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Risks of Phentermine

Phentermine is one of the best-known prescription drugs used for the treatment of obesity in both men and women. It has been in use since 1959 and has Food and Drug Administration approval. Still, despite the drug's track record for success, there are potential risks to taking it.

  1. History

    • Phentermine was the first drug to be approved by the FDA for treating obesity. In the past 50 years, it has built a positive track record in helping people with obesity--classified as a person that has a body mass index of 30 or more --lose weight. It is considered a drug that is best used for short periods of time and with a sensible weight loss plan that includes exercise.

    Dose and Use

    • The average dose for phentermine is 30 mg per day. According to vitaminsdiary.com, phentermine mainly acts as an appetite suppressant, producing a feeling of satiety that is intended to help you eat less. Since the drug is both an appetite suppressant and a stimulant, it can also help boost metabolism. Also, for that reason, it should only be used by people classified as obese, and not those who are seeking cosmetic weight loss.

    Mild Side Effects

    • There are several minor side effects to taking phentermine, according to healthyweightforum.com. Those side effects can include blurred vision, dry mouth, inability to sleep, upset stomach, constipation, irritability, gastrointestinal distress, and changes in libido. Most of these side effects go away as the patient gets used to taking the drug. If the patient takes alcohol with the drug, they should know that it could create dizziness.

    Side Effects Of Concern

    • These side effects may not lead to serious problems, but they are certainly more serious than the mild side effects reported with the drug. Those side effects can include chest pains, a faster heartbeat, difficulty urinating, difficulty breathing or swelling on various parts of the body. Naturally, these side effects are different for each patient, and you should seek medical attention if the symptoms are persistent.

    Severe Side Effects

    • The most serious side effect from phentermine is primary pulmonary hypertension, or PPH. This side effect has been reported in patients that combined phentermine with another popular weight loss drug, fenfluramine (or phen-fen), according to healthyweightforum.com. The drug combination is also believed to contribute to cardiac valvular disease. While phentermine alone hasn't been linked to PPH, doctors can't rule out the possibility.

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