Monday, July 19, 2010

What Are Adipex & Phentermine

Adipex is the brand name for phentermine. Adipex is manufactured by Gate Pharmaceuticals, while the generic phentermine, is available from a number of manufacturers. It is a prescription medication given for weight loss. While an effective tool for weight loss, there are risks associated with taking this medication. It is important not to take this medication if it was not prescribed for you, and you should not share your prescription with anyone else.


Function








Adipex works on the central nervous system to suppress the appetite. As a stimulant, it works in a similar way as amphetamine drugs and can have similar side effects. It is the similarity between phentermine and amphetamines that lead many people to experience the increased energy and difficulty sleeping that are common side effects of taking this diet pill. The increased energy that is common for phentermine users can help with weight loss, as many people find it easier to start or maintain an exercise program while taking them.


Types


Adipex is available as a 37.5-mg capsule and a 30-mg capsule. The 30-mg capsule is sold under the name Fastin. Generic phentermine is available in both dosages as well. Most doctors will prescribe the less expensive generic form of this pill. If you have concerns about the effectiveness of phentermine compared to Adipex, talk to your physician when he writes your prescription. Some doctors prescribe Prozac, an antidepressant, along with phentermine. If you have never taken Prozac before, you may want to talk to your doctor about starting with only one or the other, so that if one of the medications doesn't agree with you, it is easy to determine the problem.


Effects








People who diet while taking phentermine typically have an accelerated rate of weight loss. Adipex and phentermine work by dampening appetite, not by increasing metabolism. People who eat for emotional reasons or who have binge eating disorders may still have trouble losing weight while taking these pills. Phentermine is most effective when combined with a low-calorie diet and an exercise program. To optimize the effects of phentermine, drink plenty of water and take the pill early in the morning, about 30 minutes before breakfast.


Benefits


Phentermine and Adipex do aid in weight loss. Although there is no magic pill that will cause you to lose weight, these diet pills are effective helpers. Weight loss is dependent on eating fewer calories than you burn each day. Phentermine and Adipex help dull hunger and cravings, which reduces the number of calories consumed. They also increase energy levels, making it easier to stick with an exercise program. The benefits of Adipex do decrease over time. If you have a lot of weight to lose, talk to your doctor about taking periodic breaks from the medication. This will help reduce the likelihood of your body building up a resistance to the medication.


Warning


There are potentially dangerous side effects to Adipex and phentermine. It may be habit forming, so it is important to take only under the supervision of a physician. This medication can also lead to shortness of breath, chest pains and headaches. If you experience any of these side effects, immediately quit taking the medication and contact your physician. Milder side effects include dry mouth, constipation and skin problems. Finally, if you are on any other medications, it is important to tell your physician before you begin taking phentermine or Adipex. These pills can react negatively with a number of other types of medications.

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