Jun 27 2011
Phentermine: Types, Dosage, and Risks
People who are obese have encountered Phentermine one way or another, at least when they require immediate weight loss. Phentermine is an anti-obesity drug that acts as a stimulant to control the appetite. If taken together with proper diet and exercise, this drug can work wonders to the weight loss goals of obese people.
Various Types of Phentermine
There are two main types of Phentermine in the market. This weight loss drug can be purchased as pills or in capsule form. Both drugs work similarly because of the same formulation that makes both of them. They can effectively work to suppress the appetite, burn calories, and even increase metabolism.
The only difference between the two is the length of time they take effect after being taken. Capsules work immediately after ingestion because of the capsules’ nature of being an instant-acting medication. On the other hand, the pills act slower. Since pills do not dissolve immediately, their effects may take a while. The option, however, is not dependent on the patient. It usually lies in the physician upon analyzing the patient’s medical history.
Doctor’s Supervision Needed to Avoid Side Effects
The problem with Phentermine, however, is that some obese people experience side effects. It includes serious conditions such as chest pain, swelling in the ankles or feet, confusion, high blood pressure, and shortness of breath. Less serious side effects include restlessness, hyperactivity, headache, insomnia, diarrhea, constipation, and impotence. With all these, doctor’s supervision is really important when taking Phentermine.
The Right Dosage of Phentermine for Weight Loss
Phentermine capsules come in doses of 15 mg, 30 mg, and 37.5 mg. Doctors often recommend any of these dosages to the patient depending on his obesity condition and other medical considerations. Usually, Phentermine is recommended to be taken once every day, preferably in the morning. When speaking of tablets, an 18.75 mg dosage can be given once every morning. This involves half a tablet of Phentermine. For a full 37.5 dosage, one tablet is recommended every day.
It is very important that Phentermine dosage is followed correctly. Over dosage can cause several problems such as diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, irregular heartbeat, hallucinations, seizure, and the like. If you happen to miss a dose, take it as soon as you have remembered. Do not double your Phentermine intake if you missed a dose.
The Best Way to Take Phentermine
Phentermine is not designed for long-term use. If you use it longer than what is prescribed, the drug will not be as effective as it really is. Plus, there is a huge risk that this weight loss drug can be abused. The best time to take this drug is before breakfast. However, it can also be taken an hour or two after breakfast. This usually depends on what kind of Phentermine you are taking. Your doctor will advise you in terms of the right time to take the medication.
In case you experience increased hunger or you think it is not working properly for you, better talk to your doctor immediately.
Phentermine may be a lifesaver to a lot of people suffering from obesity. However, if not taken properly, Phentermine intake can give a lot of risks in one’s life. So to make sure Phentermine will serve you best, know more about this weight loss drug and always be guided by a medical professional.

