Phentermine FAQs

Phentermine hcl is an effective appetite suppressant.

Phentermine hcl is an abbreviation of Phentermine Hydrochloride, also known simply as "phentermine".  Phentermine hcl is the active ingredient found in all phentermine tablets.

Phentermine hcl is an appetite suppressant which was approved by the FDA in 1959. In the 1990's phentermine hcl was prescribed in conjunction with another drug called fenfluramine as together they produced impressively rapid weight loss results. This cocktail of drugs became known as Fen-Phen. However in 1997 due to instances of heart valve failures amongst a significant number of Fen-Phen patients the use of phentermine hcl and fenfluramine was stopped and fenfluramine was removed from the market.  The FDA still considered phentermine hcl as a safe drug to use and it remained available.

Today phentermine hcl is sold under several brand names including Adipex-P, Ionamin and Duromine.  Generic versions of phentermine hcl are also available. Phentermine hcl is a controlled substance in the USA and classed as a Schedule IV drug under the Controlled Substances Act. Phentermine hcl is similar to, but not the same as amphetamines. Phentermine hcl is intended to act as a weight loss aid for the heavily overweight and particularly those that suffer with additional illnesses. It is recommended that phentermine hcl only be used for short term rather than long term use. Normally phentermine hcl is not prescribed by doctors for a period of longer than 12 weeks. The need for patients to learn new lifestyle habits while taking phentermine hcl is usually something that is emphasized by their doctors.

Patients normally find that the appetite suppression and the additional energy they get from phentermine hcl makes making these life adjustments easier. Once they stop taking phentermine hcl it is recommended that they continue their new eating and exercise habits to maintain their weight loss. 

Phentermine hcl is recognized as safe and is normally well tolerated well, but like all drugs there are possible side effects. Visit this page to learn more about phentermine hcl side effects.