DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Phentermine

March 21, 2017

Phentermine Hydrochloride Oral capsule

What is this medicine?

PHENTERMINE (FEN ter meen) decreases your appetite. It is used with a reduced calorie diet and exercise to help you lose weight.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • agitation

  • glaucoma

  • heart disease

  • high blood pressure

  • history of substance abuse

  • lung disease called Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (PPH)

  • taken an MAOI like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, or Parnate in last 14 days

  • thyroid disease

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to phentermine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. This medicine is usually taken 30 minutes before or 1 to 2 hours after breakfast. Avoid taking this medicine in the evening. It may interfere with sleep. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • duloxetine

  • MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

  • medicines for colds or breathing difficulties like pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine

  • procarbazine

  • sibutramine

  • SSRIs like citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, and sertraline

  • stimulants like dexmethylphenidate, methylphenidate or modafinil

  • venlafaxine

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • medicines for diabetes

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Notify your physician immediately if you become short of breath while doing your normal activities.

Do not take this medicine within 6 hours of bedtime. It can keep you from getting to sleep. Avoid drinks that contain caffeine and try to stick to a regular bedtime every night.

This medicine was intended to be used in addition to a healthy diet and exercise. The best results are achieved this way. This medicine is only indicated for short-term use. Eventually your weight loss may level out. At that point, the drug will only help you maintain your new weight. Do not increase or in any way change your dose without consulting your doctor.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may increase dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • chest pain, palpitations

  • depression or severe changes in mood

  • increased blood pressure

  • irritability

  • nervousness or restlessness

  • severe dizziness

  • shortness of breath

  • problems urinating

  • unusual swelling of the legs

  • vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • blurred vision or other eye problems

  • changes in sexual ability or desire

  • constipation or diarrhea

  • difficulty sleeping

  • dry mouth or unpleasant taste

  • headache

  • nausea

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children. This medicine can be abused. Keep your medicine in a safe place to protect it from theft. Do not share this medicine with anyone. Selling or giving away this medicine is dangerous and against the law.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Phentermine Hydrochloride Oral capsule, extended-release

What is this medicine?

PHENTERMINE (FEN ter meen) decreases your appetite. It is used with a reduced calorie diet and exercise to help you lose weight.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • agitation

  • glaucoma

  • heart disease

  • high blood pressure

  • history of substance abuse

  • lung disease called Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (PPH)

  • taken an MAOI like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, or Parnate in last 14 days

  • thyroid disease

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to phentermine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. This medicine is usually taken before breakfast or at least 10 to 14 hours before going to bed. Avoid taking this medicine in the evening. It may interfere with sleep. Swallow whole. Do not open or chew the capsules. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • duloxetine

  • MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

  • medicines for colds or breathing difficulties like pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine

  • procarbazine

  • sibutramine

  • SSRIs like citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, and sertraline

  • stimulants like dexmethylphenidate, methylphenidate or modafinil

  • venlafaxine

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • medicines for diabetes

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Notify your physician immediately if you become short of breath while doing your normal activities.

Do not take this medicine within 6 hours of bedtime. It can keep you from getting to sleep. Avoid drinks that contain caffeine and try to stick to a regular bedtime every night.

This medicine was intended to be used in addition to a healthy diet and exercise. The best results are achieved this way. This medicine is only indicated for short-term use. Eventually your weight loss may level out. At that point, the drug will only help you maintain your new weight. Do not increase or in any way change your dose without consulting your doctor.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may increase dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • chest pain, palpitations

  • depression or severe changes in mood

  • increased blood pressure

  • irritability

  • nervousness or restlessness

  • severe dizziness

  • shortness of breath

  • problems urinating

  • unusual swelling of the legs

  • vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • blurred vision or other eye problems

  • changes in sexual ability or desire

  • constipation or diarrhea

  • difficulty sleeping

  • dry mouth or unpleasant taste

  • headache

  • nausea

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children. This medicine can be abused. Keep your medicine in a safe place to protect it from theft. Do not share this medicine with anyone. Selling or giving away this medicine is dangerous and against the law.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Phentermine Hydrochloride Oral disintegrating tablet

What is this medicine?

PHENTERMINE (FEN ter meen) decreases your appetite. It is used with a reduced calorie diet and exercise to help you lose weight.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • agitation

  • glaucoma

  • heart disease

  • high blood pressure

  • history of substance abuse

  • lung disease called Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (PPH)

  • taken an MAOI like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, or Parnate in last 14 days

  • thyroid disease

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to phentermine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. The tablets should stay in the bottle until immediately before you take your dose. Use dry hands to remove the dose from the bottle. Do not cut or split the tablets in half. Place the tablet in the mouth and allow it to dissolve, and then swallow. While you may take these tablets with water, it is not necessary to do so. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you've taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • duloxetine

  • MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

  • medicines for colds or breathing difficulties like pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine

  • procarbazine

  • sibutramine

  • SSRIs like citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, and sertraline

  • stimulants like dexmethylphenidate, methylphenidate or modafinil

  • venlafaxine

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • medicines for diabetes

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Notify your physician immediately if you become short of breath while doing your normal activities.

