CLASS and MECHANISM of Action
Generic "Phentermine" hydrochloride 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. Tachyphylaxis and tolerance have been demonstrated with all drugs of this class in which these phenomena have been looked for.
Active Ingredients: Phentermine Hydrochloride
Inactive Ingredients: Corn Starch, Lactose (Anhydrous), Magnesium Stearate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Pregelatinized Starch, Sucrose, and FD&C Blue #1.
What is Generic "Phentermine" PRESCRIBED For?
Generic "Phentermine" is usually used as a short- term drug along with diet and behavior modification to treat obesity. Recently, it has been combined with diet and fenfluramine (Pondimin) and used over longer terms in selected obesity patients (P & P diets) with some favorable long-term modest weight loss.
How Should I Take Generic "Phentermine"?
Take Generic "Phentermine" exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. Take each dose with a full glass of water.
Generic "Phentermine" is usually taken once or twice a day before a meal on an empty stomach. Do not take Generic "Phentermine" in the evening because it may cause insomnia. Do not crush, chew or open any "once-daily" Generic "Phentermine" tablets or capsules. Swallow them whole. Never take more of this medication than is prescribed for you. Too much Generic "Phentermine" could be very dangerous to your health.
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
What are the CONTRAINDICATIONS for taking Generic "Phentermine"?
You cannot take phentermine if you:
- have heart disease or high blood pressure;
- have arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries);
- have glaucoma;
- have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), or phenelzine (Nardil) in the last 14 days;
- have a history of drug or alcohol abuse.
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
- problems with your thyroid,
- an anxiety disorder,
- epilepsy or another seizure disorder, or
- diabetes.
What Happens if I MISS A DOSE?
If you miss a dose of Generic "Phentermine", do not double the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose of Generic "Phentermine" and resume your usual dosing schedule.
What happens if I OVERDOSE?
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. An overdose of Generic "Phentermine" can be fatal. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical treatment immediately.
What are the possible SIDE EFFECTS of Generic "Phentermine"?
Generally, Generic "Phentermine" appears to be relatively well tolerated. It can produce side effects consistent with its catecholamine-releasing properties.
Tell your doctor if you experience anxiety, chest pain, breathing difficulties, constipation, diarrhea, difficulty urinating, dizziness, headache, mood changes, nervousness, restlessness or tremor, pounding heart, swelling, impotence or changes in your sex drive.
What other drugs can INTERACT with Generic "Phentermine"?
Generic "Phentermine" should not be taken by patients with glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, or a history of drug abuse or psychotic illnesses. Generic "Phentermine" is not recommended in patients with high blood pressure that is not well controlled. Patients on Generic "Phentermine" should have their blood pressure closely followed. Insulin requirements may change in patients on Generic "Phentermine" ; alcohol can cause a drug interaction. Abrupt stoppage of the drug can cause withdrawal with fatigue and depression. Generic "Phentermine" is potentially addicting. Generic "Phentermine" is not recommended for patients with symptomatic heart disease including rhythm problems.
Additional Information
As Generic "Phentermine" is similar chemically to amphetamines, taking Phentermine may cause a positive result in urine screening tests for amphetamines.
Do NOT share your Generic "Phentermine" prescription with others.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist for further information on Generic "Phentermine".