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What is phentermine?

Phentermine (brand names Adipex-P, Ionamin) is a prescriptiondrug used for weight loss. This medication works in the brain to decrease appetite. It should be used for only short periods (for a few weeks) as part of a physician-guided weight loss program, which includes a reduced calorie diet and exercise. Your doctor should decide if phentermine is right for you based on your weight, height, and any health problems you may have. In combination with a reduced calorie diet, the use of phentermine has been shown to produce additional weight loss. The safety and effectiveness of using phentermine with other drugs for weight loss has not been proven.

Weight loss is greatest during the first few weeks of therapy but typically levels off with continued use. Weight loss can vary from person to person and phentermine does not work for everyone.

Phentermine is typically taken in the morning or 10-14 hours before bedtime to minimize trouble sleeping.

Sources:
Micromedex Healthcare Series. Micromedex Inc., 1999.
Adipex-P product information. Teva Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 1998.
Drug Information Handbook. American Pharmaceutical Association, 1999.

This answer prepared 12/14/00.