Sentis: The Chilean Brand of Phentermine

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medication or supplement regimen.

Sentis is a prescription-only weight loss pill, widely used in Chile, that contains phentermine as its active ingredient, known to suppress appetite and boost energy for weight loss. It should be used for short-term treatment in combination with a healthy diet and exercise. Users should be aware of potential side effects and contraindications.

Sentis

Too busy for the full read? Here’s what you need to know:

  • Sentis is a popular brand of phentermine weight loss pills, predominantly sold in Chile.
  • The active ingredient, phentermine HCL, works by suppressing appetite and boosting energy.
  • Its purchase and usage are regulated due to its potent nature, requiring a prescription from a medical doctor.
  • It’s intended for short-term use and must be combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
  • Potential side effects range from dry mouth and insomnia to more severe cardiovascular issues.
  • Sentis should not be used with certain medications and is not suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions.

Sentis is a popular brand of phentermine weight loss pills sold in Chile. It works to suppress appetite and boost energy to help users lose weight faster. However, in addition to its desired effects, this medication can also cause a wide range of unpleasant side effects.

Despite the risk, Sentis and similar medications have exploded in popularity in recent years, with over 970,000 boxes of phentermine sold in Chile in 2017 alone ( 1 ).

What is Sentis?

Sentis is a prescription-only appetite suppressant

Sentis box

The active ingredient, phentermine hydrochloride (phentermine HCL), functions as a central nervous system stimulant to develop a “fight or flight”-like response in the body. This reaction helps suppress appetite, boost energy and promote faster weight loss.

Ingredients

The active and inactive ingredients in Sentis pills are ( 2 ):

phentermine hydrochloride (chemical structure)
  • Active ingredient: phentermine hydrochloride
  • Inactive ingredients: Lactose Monohydrate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Pregelatinized Starch, Colloidal Silicon Dioxide, Magnesium Stearate, FD & C Blue No1 Dye, Titanium Dioxide, Gelatin 

Who Can Take Sentis?

Sentis is designed as a short-term treatment for exogenous obesity.

Eligibility for this medication is assessed based on a patient’s body mass index (BMI), medical history, current & recent medications, lifestyle factors, and overall commitment to weight loss ( 2 ).

In terms of body mass index, Sentis is an option for patients with a BMI:

  • Greater than 30 kg/m2
  • 27-30 kg/m2 plus a weight-related condition, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol

A physician will assess the other factors (such as those mentioned above) at your initial consultation to rule out contraindications and make sure that Sentis is a safe and appropriate option for you.

This medication should always be used in combination with a healthy diet and regular exercise and should never be taken for more than three months at a time.

Only a medical doctor can determine if Sentis (phentermine) is right for you.

Contraindications

assorted pills and bottles on a counter top
Before starting Sentis, tell your doctor about all other medications and supplements

Sentis is a powerful medication. As such, it is not right for everyone – especially in the presence of certain medical conditions and other medications. 

Sentis with Antidepressants

Do not take Sentis and antidepressants together unless your doctor specifically instructs you to do so.
Avoid phentermine weight loss pills if you currently take, or have recently taken (within the last two weeks), a:

  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
  • Tricyclic antidepressant

Some physicians prescribe a low-dose antidepressant together with phentermine to increase the weight loss pill’s effectiveness. However, this combination involves a very low dose of the antidepressant (much lower than therapeutic doses) and should only be utilized under close medical supervision ( 3 ).

Sentis with Hypothyroidism

Phentermine is designed as a treatment for obesity caused by an improper energy balance.

Hypothyroidism often leads to weight gain independent of behavioral factors (e.g., diet and exercise), so prescription appetite suppressants should not be used as a primary treatment for this condition.

Sentis with Other Medications & Medical Conditions

Sentis should not be used with certain medical conditions, medications, and supplements.

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Talk to your doctor about your complete medical history (including both physical and mental illness), and make sure to discuss all current & recent medications.

If you are admitted to the hospital or find out that you need surgery while taking phentermine, tell your surgeon and the rest of the medical team about your weight loss medication. Combining Sentis and anesthesia medications can produce dangerous reactions ( 2 , 3 ).

This is NOT a complete list of contraindications. A medical doctor is the only person who is qualified to determine if Sentis is right for you.

Read more: Phentermine Contraindications

Side Effects of Sentis

Sentis is a widely-popular and effective weight loss medication, but it is not the perfect drug.

Most patients experience only mild reactions, such as dry mouth or trouble sleeping, but this medication can also cause much more serious side effects (including heart and lung problems).

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, particularly when it comes to chest pain, trouble breathing, and other cardiovascular issues. If you are over 65 and considering taking Sentis, it is essential to discuss these risks with your doctor.

Severe Side Effects

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these side effects while taking Sentis:

  • Chest pain
  • Trouble breathing
  • Fainting
  • Swelling of feet or lower legs
  • Difficulty in carrying-out day to day activities

These reactions may be symptomatic of a serious phentermine side effect.

