Phentermine is an appetite suppressant which is also used as a diet pill. Though it is quite effective in its function, there are also a few side effects of these diet pills (in case of an overdose). The following article provides information about the dosage and various side effects of these pills.
Phentermine diet pills when used along with a proper exercise regimen is useful in reduction of weight in overly obese people. These pills are prescribed appetite suppressants, approved by United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA). Today it is available under the brand names of Ionamin (Medeva Pharmaceuticals) and Adipex (Gate Pharmaceuticals), although the generic name by which it is identified remains phentermine. This medication stimulates the hypothalamus gland (which controls the autonomic nervous system by regulating the sleep cycles, body temperatures, and appetite) which affects the appetite of the person, thereby leading to weight loss. This medication is available in the form of tablets, capsules, and resin capsules. However, every medication has its own set of risks and complications.
Dosage
The dosage prescribed to patients vary depending on the person’s medical history. Usually, it is recommended on an empty stomach, preferably before breakfast and once a day only. Crushing, chewing, or breaking the pill is strictly advised against. For people who are consuming two pills a day, should take the last dosage 4-6 hours before going to bed. However, dosage also depends on the age of the person.
People who are below 60 years of age, are prescribed an oral dosage of 15-37.5 mg once a day, 1-2 hours prior to breakfast (if pills are in the form of tablets). If these pills are in form of resin-coated capsules, the dosage is 15-30 mg once a day before breakfast. For people who are above 60 years of age, the doctor might reduce the dosage gradually, keeping in mind the other health problems that come with age. Phentermine diet pills are NOT to be consumed by infants or children (under 16 years of age), as there are many side effects associated with these pills.
Doctors caution patients against consuming these diet pills more often than prescribed for. In case, a dose has been missed out, do NOT take a double dose, but carry on with the scheduled dosage as prescribed. In case, a person takes an overdose, then immediate medical attention should be sought. Also, an important thing to remember is, NEVER share these prescription drugs with anyone. As it is a prescription drug, only the doctor is allowed to prescribe these medications.
Side Effects
Phentermine diet pills are not substitutes for diet or exercise. People under this medication must follow a low calorie diet with a strict physical regime. However, people tend to miss over this important point and experience severe side effects. The commonly experienced side effects are:
- Chest pain
- Troubled breathing
- Frequent spells of fainting
- Swelling in feet and lower legs
- Depression and irritability
- Drowsiness and decreased ability to exercise
- Prolonged headaches
- High blood pressure
- Blurred vision (rare symptom)
- Dry mouth with an unpleasant taste
- Psychosis (rare symptom)
- Change in heartbeat
- Diarrhea (rare symptom)
- Change in sexual desire and personality traits
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sleeplessness
Besides these symptoms, it has been observed that these pills can alter the sleep cycles of a person (as this medication directly affects the hypothalamus gland of the body). Apart from this, it is advised to limit the consumption of alcohol while taking this medication. Alcohol only adds to the aforementioned side effects, by increasing dizziness. Diabetics who are affected by other ailments like hyperthyroidism and kidney related diseases, are supposed to take a second opinion from doctors before going for weight loss treatment with this medication. Phentermine diet pills alter blood sugar levels, and being an appetite suppressants it may alter the functions of the thyroid gland (for people affected by hyperthyroidism). People who have undergone surgeries or dental treatments are not advised to take this medicine, as these medications may cause serious side effects after treatment.
Phentermine Diet Pill Reviews
These diet pills help obese people in suppressing untimely hunger, thereby helping in weight loss. Also, these diet pills are potential metabolism boosters that help people by providing them with more energy than before. However, many people get addicted to these pill and develop various side effects. It is important to note that, however effective these pills may be, their effect will be observed only if the person is having a balanced diet with requisite physical exercises and work outs.
Also, make sure that these appetite suppressants remain out of reach of infants and children. Store the pills in a cool dry place, away from heat, moisture, or direct sunlight (as heat and moisture can affect the properties of the medicine). If the pills have reached the expiry date, then throw it away without any second thoughts. In case, the person feels the need to stop taking these pills, he should first consult his doctor first. Abrupt discontinuation may lead to various withdrawal symptoms, as the body cannot adjust its daily cycle with immediate effect. Hence, the dosage may be reduced, allowing the body to shed off the mental and physical dependence on the medication.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.