Phentermine


Uses


What is Phentermine for?

Phentermine is an anorectic agent (an agent that suppresses appetite). It is used in the management of obesity as a short-term adjunct in a comprehensive regimen of weight reduction, which includes diet and exercise.

How should I take or use Phentermine?

Phentermine comes in capsule form, to be taken by mouth.

It should be taken in the morning, before breakfast or 1 to 2 hours after breakfast. Avoid taking late in the evening as it may cause insomnia (difficulty sleeping at night).

Take this medication as instructed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose to increase the effect as it may cause other side effects.

What should I do if I forget to take or use Phentermine?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.


Precaution


What precautions should I take when taking or using Phentermine?

Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medications, such as medications affecting the heart, high blood pressure medications or antidiabetic medications.


Side Effects


What are some common side effects of Phentermine?

Common side effects include:

  • Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea or constipation
  • Dry mouth and unpleasant taste
  • Palpitations and increased blood pressure
  • Headache, restlessness or tremor

Inform your doctor if the side effects above become severe and bothersome.

Stop the medication and inform your doctor immediately if you experience any allergic reactions (e.g. rash, swelling of the eyes or lips, difficulty breathing).


Handling


How should I store Phentermine?

  • Keep away from children
  • Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight
  • Store at room temperature

For more information


What else should I know about Phentermine?

Phentermine should be used with caution in those with mild to moderate hypertension (high blood pressure). In the first days of treatment, ensure that there is no loss of control or fluctuations in blood pressure.

Phentermine should not be used if you are intending to become pregnant, during pregnancy or breastfeeding – inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant while on phentermine.

Inform your doctor if you have any medical conditions (e.g. heart condition, high blood pressure, history of seizures) or are taking other medications.

Inform doctor if taking psychotropic drugs

Disclaimers

Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System, and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity, and Watsons), and the Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last Updated on October 2017



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