If you’re consistently dieting and doing the newest, trendy exercises but have not successfully lost weight, weight loss medications like phentermine can greatly help you. At NP2GO, we provide a safe, efficient, and expertly developed phentermine program in Oklahoma to help you reach your weight goals.
However, like any other medication, phentermine for weight loss may have some side effects. This article will discuss everything you need to know about phentermine, including how it works, how it helps you lose weight, its potential side effects, and where you can get it in Oklahoma.
What Is Phentermine?
Phentermine is an appetite and weight loss prescription medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1959 for short-term use by people with obesity 17 years or older.
Phentermine’s available brand names are Adipex-P, Lomaira, and Suprenza. It can also be found in weight-loss combination drugs like Qsymia, which contain phentermine and topiramate.
Like amphetamine, phentermine is a stimulant that you can only get with a prescription. And since it has the potential for addiction, it is considered a controlled substance.
Phentermine is prescribed if you have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher (obesity) or a BMI of 27 or higher (overweight) with at least one weight-related medical condition, such as high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, or high blood pressure.
Phentermine is used in combination with diet and exercise.
How Does Phentermine Work for Weight Loss?
Phentermine belongs to a class of drugs known as anorectics, meaning it is an appetite suppressant. It promotes weight loss by suppressing appetite, reducing the number of calories consumed. Fewer calories cause weight loss over time.
While researchers are not sure how phentermine reduces appetite, they believe it acts on the hypothalamus, a region of the brain that controls hunger. It stimulates the release of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin, which, when they’re high, help reduce feelings of hunger. This may help you resist food cravings and adhere to a calorie-restricted diet.
How Much Weight Will You Lose on Phentermine?
Various clinical trials have proved that phentermine can promote significant weight loss.
While the FDA only approved phentermine for short-term use of less than 12 weeks, healthcare providers prescribe phentermine off-label for longer usage.
They may prescribe it intermittently, meaning you stop taking it for a certain period and then start taking it again.
On average, patients can expect to lose between 5% to 7% of their body weight within the first six months of using phentermine. For example, if you weigh 200 pounds, a 5% weight loss would be 10 pounds, while a 7% weight loss would be 14 pounds. Some people may experience even more weight loss, especially when combining phentermine with a well-structured weight loss plan.
Who Can Take Phentermine?
Phentermine is prescribed to people with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater (obesity) or those with a BMI of 27 or greater who also have weight-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea.
BMI, however, is not a perfect instrument and could not be a reliable indicator of your health. Therefore, the health providers at NP2GO may choose to prescribe phentermine even if you do not fit into one of these allowed categories.
It’s important to note that phentermine is designed to work along with a balanced diet and regular physical activity. A calorie deficit created through healthy eating habits and increased exercise can lead to more weight loss results.
Who should not take phentermine?
While phentermine can be an effective weight loss medication for many, it is not suitable for everyone. It’s not prescribed if you have certain health conditions, including:
- Cardiovascular Issues
- Hyperthyroidism
- Glaucoma
- Anxiety disorders
- History of substance use disorders
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
- Allergic reactions
Phentermine can also have drug interactions with some medications. If you’re taking medications like monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), avoid phentermine, as the interactions can lead to serious side effects like dangerously high blood pressure.
What Are the Phentermine Dosages?
Phentermine comes in three forms: oral tablets, capsules, and ODT. Almost all forms are typically taken once daily, with or without food. It’s recommended to take your dose in the morning since taking it in the evening may leave you awake at bedtime. Lomaira is taken 3 times a day before meals. In this situation, try to take your last dose earlier in the evening to prevent sleeplessness.
Oral tablets
- Adipex-P and generic (37.5 mg tablets): The usual dosage is 37.5 mg taken orally once a day, either before breakfast or one to two hours after breakfast. Based on your specific needs, this dosage may be changed to 18.75 mg (½ pill) once or twice a day.
- Lomaira (8 mg tablets): The usual dosage is 8 mg taken orally three times a day, 30 minutes before meals. Some patients may only require 4 mg (½ tablet) at any or all of their dose times.
Oral capsules
- Adipex-P and generic (37.5 mg capsules): The usual dose is 37.5 mg taken orally once a day, either before breakfast or one to 2 hours after breakfast.
