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Is Phentermine Addictive?

Phentermine, an appetite suppressant prescribed to those with body mass of 30 or more, is recommended for short-term use only. The body develops a tolerance for the drug over time, so more must be taken to achieve the same effect, which is a characteristic of an addictive substance (see Reference 1). Its safety in long-term use has not been determined.

  1. History

    • The Federal Drug Administration in 1959 approved Phentermine, an appetite suppressant for weight loss. Phentermine is the generic name for the drug, also marketed as Adipex, Ionomin and Fastin. Phentermine can only be purchased with a doctor's prescription.

      Do not confuse Phentermine with Fen-phen, a combination of Fenfluramine (Pondomin) and Phentermine, which was popular from 1994 to 1997 and removed from the market due to possible damage to heart valves.

    Significance

    • Phentermine is recommended in combination with exercise and dieting for those at risk of heart disease due to obesity. Phentermine affects the neurotransmitters, changing chemicals inside the brain, to reduce the impulse to eat. A reduced appetite makes dieting easier.

      Studies have shown that obese patients taking Phentermine lost an average of 8 pounds more than a group taking a placebo over an average period of 13 weeks.

    Benefits and Dosage

    • Phentermine starts working right away. The average amount of weight reduction is between 8 and 12 pounds per month. One tablet a day should be taken in the morning two hours after breakfast on an empty stomach. Phentermine tablets are available in dosages from 8 mg. to 37.5 mg. Test subjects took 15-30 mg a day.

    Adverse Effects

    • Because Phentermine is a stimulant, it may cause sleep problems, nervousness, irritability, nausea, headache and dry mouth. Adverse effects lessen with longer use (see Reference 3).

    Warnings

    • Like an amphetamine, Phentermine raises blood pressure and heart rate. It should not be taken with any other weight-loss medications or stimulants (see Reference 3). Anyone with hypothyroidism or those using thyroid replacement should not take the drug.

      Pregnant and nursing mothers should not take Phentermine. Withdrawal could cause tremors, fatigue and depression.

      With prolonged use, Phentermine could be addictive (see Resource 1).

      Phentermine is not sold in Europe due to possible links with lung and heart problems.

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