Phentermine - a prescription medication for weight loss
Have you been struggling with weight? Have you tried just about every diet known to man? Atkin's, keto, paleo, intermittent fasting, or a zillion others? Or, have you exercised your tail off only to look at the scale and not see the needle move? Or, perhaps you just despise exercise. Well, at some point you've probably heard about or sought out a prescription for a weight loss pill. But, you may have heard stories about how bad weight loss pills are for you. Let's try to demystify one of the most commonly prescribed weight loss medications, phentermine.
Phentermine is classified as an amphetamine stimulant medication and therefore it is "controlled" and schedule IV. Not only does it require a prescription, but the prescriber and pharmacy have to go through extra hoops to ensure that it is being dispensed safely and not at risk of being diverted or used inappropriately. Brand names of phentermine include Adipex-P, and Lomaira.
In the past, it was combined with fenfluramine for weight loss, but eventually this combination "fen-Phen" was pulled from the market due to some potential risks to the heart. However, phentermine by itself is generally deemed safe and ok to use unless you have severely uncontrolled blood pressure or existing coronary artery disease. So phentermine by itself has over 50 yrs of use without serious issues. That's not to say that it doesn't have the potential for side effects. The most common side effects include dry mouth, constipation, insomnia, and feeling of being "amped up" or stimulated --no too unlike a few cups of coffee. Usually if one experiences these symptoms, it's best to cut the dose down or quit the medication entirely.
Studies have shown that on average, one can lose 5-10% from baseline weight with phentermine. To achieve greater and more sustained weight loss, medical therapy with phentermine should be combined with lifestyle changes including diet and exercise. Also, the addition of topiramate and/or metformin may result in greater weight loss from baseline. Discontinuing phentermine may result in weight gain, back to baseline.
At Preferred Family Medicine's Reno Weight Loss clinic, our clients consult with our physician prior to initiating phentermine and/or other medications for weight loss. If deemed a candidate for weight loss medication, prescriptions will be written and medication may be picked up at the adjacent pharmacy on a weekly basis. Accountability and close monitoring are crucial to achieving one's weight loss goal.
If you would like to know more about phentermine and other medications for weight loss in the Reno, Tahoe, Sparks, Carson City area please contact us at 775-204-0150.