Common Side Effects

The most common side effects of phentermine are dry mouth (xerostomia), trouble sleeping (insomnia), and constipation ( 4 ).

Other common side effects of Sentis include: 

  • Headache
  • Increased heart rate/blood pressure
  • Fatigue
  • Mood changes (e.g., depression, “phen rage”)
  • Changes in sex drive
  • Menstrual irregularities
  • Hair loss
  • Nausea/vomiting

Contact your doctor or seek professional medical attention if you have any side effect that interferes with daily activities, persists, or worsens.

Read more: Phentermine Side Effects

Dosage

Sentis is currently available in two doses: Sentis 18.75 mg and Sentis 37.5 mg.

Both doses are sold as capsules and packaged in boxes of thirty (30) pills ( 5 ).

Given the potent and potentially-addictive nature of this drug, doctors are instructed always to prescribe the lowest effective dose. As a result, many patients start with 18.75 mg per day and only progress to Sentis 37.5 mg if the lower dose is not working. Sentis 37.5 mg is the most popular and maximum daily dosage.

This medication is only approved for short-term use. The maximum recommended treatment period is twelve weeks. This guideline arises from a desire to: (a) prevent patients from building tolerance to the stimulant and (b) minimize the risk of addiction. 

How to Take Sentis

Depending on your doctor’s instructions, you may take this medication one or two times per day.

The pills are most effective if you take them on an empty stomach – either before breakfast or 1-2 hours after eating. Swallow your tablet with water ( 2 ).

In general, avoid taking this medication within 8 hours of your regular bedtime. If you only take one tablet per day, this is easy. However, if you take a second dose midway through the day, make sure that you take it early in the afternoon so that you can still sleep at night.

Never take more phentermine than directed. Always take Sentis EXACTLY as prescribed. 

Precautions

While taking Sentis, it’s important to keep some potential interactions in mind. Consider the following precautions while taking phentermine:

Sentis and Alcohol

Do not drink alcohol while taking Sentis. The combination can cause or exacerbate neurological and cardiovascular side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, racing pulse, and chest pain. Mixing the two substances can prove dangerous ( 6 ).

Sentis and Pregnancy/Birth Control

Phentermine, the main ingredient in Sentis pills, is marked pregnancy Category X. You should not take this medication while pregnant, nursing, or trying to conceive.

If you are sexually active, it is wise to use contraception while taking Sentis. Check with your doctor and pharmacist to make sure that your chosen form of birth control does not interact with phentermine.

Read more about Phentermine Contraindications.

Buying Sentis in Chile

Sentis is widely available in Chile. After a doctor prescribes this medication, pills can be purchased at most major pharmacies. Some major Chilean pharmacies that carry Sentis include Cruz Verde, Farmazon, Pharol, Farmacia Ahumada, and Salcobrand.

You cannot buy Sentis without a prescription. The main ingredient in these weight loss pills (phentermine HCL) is a controlled substance, so the distribution and sale of Sentis are tightly controlled.

The only way to legally and safely buy Sentis weight loss pills is to schedule an appointment with a trustworthy doctor, obtain a prescription (receta cheque) and then fill it at your local pharmacy.

Please note that online pharmacies may not be a reliable or legal source of Sentis. Buying from unregulated sources can result in receiving medications that are counterfeit or otherwise unsafe.

Price of Sentis

The price of Sentis varies depending on dose and pharmacy, but, on average, it costs about $12,500-26,000 CLP ($19-41 USD) for 30 capsules. Thirty pills is a one-month supply if you take one pill per day, but the monthly cost doubles if your doctor prescribes 18.75 mg twice a day.

Here is the average price for 30 capsules of Sentis in Chile:

DoseCost in Pesos (CLP)Cost in Dollars (USD)
18.75 mg$12,500-14,800 CLP$19-23 USD
37.5 mg$21,200-26,000 CLP$32-41 USD

NOTE: These prices are only estimates and do not represent any guarantee or coupon. Last updated July 2018 ( 7 , 8 ).

Sentis Alternatives

Many people hear about Sentis and think they have finally discovered a miracle weight loss drug. However, these pills are far from perfect.

Some individuals may not be able to take Sentis due to health reasons, or they may not find it effective for weight loss. In these cases, it’s worth exploring alternative treatments for weight loss, both prescription and over-the-counter.

Prescription-Only

Phentermine is also available under different brand names, including:

In the United States, the FDA has also approved several other prescription weight loss medications if you prefer not to take them or can’t tolerate phentermine.

Talk to your doctor about Qsymia (a combination of phentermine and topiramate), Xenical (orlistat), or Wegovy.

Without a Prescription

If prescription weight loss drugs aren’t right for you, or if you can’t find a doctor to prescribe them, consider an over-the-counter weight loss supplement. Phentermine.com recommends Phen Caps as an effective and affordable option.

Phen Caps is an all-natural weight loss supplement that suppresses appetite and boosts energy to help you lose weight faster.

Sentis Reviews

Curious about real Sentis users’ stories?

