Phendimetrazine

Obesity

Drug Status

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Government Approvals

US(FDA)

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WHO Essential Medicine

NO

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Known Teratogen

NO

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Pharmaceutical Class

Sympathomimetic Amine Anorectic

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Controlled Drug Substance

No

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Drug Ingredient

Phendimetrazine

Summary

  • Phendimetrazine is used to aid weight loss in obese adults. It's part of a weight reduction program that includes diet and exercise.

  • Phendimetrazine works by stimulating the central nervous system to suppress appetite, similar to amphetamines. It helps in weight loss by reducing feelings of hunger.

  • The usual dose for adults is one 105 mg extended-release capsule taken in the morning, 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast. It's not recommended for children under 17 years of age.

  • Common side effects include overstimulation, restlessness, insomnia, and gastrointestinal issues like nausea. Serious effects can include primary pulmonary hypertension and valvular heart disease.

  • Phendimetrazine should not be used if you have cardiovascular disease, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, or a history of drug abuse. It's also not recommended during pregnancy, nursing, or with certain medications like monoamine oxidase inhibitors.

Indications and Purpose

How does Phendimetrazine work?

Phendimetrazine acts as a sympathomimetic amine, stimulating the central nervous system to suppress appetite. It is similar to amphetamines and helps in weight loss by reducing hunger.

Is Phendimetrazine effective?

Phendimetrazine is shown to aid weight loss in obese adults when used as part of a calorie-restricted diet. However, the increased weight loss over placebo is modest, and its long-term impact is clinically limited.

What is Phendimetrazine?

Phendimetrazine is used as a short-term aid in weight loss for obese adults, working by stimulating the central nervous system to suppress appetite. It is part of a weight reduction program that includes diet and exercise.

Directions for Use

For how long do I take Phendimetrazine?

Phendimetrazine is typically used as a short-term adjunct in a weight reduction program, usually for a few weeks. It is not intended for long-term use.

How do I take Phendimetrazine?

Take Phendimetrazine as one extended-release capsule in the morning, 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast. There are no specific food restrictions, but it should be part of a calorie-restricted diet.

How long does it take for Phendimetrazine to start working?

Phendimetrazine's effects begin shortly after taking the medication, as it is designed to be an extended-release formulation. The exact onset time can vary, but it generally starts working within a few hours.

How should I store Phendimetrazine?

Store Phendimetrazine at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) in a tight container to protect it from moisture. Follow the storage instructions on the label to ensure the medication remains effective.

What is the usual dose of Phendimetrazine?

The usual daily dose for adults is one extended-release capsule (105 mg) taken in the morning, 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast. Phendimetrazine is not recommended for children under 17 years of age.

Warnings and Precautions

Can I take Phendimetrazine with other prescription drugs?

Phendimetrazine should not be used with monoamine oxidase inhibitors due to the risk of hypertensive crisis. It may also decrease the effectiveness of adrenergic neuron blocking drugs and interact adversely with alcohol.

Can Phendimetrazine be taken safely while breastfeeding?

Phendimetrazine is not recommended while breastfeeding due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants. A decision should be made to either discontinue the drug or stop nursing.

Can Phendimetrazine be taken safely while pregnant?

Phendimetrazine is contraindicated during pregnancy as weight loss offers no benefit and may harm the fetus. There is no strong evidence from human studies, but the potential risk warrants avoiding its use.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Phendimetrazine?

Drinking alcohol while taking Phendimetrazine may result in an adverse drug reaction. It is advisable to avoid alcohol to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the medication.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Phendimetrazine?

Phendimetrazine may cause overstimulation, which could affect your ability to exercise safely. If you experience symptoms like dizziness or palpitations, consult your doctor before continuing with your exercise routine.

Is Phendimetrazine safe for the elderly?

Elderly patients should use Phendimetrazine cautiously, starting at the low end of the dosing range. This is due to the increased likelihood of decreased kidney function and other health issues. Monitoring renal function may be useful.

Who should avoid taking Phendimetrazine?

Phendimetrazine is contraindicated in individuals with cardiovascular disease, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, and a history of drug abuse. It should not be used with other anorectic agents or during pregnancy and nursing.