Phentermine use involves the prescription of a stimulant that was approved by the FDA in 1959 to be used as an appetite suppressant. Phentermine has been produced under many recognizable brand names, such as Fastin, Ionamin, and Adipex-P. While Fastin is no longer available on the market (though it is the name of a completely different supplement), while Ionamin is not available in the US, and Adipex is still in strong production, as is phentermine in its generic state.
The most noticeable traits of drugs often tend to be the undeniable benefits. The phentermine substance has proven without a doubt that it can offer a true benefit to those who struggle from obesity. When phentermine is ingested, it stimulates the hypothalamus into producing a chemical called norepinephrine. This chemical causes the body to physically respond in a manner similar to that of an adrenaline rush or anxiety. This type of response often supersedes the brain’s acknowledgment of hunger and therefore actively suppresses the urge to eat. This enables users to lose weight without having to fend off attacks of hunger or snacking. As the body calls for more energy to function in this heightened state of stimulation, the body is also more likely to metabolize, or “burn”, fat faster.
Phentermine is intended strictly to be used on a short-term basis. In most cases, this means up to twelve weeks. Short-term Phentermine use is extremely effective as a weight loss aid, however it is not intended to be used as a sole method of treatment for obesity. A positive change in diet as well as an adequate exercise routine should be incorporated into the treatment and then maintained even after the use of phentermine is discontinued.
Although short-term phentermine use is considered to be safe for the general public, there have been very few clinical studies performed on it. In the mid to 1990’s, a combination drug became popular which included phentermine and fenfluramine. Many people recognize this drug by its nickname, “Fen-Phen”. Fen-Phen quickly became a giant in the pharmaceutical weight loss industry until cases of pulmonary hypertension began cropping up in users of this drug. Fen-Phen was taken off of the market, however phentermine was allowed to remain on its own.
The drawbacks to taking this drug are that people with certain conditions can develop serious medical issues if they take phentermine. People who suffer from severe high blood pressure, overactive thyroid disorder, heart disease, or glaucoma should not take this medication. Other conditions, such as diabetes, a mild or moderate case of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and pregnancy can produce issues in the way this drug works; therefore anyone with these conditions should only use phentermine under the close scrutiny of their doctor.
General side effects can occur with short-term phentermine use, especially if it is taken for several consecutive weeks. Some of the side effects are quite similar to those of a generalized anxiety disorder, such as insomnia, irritability, chronic bouts of confusion, and hypertension. Physical symptoms may include heartburn or indigestion, nausea, upset stomach, irregular bowel movements, vomiting, headaches, rashes on the skin, and fatigue. Although the previously mentioned side effects are quite common among users, there have been reports of severe symptoms such as seizures, hallucinations, manic-depressive tendencies, uncontrollable nausea or diarrhea, and variations in blood pressure.
While phentermine has not been deemed unsafe for use by the general public, it isn’t without its disadvantages. There is, without a doubt, a place in the medical world for phentermine, but those considering the use of this drug should discuss all possible drawbacks with their doctor to determine whether phentermine is a good candidate for their health and lifestyle.
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