Do not take this medicine within 6 hours of bedtime. It can keep you from getting to sleep. Avoid drinks that contain caffeine and try to stick to a regular bedtime every night.

This medicine is intended to be used in addition to a healthy diet and exercise. The best results are achieved this way. This medicine is only indicated for short-term use. Eventually your weight loss may level out. At that point, the drug will only help you maintain your new weight. Do not increase or in any way change your dose without consulting your doctor.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may increase dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • chest pain, palpitations

  • depression or severe changes in mood

  • increased blood pressure

  • irritability

  • nervousness or restlessness

  • severe dizziness

  • shortness of breath

  • problems urinating

  • unusual swelling of the legs

  • vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • blurred vision or other eye problems

  • changes in sexual ability or desire

  • constipation or diarrhea

  • difficulty sleeping

  • dry mouth or unpleasant taste

  • headache

  • nausea

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children. This medicine can be abused. Keep your medicine in a safe place to protect it from theft. Do not share this medicine with anyone. Selling or giving away this medicine is dangerous and against the law.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Phentermine Hydrochloride Oral tablet

What is this medicine?

PHENTERMINE (FEN ter meen) decreases your appetite. It is used with a reduced calorie diet and exercise to help you lose weight.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • agitation

  • glaucoma

  • heart disease

  • high blood pressure

  • history of substance abuse

  • lung disease called Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (PPH)

  • taken an MAOI like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, or Parnate in last 14 days

  • thyroid disease

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to phentermine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. This medicine is usually taken 30 minutes before or 1 to 2 hours after breakfast. Avoid taking this medicine in the evening. It may interfere with sleep. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • duloxetine

  • MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

  • medicines for colds or breathing difficulties like pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine

  • procarbazine

  • sibutramine

  • SSRIs like citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, and sertraline

  • stimulants like dexmethylphenidate, methylphenidate or modafinil

  • venlafaxine

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • medicines for diabetes

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Notify your physician immediately if you become short of breath while doing your normal activities.

Do not take this medicine within 6 hours of bedtime. It can keep you from getting to sleep. Avoid drinks that contain caffeine and try to stick to a regular bedtime every night.

This medicine was intended to be used in addition to a healthy diet and exercise. The best results are achieved this way. This medicine is only indicated for short-term use. Eventually your weight loss may level out. At that point, the drug will only help you maintain your new weight. Do not increase or in any way change your dose without consulting your doctor.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may increase dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • chest pain, palpitations

  • depression or severe changes in mood

  • increased blood pressure

  • irritability

  • nervousness or restlessness

  • severe dizziness

  • shortness of breath

  • problems urinating

  • unusual swelling of the legs

  • vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • blurred vision or other eye problems

  • changes in sexual ability or desire

  • constipation or diarrhea

  • difficulty sleeping

  • dry mouth or unpleasant taste

  • headache

  • nausea

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children. This medicine can be abused. Keep your medicine in a safe place to protect it from theft. Do not share this medicine with anyone. Selling or giving away this medicine is dangerous and against the law.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Phentermine Resin Complex Oral capsule, extended-release

What is this medicine?

PHENTERMINE (FEN ter meen) decreases your appetite. It is used with a reduced calorie diet and exercise to help you lose weight.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • agitation

  • glaucoma

  • heart disease

  • high blood pressure

  • history of substance abuse

  • lung disease called Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (PPH)

  • taken an MAOI like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, or Parnate in last 14 days

  • thyroid disease

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to phentermine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. This medicine is usually taken before breakfast or at least 10 to 14 hours before going to bed. Avoid taking this medicine in the evening. It may interfere with sleep. Swallow whole. Do not open or chew the capsules. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • duloxetine

  • MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

  • medicines for colds or breathing difficulties like pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine

  • procarbazine

  • sibutramine

  • SSRIs like citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, and sertraline

  • stimulants like dexmethylphenidate, methylphenidate or modafinil

  • venlafaxine

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • medicines for diabetes

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Notify your physician immediately if you become short of breath while doing your normal activities.

Do not take this medicine within 6 hours of bedtime. It can keep you from getting to sleep. Avoid drinks that contain caffeine and try to stick to a regular bedtime every night.

This medicine was intended to be used in addition to a healthy diet and exercise. The best results are achieved this way. This medicine is only indicated for short-term use. Eventually your weight loss may level out. At that point, the drug will only help you maintain your new weight. Do not increase or in any way change your dose without consulting your doctor.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may increase dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • chest pain, palpitations

  • depression or severe changes in mood

  • increased blood pressure

  • irritability

  • nervousness or restlessness

  • severe dizziness

  • shortness of breath

  • problems urinating

  • unusual swelling of the legs

  • vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • blurred vision or other eye problems

  • changes in sexual ability or desire

  • constipation or diarrhea

  • difficulty sleeping

  • dry mouth or unpleasant taste

  • headache

  • nausea

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children. This medicine can be abused. Keep your medicine in a safe place to protect it from theft. Do not share this medicine with anyone. Selling or giving away this medicine is dangerous and against the law.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert