are no longer on the market. The one that is still currently available for prescription is Adipex-P. Generic versions of Phentermine are also available with a prescription and the drug is currently produced by a number of different manufacturers for use in generic prescriptions. Phentermine works to suppress the appetite and increase the metabolism, making it easier to lose weight.
The medication is typically taken in tablet and/or capsule form by mouth one time each day. There are some prescriptions that require you to take the drug twice each day, at morning and again at night. It is important to keep in mind that doctors recommend following an appropriate diet and exercise program along with taking this medication to see optimal weight loss results. It is also recommended that you never take more than the prescribed dosage of Phentermine as it can cause chemical dependency issues or addiction. In order for the medication to work properly, it must be taken as per the prescription requirements.
As with any prescription and many non-prescription drugs, there are a number of noted Phentermine side effects. Not everyone who takes the medication will develop adverse side effects or problems. In most cases of trouble related to the medication, too much Phentermine is taken. More common side effects have been noted through clinical trials with the medication. The most commonly noted Phentermine side effects include restlessness, dizziness, hyperactivity, unusual feelings of euphoria, dry mouth, dysphoria or feelings of unpleasantness, a bad taste in the mouth, constipation and/or diarrhea and some noted sexual problems.
There are also more serious side effects that while very uncommon, should be reported to your doctor immediately should you experience them. These include the signs and symptoms of a life-threatening condition called primary pulmonary hypertension. The signs of primary pulmonary hypertension include sudden weakness or fatigue, chest pains, ankle swelling, fainting or periods of dizziness and a blue tinge to the skin or the lips. Also, if you notice a more aggressive behavior than normal including any strange behavior, sudden and unprovoked agitation, hallucinations, sudden high blood pressure, tachycardia or an increase in the heart rate, heart palpitations and/or the desire to take more Phentermine than you are prescribed or a sudden desire for a higher dose, you should report these symptoms immediately to your doctor as this can be a very serious and life-threatening condition.
You should also note that there are possibilities of developing or having an allergic reaction to Phentermine. The signs of an allergic reaction to medication include hives, rash, itching, wheezing, swelling and sudden difficulty in swallowing or breathing. These can also be life-threatening side effects and should be reported to a medical emergency team immediately.
Note that not everyone who takes Phentermine ever experiences any adverse side effects. It is quite possible to take the medication and never notice anything out of the ordinary. If however you do notice any sign or symptom that is considered to be abnormal, you should report these findings to your doctor immediately particularly those that signal life-threatening conditions. It may be difficult to determine whether the medication is actually causing the more common side effects or if they are symptoms of another medication or simply a normal reaction to dieting. Be certain to discuss the risks of side effects and the benefits of taking Phentermine before you begin a prescription and always tell your doctor if and when you notice any adverse feelings or reactions to any new medications.
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