FAQs Phentermine

General Information

**Phentermine** is a prescription drug applied for **weight loss** by reducing appetite and enhancing metabolism.

Phentermine is marketed under brand names such as **Adipex-P®, Lomaira®, and Suprenza®.**

Yes, **Phentermine** is FDA-approved for **short-term obesity treatment.**

It is a **sympathomimetic amine anorectic** and a **Schedule IV controlled substance.**

Phentermine is **chemically akin to amphetamines**, but with **less potential for abuse**.
Mechanism of Action

It does so by **releasing norepinephrine**, which **decreases hunger** and **boosts energy expenditure**.

Yes, it **boosts the metabolism ever so slightly** by activating the central nervous system.

No, it **reduces calorie intake**, which results in **fat loss** over a period of time.

Phentermine **begins to work within hours** of the initial dose.

It has a **half-life of approximately 20 hours**, which is to say it may be present in the body for **up to 3-4 days**.
Dosage and Administration

The most effective dose in our experience is 37.5 mg** tablets or capsules. Leanefy only deals in full package of 37.5 mg.

It is usually taken **once a day**, best **before breakfast or 1-2 hours afterward.**

Yes, some smaller doses such as **Lomaira® (8 mg)** are available **three times a day.**

Skip the missed dose if it is **late in the day** to prevent **insomnia.** Do not **double the dose.**

It is usually prescribed for **up to 12 weeks** because of **tolerance and safety issues.** Only after revaluation your physician can prescribe for you extended but limited use .

Most individuals lose **5-10% of their body weight** in **12 weeks**.
Efficacy and Expected Results

Some individuals see **weight loss during the first week** of taking it.

It is **less effective** without **lifestyle adjustments** such as a balanced diet and exercise.

No, **outcomes are different**, and some individuals might not be responsive to the drug.

Yes, but it **encourages total fat loss**, not only belly fat.
Side Effects and Risks

- Insomnia
- Dry mouth
- Increased heart rate
- Nervousness
- Constipation

It **can increase blood pressure**, requiring **monitoring in hypertensive patients.**

Yes, it may cause **increased anxiety or jitteriness.**

Some people experience **irritability, mood swings, or depression.**

Abrupt cessation may result in **fatigue, increased appetite, and mild depression.**
Drug Interactions

It should **not** be taken with **MAOIs or specific SSRIs** because of the risk of **serotonin syndrome.**

Yes, but **blood sugar levels must be closely monitored.**

Yes, but it needs to be **carefully monitored** in order to avoid **hypertension.**

No direct interaction, but **weight loss can affect hormonal levels.**

**Yes**, too much caffeine can **enhance side effects such as jitteriness.**
Comparisons with Other Weight Loss Medications

- **Phentermine**: Short-term appetite suppressant. - **Semaglutide**: Long-term blood sugar and appetite control.

**Tirzepatide** offers **more and more sustained weight loss** compared to Phentermine.

- **Phentermine**: Appetite suppressant.
- **Orlistat**: Fat absorption blocker.

Yes, **Phentermine-Topiramate (Qsymia®)** is an **FDA-approved combination.**

**Contrave®** is an effect on brain chemistry, whereas **Phentermine** is a **stimulant appetite suppressant.**
Long-Term Use and Safety

It is **not FDA-approved** for long-term use.

It is **not FDA-approved** for long-term use.

It has a **low risk of addiction** but must be used with caution.

It can **raise heart rate and blood pressure**, so it must be **avoided in patients with heart disease.**
Cost and Insurance

Yes, but consult your doctor before restarting.

Yes, the body **develops tolerance**, reducing effectiveness.

Prices range from **$20 to $100 per month**.

Some insurance policies **cover it for treatment of obesity.**

Yes, **generic Phentermine is easily found and less expensive.**

**Only with a prescription** from an authorized practitioner.

Some **pharmacies provide discount coupons** and so forth.
Discontinuation and Withdrawal

**Appetite will return**, and **mild fatigue** may be felt.

Yes, **weight regain** will occur if lifestyle adjustments are discontinued.

Gradual tapering may **minimize withdrawal symptoms.**

**Yes**, and a few patients experience **greater hunger.**

Yes, but only **under medical supervision.**
Lifestyle Considerations

A **low-calorie, high-protein** diet with **whole foods** maximizes its efficacy.

Yes, but **users must watch for dizziness or low blood sugar.**

It may **decrease food cravings**, but **does not treat emotional triggers.**

It is **not FDA-approved** for maintenance but can be prescribed off-label.

Yes, and it can result in **insomnia** when taken late in the day.
Exercise and Physical Activity

Yes, **moderate physical activity** enhances weight loss as well as **cardiovascular health.**

It can **boost energy**, but **overexertion** is to be avoided.

Yes, **dry mouth is usual**, so it is **important to stay hydrated.**

**No,** it is **prohibited in professional sports** because of stimulant activity.

**Not directly**, but it **reduces body fat**, making muscles more visible.
Alternative Medications

- **Semaglutide (Wegovy®) – GLP-1 receptor agonist**
- **Tirzepatide (Zepbound®) – Dual GLP-1/GIP agonist**
- **Bupropion/Naltrexone (Contrave®) – Appetite suppressant**
- **Orlistat (Xenical®) – Fat blocker**

**Yes,** it is greatly **more potent** than the majority of OTC drugs.

It could be **paired with GLP-1 agonists** under medical monitoring in certain circumstances.

**Qsymia®** is a mixture of **Phentermine and Topiramate**, which is more effective in weight loss.

**Wegovy® has better long-term outcomes** and is **approved by the FDA for long-term weight management.**

Yes, but **safety limitations** restrict its **long-term approval.**

Not likely, because of **tolerance problems** and **possible cardiovascular side effects.**

Yes, **GLP-1 agonists and dual-hormone treatments** are under investigation.

Yes, it is **still one of the most frequent short-term weight loss drugs.**

Phentermine can continue to be **employed in combination therapies** but will most likely be **replaced by newer agents.**