Patients praise this pill’s ability to help them slim down quickly but often complain about negative side effects like insomnia, racing heart, and dry mouth.

Sentis has an average user rating of 4.4/5.

Here are some recent Sentis reviews:

Shani – Sentis X6mo
After almost 6 months of treatment with Sentis, I can say that I’m very happy with the results. 20 kilos and 4 dress sizes less. My metabolism is really slow, and with the pills, I felt like I burned more calories. I didn’t use other products during my treatment. Now I’m taking a break.


Daniela – I Beat My Goal
When they diagnosed me with insulin resistance, the doctor prescribed Terfamex for me to take early in the morning before I ate. So far, I’ve lost 15 kilos. I noticed that my mood has improved, and I feel a lot more alert. I can walk long distances, and my blood sugar is much better controlled.


Bruna – Lots Of Side Effects
Hi, I’m on my 4th month of treatment with Sentis 37.5; the side effects have been really strong, the pill worked great to suppress appetite, but it left me worn out, thirsty, with a terrible headache, and often unable to sleep. This worried me, but I’ve read that this happens to a lot of people.

Who Makes Sentis?

Sentis is manufactured by Laboratorios Chile, the largest laboratory in Chile and a subsidiary of TEVA Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

TEVA is a global leader in the pharmaceutical industry and the world’s largest producer of generic medication ( 10 ). 

Laboratorio Chile logo

The contact information for Laboratorios Chile is as follows: 

Laboratorios Chile
Oficinas Administrativas
Av. Marathon 1315, Ñuñoa, Chile
+56 2 2365 5000

If you have any concerns or issues related to Sentis, it may be worth reaching out to Laboratorios Chile or TEVA Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. for further assistance.

FAQs

Is Sentis available outside of Chile?

Sentis is primarily available in Chile. However, please consult a healthcare provider or a pharmacy in your location for the most recent information.

What should I do if I experience severe side effects while taking Sentis?

If you experience severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Serious side effects could include signs of an allergic reaction, chest pain, trouble breathing, or fainting.

Can I combine Sentis with alcohol or other recreational substances?

No, it’s not advisable to mix Sentis with alcohol or recreational substances. Such combinations can have adverse effects on your health and safety.

How long should I take Sentis for weight loss?

The duration for taking Sentis should be as prescribed by your doctor. It’s usually used short-term (a few weeks), in combination with exercise, behavior change, and a reduced-calorie diet program to help you lose weight.

Can Sentis be used as a long-term weight loss solution?

Sentis is usually prescribed for short-term use. Long-term use of phentermine-based medications can lead to dependence and should be avoided. Always consult your healthcare provider for long-term weight loss strategies.

Are there any known interactions between Sentis and other medications?

Yes, Sentis may interact with other medications, which can change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new drug.

Is it safe to buy Sentis online?

No, it is not safe to buy Sentis online. It is crucial to ensure that any medication you buy comes from a reputable source. Counterfeit medications can be harmful or ineffective. A safe choice would be a licensed pharmacy prescribed by your doctor.

How does the cost of Sentis compare to other phentermine-based weight loss pills?

Branded phentermine, such as Sentis, is usually more expensive than generic phentermine pills. Prices for medications can, however, vary widely depending on the location, insurance coverage, and the specific pharmacy.

Are there any alternatives if I am unable to take Sentis due to health reasons?

Yes, there are alternatives to Sentis for weight loss. Over-the-counter supplements like Phen Caps can be considered as they are designed to suppress appetite and boost energy, although individual results may vary.

How does Sentis affect sex drive and menstrual irregularities?

Sentis, much like all phentermine brands, can cause changes in libido and menstrual irregularities in some people. If you experience these or any other side effects, consult your healthcare provider.

Are there any non-prescription alternatives to Sentis?

Yes, non-prescription alternatives like Phen Caps can be considered for weight management. They are designed to suppress appetite and boost energy.

However, always remember that the effectiveness of weight loss supplements can vary from person to person and should be accompanied by lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.

References
  1. La Tercera. (2017, September 26). ISP alerta sobre aumento de consumo de fentermina durante los últimos 5 años.
  2. Laboratorio Chile. (n.d.). Productos: Sentis 37,5 mg.
  3. Behar, Rosa. (2002). Anorexígenos: indicaciones e interacciones. Revista chilena de neuro-psiquiatría, 40(2), 21-36.
  4. Members of “Losing Weight with Phentermine” Support Group on Facebook & Phentermine.com Forum. (2019, March 13). [User Report of Common Phentermine Side Effects]. Unpublished raw data.
  5. Cruz Verde. (2018). Buscador de Medicamentos: Sentis.
  6. Drugs.com. (2018, September 25). Phentermine and Alcohol / Food Interactions.
  7. Farmazon. (2018). Resultados de búsqueda para ‘sentis’.
  8. Salcobrand. (2018). Buscador de Precios.
  9. Farmacia-Online-Pharol. (2018). Farmacias en Pharol.
  10. Laboratorio Chile (2018) | TEVA. (n.d.). Laboratorio Chile.