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Phentermine (Adipex)

July 2nd, 2008

Back in 1959, the Food and Drug Administration approved a weight loss drug known as Phentermine. Since then, this generic drug has been known as Adipex and countless other names. There are virtually no clinical studies that have been done on this drug because it was approved almost 50 years ago, back before anyone knew the potentially harmful effects or the need for tests on medications. The drug itself is only available with a prescription, but it has been combined with other medicines and sold over the counter, a few which were later taken off the market by the request of the FDA.



Phentermine is an appetite suppressing drug that works with the brain to control hunger and eating. It does so by sending the body into a “fight or flight response,” which means that you body starts to sense danger and forgets about being hungry. Appetite is then decreased because hunger signals do not reach the correct part of the brain. Along with “forgetting” hunger, this medicine typically causes increased heart rate and blood pressure. It is only recommended for short-term (approximately 12 weeks) use as a supplement to dieting and exercise. This is due to the fact that the body may begin to tolerate the drug, and its purpose will no longer be effective.

As with any medication, there are some patients who should not take Phentermine. Anyone who is allergic to any ingredient in the drug should definitely not take it. Also, patients who are currently taking other medicines should contact their doctor before taking this drug. People with high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, glaucoma, or heart disease, as well as women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant in the near future should stay away from Phentermine. Anyone with a history of substance abuse would also not be advised to take this drug, as it could lead to addiction.

Phentermine works with the brain to put it in a state of danger, which in turn gets rid of the hunger signals the stomach tries to send. In doing so, it may also cause increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure, which are two effects of panic in the body. It is also recommended that the drug be taking in the morning, due to the risk of insomnia in the patient. Other common side effects of Phentermine include irritability, nervousness, dry mouth, blurred vision, confusion, nausea, stomach pain, and fatigue. Less common effects that can occur include tremors, convulsions, irregular heartbeat, fever, hallucinations, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. Addiction to this drug is possible, and could cause drowsiness, fatigue, and depression if prolonged use occurs.

The lack of studies done on this drug could prove to be harmful, but people have taken Phentermine and had nothing more than the occasional side effects. There are many risks of taking this drug, as it works with your brain. This could lead to improper body functioning if the drug not used as recommended or is abused. Hopefully, more studies will be conducted on this drug that will prove its effects and safety of use in the body.

Entry Filed under: Prescription Diet Pills