Phentermine hydrochloride, also known as phentermine HCL, is an appetite suppressant. A prescription medicine used to aid weight loss, phentermine HCL is marketed under the brand names Adipex-P®, Oby-Cap®, T-Diet® and Zantryl®.
Your doctor may prescribe phentermine HCL if you are obese and have not been able to lose enough weight through dieting and exercise. Weight loss reduces your risk for obesity-related problems including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and a shortened life span.
It is suggested that you use phentermine HCL in combination with a doctor-approved diet, exercise and other behavioral changes that help you lose weight.
Health professionals believe that phentermine HCL works by acting on the area of your brain that controls your appetite. It increases your heart rate, raises your blood pressure and stimulates your nervous system.
Your doctor will probably tell you to only take phentermine HCL for a few weeks at a time. The longer you take it, the more risk that it will cause serious side effects.
Phentermine HCL may be habit-forming. Instead of stopping this medication suddenly, your doctor will gradually reduce your dosage so that you can avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Do not take phentermine HCL with other appetite suppressants. Tell your doctor about any other medications you take, including MAO inhibitors. Do not take MAO inhibitors within two weeks before or after taking this medicine as they may cause a serious, and possibly fatal, interaction.
Read the labels on any medicines you take to be sure they do not have ingredients that could increase your heart rate or blood pressure. High amounts of caffeine can also increase your chance of side effects.
People have reported side effects while taking phentermine HCL. Common side effects include:
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Difficulty sleeping
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects persist or worsen.
Call your doctor immediately if you experience more serious side effects, such as:
- A pounding, fast, or irregular heartbeat
- Mood changes including agitation, hallucinations, uncontrolled anger and nervousness
- Changes in your sexual ability or interest in sex
- Uncontrolled muscle movements
Visit our Phentermine HCL page to get more information about the drug and to get a free coupon to save off the retail price. Also visit our Weight Loss & Diet Rx category page to get more information about related drugs.
