CLASS and MECHANISM of Action
Generic "Phentermine" is an amphetamine that stimulates neurons to release or maintain high levels of a particular group of neurotransmitters known as catecholamines; these include dopamine and norepinephrine. High levels of these catecholamines tend to suppress hunger signals and appetite. Generic "Phentermine" may also indirectly affect leptin levels in the brain. It is theorized that Generic "Phentermine" can raise levels of leptin which signal satiety.
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 used as a short-term supplement to diet and exercise in the treatment of obesity. Generic "Phentermine" may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
How Should I Take Generic "Phentermine"?
Take this medication by mouth, usually once a day 1 hour before breakfast or 1-2 hours after breakfast or as directed by your doctor. The tablet form may be taken at a lower dose (8 milligrams) up to 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals. Taking this medication late in the day may cause trouble sleeping (insomnia). Swallow this medication whole. Do not crush, chew, or break the capsules/tablets.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Your doctor will adjust the dose to find the best dose for you. Use this medication regularly and exactly as prescribed in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.
Store Generic "Phentermine" at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What are the CONTRAINDICATIONS for taking Generic "Phentermine"?
Tell your doctor your complete medical history especially if you have high blood pressure, an over-active thyroid, glaucoma, diabetes or emotional problems. Consult with your doctor if you think you are pregnant or before breast-feeding. Alcohol can increase unwanted side effects of dizziness. Limit alcohol use. This drug is not recommended for use in children. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for further information.
What Happens if I MISS A DOSE?
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 continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
What happens if I OVERDOSE?
Symptoms of Generic "Phentermine" overdose may include: Abdominal cramps aggressiveness confusion diarrhea exaggerated reflexes hallucinations high or low blood pressure irregular heartbeat nausea panic states rapid breathing restlessness tremors vomiting.
If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical treatment immediately.
What are the possible SIDE EFFECTS of Generic "Phentermine"?
During the first few days you may have dry mouth or an unpleasant taste in your mouth, sleeplessness, irritability, stomach upset or constipation. This is just your body adjusting to the Generic "Phentermine". Tell your doctor if these effects persist or become bothersome.
- A few people have mood swings
- Agitation
- Depression
- Drowsiness
- Elevated blood pressure
- Increased blood pressure
- Irritability
- Nervousness
- Rapid or irregular heart beats.
- Tiredness
What other drugs can INTERACT with Generic "Phentermine"?
You cannot take Generic "Phentermine" if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), or phenelzine (Nardil) in the last 14 days.
Changes in insulin and other diabetes drug therapies may be necessary during treatment with Generic "Phentermine".
Generic "Phentermine" may reduce the effects of guanethidine (Ismelin). This could lead to an increase in blood pressure. Tell your doctor if you are taking guanethidine.
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking a tricyclic antidepressant such as amitriptyline (Elavil), amoxapine (Asendin), doxepin (Sinequan), nortriptyline (Pamelor), imipramine (Tofranil), clomipramine (Anafranil), protriptyline (Vivactil), or desipramine (Norpramin). These drugs may decrease the effects of phentermine.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Generic "Phentermine". Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
Additional Information
Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed, since they may have a problem that is not effectively treated with this medicine, or they may have a condition that is complicated by this medicine. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
