Detailed Drug Information:

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Phentermine is in a class of drugscalled anorectics which decrease appetite by possibly changing brainlevels of serotonin. Phentermine is a nervous system stimulator like theamphetamines, causing stimulation, elevation of blood pressure, and fasterheart rates.

Obesity is usually defined as being 20% over ideal weight with resultantincrease in certain diseases including high cholesterol levels, heartdisease, high blood pressure, gallbladder disease, type II diabetesmellitus, hardening of the arteries, and degenerative arthritis. Weightloss decreases blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and improves diabetescontrol.

PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 30mg, 37.5mg.

STORAGE: Phentermine should be stored in a tight container atroom temperature.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Phentermine is usually used as a short-term drugalong with diet and behavior modification to treat obesity. Recently, ithas been combined with diet and fenfluramine (Pondimin) and used overlonger terms in selected obesity patients (P & P diets) with somefavorable long-term modest weight loss.

DOSING: Phentermine should be taken after breakfast; eveningdoses should be avoided because of secondary insomnia.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Phentermine should not be taken by patientswith glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, or a history of drug abuse or psychotic illnesses. Phentermine is not recommended in patients with high blood pressure that is not well controlled. Patients on phentermine should have their blood pressure closely followed. Insulin requirements may change inpatients on phentermine; alcohol can cause a drug interaction. Abruptstoppage of the drug can cause withdrawal with fatigue and depression. Phentermine is potentially addicting. Phentermine is not recommended forpatients with symptomatic heart disease including rhythm problems.

SIDE EFFECTS: Side effects include diarrhea, dry mouth,constipation, an unpleasant taste, hives, impotence, palpitations, highblood pressure, and fast heart rates. Central nervous system side effectsinclude overstimulation, insomnia, restlessness, tremor, and dizziness.