Phentermine, when combined with lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, can often help overweight people lose weight. Like many medications, phentermine has potential side effects. These include a risk of addiction and insomnia, among others. However, there are several ways for you to reduce your risk of adverse side effects while getting the benefits of this medication.
Consult Your Doctor
The best way to find the appropriate dosage and duration for you is to consult with your doctor. Your doctor may screen you for issues that would cause potential problems such as kidney disease or high blood pressure. They will also be able to make sure any medications you are currently taking work well with phentermine.
Know What Type of Pills You Are Taking
Phentermine comes in several types of pills and capsules. You can also look at finding a doctor to help you find the best medicine for your body type. Extended release capsules should be swallowed whole, about an hour before breakfast. Dissolvable tablets should be placed on the tongue and allowed to dissolve completely before being washed down with a glass of water. It is important to know what kind of pills you have, when you should take them, and the appropriate method to take them.
Track the Effectiveness
Phentermine is intended for short-term weight loss. However, some people find it stops working before their course of medication has finished. If this happens to you, you should consult your doctor to adjust the time you take the pill or the type of pill you take. You should not adjust your dosage without consulting your doctor.
Be Aware of Possible Side Effects
While you may not experience side effects or experience only mild side effects, it is helpful to know the potential side effects of phentermine so you can adjust your dosage if you experience negative effects. It is important to understand that phentermine can be addictive, so it is best to follow an appropriate dose regime for a short amount of time. Additionally, check regularly for changes in your blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, mood changes, or changes in your sexual interests.
Wean off Slowly
Depending on your dosage, stopping phentermine suddenly can cause symptoms of withdrawal. It is best to wean off slowly by decreasing your dosage over several days. This can make the experience of stopping easier.
If you decide phentermine is right for you, you should make sure you take an appropriate dosage and follow basic safety precautions to make sure the medication is as effective as possible.