Phentermine, and Other Weight Loss Drugs: Beware

When it comes to weight loss, Americans will do anything. One of the most commonly online searched medications is Phentermine (Adipex). One half of the Phen-fen craze in the 90's, people saw amazing results. Phentermine is an appetite suppressant used for only a short period of time. This time range is within a few weeks. It is a controlled substance and can be both dangerous and addictive. 

Although the drug itself can be addictive, studies have shown that after a few weeks, the drug loses its effectiveness. The drug originally was for people who were morbidly overweight and had diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol. These problems could lead to something more severe, such as a heart attack or stroke. By taking Phentermine and adhering to a diet and exercise plan, these symptoms could be alleviated.

Phentermine is similar to an amphetamine. It is also known as an "anorectic" or "anorexigenic" drug. Phentermine stimulates the central nervous system (nerves and brain), which increases your heart rate and blood pressure and decreases your appetite. However, this increase of heart rate can be dangerous for individuals, especially those on other types of medications.

The safety of combination therapy with phentermine and any other drug products for weight loss, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (e.g., prozac,zoloft, paxil, luvox), have not been established. It is recommended that the medications not be taken together.

Meridia increases levels of brain chemicals that help reduce appetite. Oddly enough, Meridia was orginally developed to be an anti-depressant, but the weight loss results were better. Appetite-suppressants work by increasing serotonin altering the mood and appetite . Meridia can increase blood pressure and heart rate, people with any kind of heart disease shouldn't take this drug.
It is very costly and usually not covered by insurance companies.