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Generic Name: Phentermine
Brand Name: Ionamin
(fen' ter meen)
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Why is phentermine prescribed?
Ionamin (Phentermine) is used, in combination with diet and exercise, to help you lose weight. It works by decreasing your appetite.
Ionamin is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
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How should phentermine be used properly?
Phentermine (Ionamin) comes in tablets and extended-release capsules. It usually is taken as a single daily dose in the morning or three times a day 30 minutes before meals. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take phentermine exactly as directed.
Most people take the drug for 3-6 weeks; the length of treatment depends on how you respond to the medication. Phentermine can be habit-forming. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer period than your doctor tells you to.
To prevent side effects, phentermine should be taken with meals. If you are taking an extended-release (long-acting) product, do not chew or crush the tablet. There are some tablets that can be crushed and mixed with food.
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What special precautions should I follow when using phentermine?
Before taking Ionamin,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to phentermine or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially fluoxetine (Prozac), fluvoxamine (Luvox), guanethidine, insulin, MAO inhibitors [phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate)] even if you stopped taking them within the past 2 weeks, medications for weight loss and depression, paroxetine (Paxil), sertraline (Zoloft),and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart disease, high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries), hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland), diabetes, glaucoma, or a history of drug abuse.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking phentermine, call your doctor.
- you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
- remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.
- if you have diabetes, you may need a larger dose of insulin while taking phentermine. Call your doctor if you have questions or problems.
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What special dietary instructions should I follow while taking phentermine?
Follow the diet and exercise program your doctor has given you. Ionamin will work best in combination with your diet program.
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What should I do if I forget a dose of phentermine?
You should take the missed dose of phentermine just as soon as you remember to take it. Unless, it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose of your medication to make up for a missed one.
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What side effects can phentermine cause?
Although side effects from phentermine are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- unpleasant taste
- constipation
- dry mouth
- vomiting
- diarrhea
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- difficulty doing exercise that you have been able to do
- increased blood pressure
- shortness of breath
- heart palpitations
- restlessness
- chest pain
- dizziness
- insomnia
- tremor
» topWhat storage conditions are needed for phentermine?
Always keep the phentermine in the same container it came in. Make sure it is tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store this medication at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture; do not store this medication in the bathroom.
Always be sure to dispose of any medication that is no longer needed or outdated. Be sure to ask your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
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What do I do in case of emergency or a phentermine overdose?
In case of a phentermine overdose, be sure to call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim is not breathing or has collapsed, dial 911 for local emergency services.
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What other information should I know about phentermine?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to ionamin.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
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This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general guidelines only; please follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made every effort to ensure that this information is accurate, but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination, is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.
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