Phentermine Hydrochloride
This medication is a Schedule IV drug
Brand Name: Adipex-P, Ionamin
Generic Available
Common Dosage Forms:
Tablets (Adipex-P): Each tablet contains 37.5 mg phentermine HCl equivalent to 30 mg phentermine base
Capsules (Adipex-P): Each tablet contains 37.5 mg phentermine HCl equivalent to 30 mg phentermine base
Capsules (formerly Ionamin): 15 mg, 30 mg
FDA Indications/Dosages:
As a short-term adjunct in a regimen of weight reduction based on exercise, behavioral modification, and caloric restriction in the management of exogenous obesity for patients with an initial body mass index ≥30 kg/m2, or ≥27 kg/m2 in the presence of other risk factors: The usual adult dose is one tablet/capsule taken before breakfast or 1-2 hours after breakfast. Some patients may show improvement with ½ tablet daily or by taking ½ tablet in the morning and ½ tablet in the early afternoon.
Monitor: Weight
Pharmacology/Pharmacokinetics: Phentermine is a sympathomimetic amine with pharmacologic activity similar to the prototype drugs of this class used in obesity, the amphetamines. Actions include central nervous system stimulation and elevation of blood pressure. Although drugs of this class are commonly called ‘anorectics,’ it has not been established that appetite suppression is their primary mode of action. Other central nervous actions, or metabolic effects, may be involved, for example.
Drug Interactions: Use with a MONOAMINE OXIDASE INHIBITOR may precipitate a hypertensive crisis (see contraindications). May decrease the hypotensive effect of guanethidine. Use with FENFLURAMINE or DEXFENFLURAMINE may cause primary pulmonary hypertension.
Contraindications/Precautions: Contraindicated in patients with advanced arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, moderate to severe hypertension, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, agitated states, a history of drug abuse, or in patients hypersensitive to sympathomimetic amines. Do not use with or within 14 days of the administration of a monoamine oxidase inhibitor. Do not use with other drugs used for weight loss. Use with caution in patients with mild hypertension. Pregnancy Category C.
Adverse Effects: Rare cases of primary pulmonary hypertension (dyspnea, angina pectoris, syncope, lower extremity edema) have been reported. May cause hypertension, tachycardia, restlessness, dizziness, insomnia, euphoria, dysphoria, tremor, headache, impotence, dryness of mouth, diarrhea, constipation, taste disturbances, urticaria.
Patient Consultation:
Best if taken in the day to avoid insomnia.
May cause drowsiness. Use caution while operating machinery or driving a motor vehicle.
WARNING: This medication may be habit-forming.
Take exactly as prescribed. Do not increase dosages.
Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and children.
Contact a physician if the above side effects are severe or persistent.
If a dose is missed, skip it and return to normal dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
