Phentermine 101: A Complete Guide to This Popular Weight Loss Medication

Phentermine is one of the most widely prescribed weight loss medication available. Phentermine works by supporting the signals in your brain to help regain control over your appetite and energy levels. 

How phentermine works

Phentermine belongs to a class of medication called anorectics. It works by stimulating the release of chemical messengers- Norepinephrine and Dopamine- that act on your hypothalamus (which is the hunger center of your brain)

Phentermine suppress the appetite, by “muting” the hunger signals, making it easier to stick to a specific caloric meal pain without feeling deprived. 

Phentermine is a mild stimulant, meaning it can cause an increase in your resting heart rate and your blood pressure. By slightly increasing your resting heart rate and energy, it can help your body burn more fuel throughout the day. 

Some patients report a boost in motivation and physical energy, making it easier to  start and maintain a new exercise routine. 

At our clinic we require a comprehensive laboratory review and health history from our patients. We also require the patient to return to our clinic after 2 weeks for a follow-up visit to check on the patients’ blood pressure and heart rate. We start at a lower dose of phentermine, emphasizing that lower doses of medication are always better and safer. Depending on the patients’ vital signs and symptoms we can increase the dose, but that is up to the provider and the patient. We highly encourage a lifestyle change. We are here to support you and offer any guidance we can to make you successful in your journey!

Frequently asked questions

Is phentermine a long term medication? 

Phentermine is approved by the FDA for short term use (12 weeks at a time). We recommend a 6 week break after the 12 week use. This medication is designed to be a “bridge” to help you establish healthy habits. Once you reach a certain milestone, we will re-evaluate the need to continue. 

How is phentermine taken? 

Phentermine is a daily oral tablet. We usually recommend to take the medication in the morning to help with appetite control and energy throughout the day. 

What are common side effects of phentermine? 

Because phentermine is a stimulant, some patients can experience dry mouth (xerostomia), increase in heart rate and blood pressure, constipation, and trouble sleeping. These side effects are usually mild. If you experience any heart palpitations or irregular heartbeats, we do discontinue the medication and offer another program to our patients. 

Can I take phentermine with high blood pressure or atrial fibrillation or high heart rates? 

Because of the stimulant effects in phentermine, we will have to monitor your blood pressure carefully. If your blood pressure is well controlled, we will continue to monitor you closely. If your blood pressure is not well controlled, we will not be able to offer this program. We also will not be able to offer this to patient with suffer from tachycardia or atrial fibrillation due to the stimulant effects. 

Who is an ideal candidate for phentermine?

Patients with a BMI of 27 or greater and individuals who are looking for affordable, oral alternatives to injections.