Phentermine is a tried-and-true weight loss medication that has been used since the 1950s. It has a long safety track record and has been extensively used for weight loss. VIVA Wellness has been developing personalized, science-based weight loss programs and prescribing Phentermine for clients in Milwaukee for years. While Phentermine can work wonders when it comes to weight loss, it’s important to discuss its rare but potential side effects, which we are trained to help our clients with should they experience side effects.
Important Considerations for Drug Interactions With Phentermine
Certain medications should never be combined due to the risk of significant interactions. In some cases, if two medicines are used together and an interaction might occur, we may need to adjust dosages or take other precautions.
Avoid using this medication with the following drugs, as we may opt for alternative treatments or adjust your current medications:
- Linezolid
- Methylene Blue
- Phenelzine
- Selegiline
- Rasagiline
- Safinamide
- Furazolidone
- Isocarboxazid
- Tranylcypromine
- Moclobemide
- Nialamide
- Sibutramine
- Iproniazid
- Procarbazine
What is Phentermine
Phentermine, a powerful appetite suppressant, is an FDA-approved drug developed in 1959 to treat obesity in individuals over the age of 17. It is considered a controlled substance, so it is only available with a prescription. Over the years, it has become a go-to medication for healthy weight loss. Most patients lose about 3 percent of their body weight in just three months.
How Does Phentermine Work for Weight Loss
Phentermine’s most effective actions involve norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that triggers the fight-or-flight response, boosting metabolism. This also makes it a powerful appetite suppressant, helping you fight cravings and lose weight. Phentermine is known for its ability to activate the sympathetic nervous system. It delivers fantastic results by mimicking the actions of natural adrenal hormones in the body.
Side Effects Of Phentermine
Although Phentermine’s side effects are rare, it’s essential to have a deep understanding in case you should experience any unpleasantries.
These side effects often result from improper dosing, so working closely with an experienced medical provider who can determine the proper dosing is essential. At VIVA Wellness, you will work one-on-one with a dedicated nurse practitioner who will provide you with treatment options and tools to mitigate any negative side effects that you experience. For most of our patients, the benefits of Phentermine far outweigh the negative effects.
Here are some of the side effects that have been reported, although they’re rare:
- faster heart rate
- sleeplessness
- nervousness
- constipation
- chest pain
- decreased ability to exercise
- dizziness
- fainting
- headache
- numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- swelling of the feet or lower legs
- trembling or shaking of the legs, arms, hands, or feet
- trouble breathing
- trouble with thinking, speaking, or walking
- weakness
- redness of the skin
At VIVA Wellness, we are trained to help treat our patient’s side effects from the medications we prescribe. Since we have been working with Phentermine for years, we understand the steps to take should you experience any side effects.
Flexible Dosing
Phentermine is a phenomenal option because we can offer flexible dosing. Phentermine comes in a low dose 8mg tab, a 15mg cap, and a 37.5mg tab/cap. VIVA Wellness Nurse Practitioners know how to properly use your history and goals to prescribe the proper dosing to maximize results while still minimizing negative side effects.
Before We Prescribe
At VIVA Wellness, we carefully evaluate several factors before prescribing Phentermine:
Allergies: We check for any history of allergic reactions to Phentermine or other medications and inquire about allergies to foods, dyes, or other substances to avoid adverse effects.
Pediatric Use: Phentermine is not recommended for children due to the lack of established safety and efficacy.
Geriatric Considerations: While Phentermine is generally safe for the elderly, we assess for age-related health issues and may adjust the dosage accordingly.
Breastfeeding: Phentermine is avoided in breastfeeding mothers due to potential harm to the infant. Alternatives are considered or breastfeeding may need to be paused.
These steps ensure that Phentermine is prescribed safely and effectively based on individual needs.
A Cost-Effective Option
Compared to other weight loss medications, Phentermine is very low-cost. Our price-sensitive clients are always happy to learn that there is an affordable option for them.
Here at VIVA Wellness, your individual needs and comfort are our top priorities. We will ensure you feel at ease, whether it’s Phentermine or other treatments. Our nurse practitioners will guide and support you every step of the way, ensuring that your weight loss plan is perfectly tailored to you. We offer many services to complement your comprehensive plan, including supplements, IV vitamins and hydration, infrared sauna, colonics, and more. At VIVA Wellness, we are elevating Wellness in Wisconsin.
Wrapping Up
Now that you have a great understanding of the potential side effects of phentermine and see the benefits outweigh the risks, give us a call for a consultation today.