- Generic (15 mg and 30 mg capsules): The usual dosage is 15 mg to 30 mg, taken once a day, 2 hours after breakfast.
Orally disintegrating tablets (ODT)
- Generic (15 mg, 30 mg, and 37.5 mg ODTs): The usual dosage is one ODT dissolved on top of the tongue daily in the morning. Before taking ODT, ensure your hands are dry. To dissolve the tablet, place it directly on top of the tongue. After it dissolves, drink it with or without water.
How to Use Phentermine?
To use phentermine, take it with a glass of water and swallow the tablet whole. If using extended-release capsules, avoid crushing, breaking, or chewing them, as this can cause the medication to release too quickly, increasing side effects. For orally disintegrating tablets, handle them with dry hands and place them directly on your tongue, where they dissolve quickly without water.
Phentermine is typically taken before breakfast or 1-2 hours after breakfast, but your doctor may provide specific timing instructions. Since phentermine can cause sleeplessness, try to avoid taking it later in the day. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember—unless it’s nearly time for the next one. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never double up on doses to make up for one you missed.
Store phentermine at room temperature, away from moisture and heat, and always keep it out of reach of children and pets. Also, talk to your doctor before stopping phentermine. Abruptly discontinuing can lead to withdrawal symptoms like fatigue, tremors, or mood changes, so your doctor may advise a gradual reduction to avoid these issues.
How Much Does Phentermine Cost in Oklahoma?
The cost of phentermine in Oklahoma can vary depending on the form and strength of the medication, whether it’s generic or brand-name, and whether you have insurance.
At NP2GO, the cost for a weight loss visit, including the option to add phentermine, starts at $99 every 3 months. Since phentermine is a controlled medication, it requires an initial in-office visit once a year, followed by convenient virtual follow-ups every three months.
Many insurance companies do not cover weight loss medications, and those that cover require prior authorization. Contact your insurance company directly to know if your plan covers phentermine. If they do, our NP2GO team will help you complete the prior authorization form and submit it for approval.
If your insurance covers phentermine, you can get it for free or purchase it at $20 per month from your pharmacy.
What Are Phentermine’s Side Effects?
Like Zepbound or Wegovy, phentermine may have side effects. Common side effects include dry mouth, a bad taste in the mouth, insomnia, dizziness, and a rapid heart rate. Some people may experience mood changes, restlessness, or gastrointestinal issues like constipation, diarrhea, and vomiting.
More serious side effects are rare but could include increased blood pressure, heart palpitations, or shortness of breath. If you notice any severe symptoms, contact your healthcare provider right away.
How long can you take phentermine?
Phentermine is prescribed for short-term use up to 12 weeks or less. This is because when it was first approved, there was no evidence that it was safe to take over the long term. However, more recent research shows that using phentermine for longer than 3 months is safe and promotes more weight loss.
At NP2GO, we’ll help you determine how long to take phentermine with regular follow-ups to assess your progress and health status.
FAQs About Phentermine In Oklahoma
Does phentermine work for weight loss?
Yes, studies have shown that phentermine is effective for weight loss. It works by suppressing appetite, which helps reduce calorie intake. When combined with a doctor-approved diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes, phentermine can support weight loss for people with obesity.
What happens if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of phentermine, take it as soon as you remember. But, if it’s close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Avoid taking two doses at the same time.
Can phentermine be taken with other medications?
Phentermine may interact with other medications. Inform your healthcare provider about all the drugs and supplements you’re taking. Avoid combining phentermine with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or other weight loss medications unless directed by your doctor.
Where can I get phentermine in Oklahoma?
You can get phentermine in Oklahoma through NP2GO. We offer a comprehensive weight loss program, including an initial in-office consultation, followed by virtual follow-ups every three months. During your visit, our healthcare providers will evaluate your needs and provide a personalized phentermine prescription, if you’re eligible.
Get Phentermine Weight Loss Medication In Oklahoma with NP2GO
If you’re ready to take the next step toward your weight loss journey, NP2GO is here to support you with our professional phentermine program in Oklahoma. Our dedicated team will guide you through the process, ensuring you have the resources and support to achieve your weight loss goals. With virtual consultations and personalized care, we’re committed to helping you succeed.
Schedule your consultation today and start your weight loss journey with phentermine today!