What Is Phentermine Hydrochloride?

If a physician determines that diet and exercise simply aren't enough to counter obesity, it's possible that she may prescribe a medication containing phentermine hydrochloride to promote weight loss. There are many aspects of phentermine hydrochloride that should be carefully examined before taking this medication. It is crucial to understand how the drug promotes weight loss, what it consists of and its effects on the brain and body.

Identification

• According to Phentermine.com, there are three types of pills that contain phentermine hydrochloride: tablets, capsules and resin capsules. These are marketed by various pharmaceutical companies, and pills containing phentermine hydrochloride include Adipex-P and Ionamin. Generic versions are also available.

Features

• Phentermine hydrochloride belongs to the sympathomimetic family of appetite suppressants. The chemical structure of phentermine hydrochloride is similar to that of amphetamines, which are powerful stimulants usually used to treat attention deficit disorder, or ADD.

  In the brain, phentermine hydrochloride affects certain neurotransmitters (brain chemicals), and also stimulates the hypothalamus gland. This method of action is thought to be responsible for appetite suppression and increased energy.

Function

• The function of phentermine hydrochloride is to initiate weight loss and help an obese person change unhealthy eating patterns.

  Taken either once daily in the morning (with extended-release formulations), or three times daily---30 minutes before each meal----phentermine hydrochloride helps control hunger before and between meals.

  With the advice and supervision of a physician (and preferably, also a nutritionist), an obese person taking phentermine hydrochloride can learn to eat less, eat healthier, and exercise, while losing weight due to the medication's chemical actions.

Considerations

• Phentermine hydrochloride is a short-term tool to start weight loss and help promote healthier eating patterns. However, it is also a stimulant with the potential for abuse, as it can be habit-forming. For this reason, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration lists phentermine hydrochloride as a Schedule IV controlled substance and it is illegal to possess the drug without a prescription.

  It is also very important to follow a doctor's instructions while taking phentermine hydrochloride, state the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and to follow the exercise program that is customarily given when the medication is prescribed. Taking more medication than prescribed can lead to dependence on the drug.

Warnings

• There are many potential side effects that can occur when taking phentermine hydrochloride. Minor side effects include constipation, dry mouth, vomiting and diarrhea.

  Serious side effects can happen as well, and the NIH advises that any of the following side effects should be immediately reported to a doctor: heart palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, increased blood pressure and tremors.

  If an overdose is suspected, contact emergency-medical personnel immediately.