Phentermine

People suffering from obesity can be treated with several treatment modalities. They should be prescribed with an adequate low-calorie diet, engage in a regular and controlled physical activity and only if these treatments do not provide with desirable results a person may opt for other available approaches. In extreme cases in morbidly obese people one option if surgery. Even still, they first opt for a diet pill, a wonder of the modern world. There are many diet pills available on the market and their mechanism of activity is different. Some of them are approved and can be prescribed. But, one should be careful and prior to opting for diet pills he/she should consult a doctor who will determine whether an individual may take these medications and the precise dose of the drug.

What is Phentermine?

A phentermine is a recommended appetite suppressant (a diet pill). The drug effectively rouses the nervous system which subsequently boosts the heart rate and reduces one's carving. The person who is prescribed with phentermine must also have well-balanced and low-calorie diet and stay physically active. The effects of the medication are achieved by functional changes in the brain, or to be more precise, by modulating neurotransmitters. The drug stimulates the nerve bundles in the brain to release catecholamines adrenalin and noradrenalin (types of neurotransmitters). These neurotransmitters send forward the message to the body that put brakes on the hunger signals and the final result is a loss or reduction of appetite. It seems that increased amount of these neurotransmitters may put the halt on another chemical called neuropeptide Y. Neuropeptide Y is responsible for initial eating, decreasing energy spending as well as the useless spending of fats.

Usage of Phentermine

There are certain instructions regarding the usage of phentermine. The patient must follow the doctor's orders and take only the prescribed dose of the drug. Furthermore, phentermine is supposed to be taken approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour before breakfast. Mid-morning is the most suitable part of the day for taking this medication. The pill is swallowed whole. The last dose is taken at least 4-6 hours before bedtime. If one has missed a dose he/she must take it as soon as possible and if it occurs after 4 PM the patient is allowed to skip the missed dose and continue with regular dosing schedule the next day.

Side Effects of Phentermine

It is essential not to take the medication more often than it is prescribed. This rule must be followed since phentermine represents a very fast habit forming drug. This is the reason patients who are taking the drug for a longer period of time must not discontinue the drug abruptly. The drug is commonly prescribed for the period of 8-12 weeks and within this period it generally does not lead to addiction. Moderate side effects include depression, nervousness, irritability, blurred vision, dryness of the mouth, diarrhea, headache and changes in sexual behavior. Phentermine may also cause sleepiness. Serious side effects include chest pain, fainting, swelling of lower parts of the legs, breathing difficulties etc.