ABSTRACT
This chapter describes trade name, classification, approved indications for psychological disorders, available dosage forms, storage, and compatibility, usual dosage and administration, relative contraindications, and clinically significant drug interactions of phentermine. Safety and efficacy of phentermine pharmacotherapy for women who are breast-feeding and their neonates and infants have not been established. Avoid prescribing phentermine pharmacotherapy to women who are breast-feeding. Prescribe phentermine pharmacotherapy as a component of a comprehensive weight reduction program that includes medically supervised dietary restrictions, an individualized exercise program, and appropriate psychotherapy. Phentermine is a CNS stimulant sympathomimetic amine pharmacologically similar to the amphetamines. Actions include CNS stimulation and the elevation of blood pressure. Phentermine has been associated with tachyphylaxis and tolerance. Phentermine is well absorbed following oral ingestion. Phentermine and its metabolites are excreted by the kidneys. Phentermine-induced psychosis is often clinically indistinguishable from schizophrenia. Prescribe short-term pharmacotherapy with the lowest effective dosage and the least amount of phentermine feasible for dispensing at one time.
