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Phentermine (English phentermine) – a drug for the treatment of obesity. Its action is based on the release of norepinephrine and, as a result, suppression of appetite.

Phentermine is a chemical compound

Phentermine as a chemical is 2-methyl-1-phenylpropan-2-amine. The empirical formula of phentermine is C10H15N.

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Phentermine is a sympathomimetic, suppressing appetite. Phentermine exhibits equal activity with respect to weight loss, both in the continuous daily use of it, and in the appointment of short courses. Thus weight loss makes from 5 up to 15% from an initial in 60% of patients. Taking phentermine in combination with a hypocaloric diet, achieve more significant weight loss compared to patients who are only on the hypocaloric diet. Weight loss when taking phentermine is usually over a week of more than 0.5 kg compared with placebo. Tolerance often develops to fenetermine. Phentermine is recommended for therapy only by a short course. Therapy with phentermine is strictly limited, and is prescribed for patients with a body mass index (BMI)> 30 kg / m2 or patients with BMI> 27 kg / m2 who have risk factors. The most common side effects of phentermine include nervousness, dry mouth, constipation and hypertension. In this regard, the appointment of phentermine is not recommended for patients with arterial hypertension and concomitant cardiovascular pathology. Also with care, phentermine should be administered to patients with anxious and depressive conditions, since it can aggravate their manifestations. The structure and pharmacological action of phentermine is close to amphetamine. Therefore, phentermine can cause physical and mental dependence. In this regard, patients who have a history of drug dependence, phentermine is not assigned (Khorosheva GA, Melnichenko GA).

Indications for the use of phentermine

Phentermine is used in the treatment of obesity and body weight maintenance only as part of a complex therapy that involves a lifestyle change that includes dietary restrictions and / or physical stress. The term of therapy can not be long and is limited to several weeks. It is indicated for patients with the following body mass index (BMI = body weight in kg / (growth in m) 2):

  • For patients without concomitant diseases – with a BMI of at least 30 kg / m2
  • For patients with risk factors – with a BMI of at least 27 kg / m2