Their inclusion does not guarantee they will be prescribed to any individual, as treatment decisions are ultimately at the discretion of healthcare providers. Healthcare providers may prescribe other medications or recommend non-pharmacological treatment based on the patient’s unique health circumstances and needs.
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Highlights
- Phentermine (Lomaira, Adipex-P) is a prescription medication for obesity treatment.
- To get prescribed phentermine online, it’s necessary to see a licensed healthcare provider who can conduct a detailed health assessment and revise lab tests.
- Phentermine has several contraindications, precautions, and side effects, which must be discussed before starting treatment. In some cases, a healthcare provider may choose an alternative solution for weight loss management.
Brand name: Lomaira, Adipex-P
Generic name: Phentermine
Drug class: Stimulant
Dosage forms: Tablets, capsules
FDA-approved uses: Treatment of obesity
Obesity is a growing problem, with more and more people struggling to maintain a healthy weight. A survey shows that the prevalence of obesity among US adults is
Patients seeking medication to assist with their weight loss have various options available, such as phentermine. With the rise of telemedicine, it is possible to get prescribed phentermine through an online weight loss clinic. However, this medication has specific eligibility requirements, so you have to undergo a medical evaluation by a healthcare provider first. Let’s review the steps to take to get a phentermine prescription online and how to use it safely.
What Is Phentermine
Phentermine (phentermine hydrochloride) is a sympathomimetic amine. It works in multiple ways in the body, mainly by increasing the concentration of specific chemicals in the brain. This can reduce appetite, leading to healthy calorie restriction, and raises leptin levels, which boosts satiety (feeling full). These effects can contribute to weight loss.
One thing to remember is that phentermine should only be
Do You Need a Prescription for Phentermine?
How to Get an Online Phentermine Prescription?
To get prescribed phentermine online at MEDvidi, you should take the following steps:
- Sign up: Register an account, fill out the necessary forms, and check out the prerequisites for weight loss consultations, such as specific lab tests.
- Book an appointment: Schedule an online appointment with a healthcare provider experienced in weight loss management. They will assess your health status, BMI, medical history, the results of lab tests, and previous weight loss attempts to create a proper strategy.
- Receive a prescription: Following a comprehensive evaluation, your healthcare provider may prescribe you phentermine online. In this case, they will tell you how to use it, what its positive effects and potential side effects are, and share additional instructions. Then, they forward your prescription digitally to an authorized pharmacy.
- Get ongoing support: Plan follow-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to phentermine, consult on possible side effects, get additional recommendations, and adjust your weight loss plan if needed.
Note that booking an appointment doesn’t guarantee obtaining a prescription. The decision is at the discretion of your healthcare provider.
Who Can Prescribe Phentermine?
To get a prescription for phentermine, you have to first go through an assessment to check your eligibility criteria. Depending on the state, the list of healthcare providers who can conduct such assessments and prescribe phentermine may vary. Generally, they include the following:
- Primary care physicians
- Endocrinologists
- Bariatricians
- Psychiatrists
- Nurse practitioners
- Physician assistants
California (CA), Colorado (CO), Florida (FL), Georgia (GA), Idaho (ID), Illinois (IL), Indiana (IN), Kentucky (KY), Maine (ME), Michigan (MI), Minnesota (MN), Nebraska (NE), New Mexico (NM), New York (NY), North Carolina (NC), Ohio (OH), Kansas (KS), Oregon (OR), Pennsylvania (PA), Tennessee (TN), Texas (TX), Virginia (VA), Vermont (VT), Washington (WA), Wisconsin (WI), Wyoming (WY).
Eligibility Requirements for Phentermine
Phentermine is prescribed to patients with a particular BMI (
- A BMI of 30 and higher is considered obesity and qualifies a person for a phentermine prescription (unless there are contraindications).
- A BMI of 27 falls under the “overweight” category. However, a person with a BMI of 27 or higher may also be prescribed phentermine if they have weight-related health conditions. These include, for example, diabetes and hypertension (high blood pressure).
BMI is not the only factor: a healthcare provider also assesses general health history. This helps to identify any risk factors.
Phentermine Cost
The retail price of phentermine (30 tablets of 37.5 mg) varies from $10 to $70, depending on the pharmacy you choose. With coupons, such as the ones from GoodRx, the average cost is around $15 to $20 for the same supply.
Brand medication Adipex-P is currently available at approximately $90 to $111; note that this medication is going to be
When it comes to insurance, most insurance plans do not cover phentermine but there may be exceptions. If your insurer requires prior authorization to cover the cost of phentermine, medical professionals at MEDvidi can provide you with the necessary documentation.
What to Ask a Doctor About Phentermine?
- Can phentermine help me achieve my weight loss goal? How long can it take? What can influence the effectiveness of my weight loss process?
- Should I go through additional tests and assessments to determine the cause of weight gain?
- Can any medications I am taking or any underlying health conditions affect my weight or the course of weight loss?
- What lifestyle changes can help me support the effects of phentermine?
- What are the most common and rare side effects of this medication? Which of them go away on their own and which require medical attention?
- What should I know about contraindications and precautions?
- What other weight loss medications can I consider if this one isn’t working for me?
If you have had previous attempts to lose weight, share this experience with your healthcare provider. Together, you will analyze what worked well for you and what didn’t bring the desired effects, what can be done differently this time, and other helpful details.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Common side effects of phentermine include:
- High blood pressure
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Restlessness
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth or unpleasant taste
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
Serious Side Effects
If you have an allergic reaction to the medication, seek medical help immediately. The symptoms include swelling of the face and throat, difficulty breathing, hives, and itching.
There are also other serious side effects that require medical attention. See a clinician if you experience any of the following and inform them about using phentermine:
- Severe hypertension or a pounding heart
- Severe shortness of breath and a dangerous condition called pulmonary hypertension
- Tremors and prolonged insomnia
- Swelling in the legs and feet
- Chest pain and lightheadedness
- Severe heart problems
The lists of side effects discussed above may not be inclusive; consult your healthcare provider to learn more.
Contraindications and Precautions
Phentermine is not prescribed if there is a known allergy to it or hypersensitivity to sympathomimetic amines, to which this medication belongs. Other
- History of cardiovascular issues
- History of drug abuse
- Glaucoma
- Hyperthyroidism
- Pregnancy
- Nursing
- Alcohol use
- History of abuse or dependence on medication or substances
Phentermine can impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. Also, prolonged use increases the risks of tolerance and dependence, so it’s important to monitor their signs.
Phentermine should be used with caution in people with a history of mental health conditions, and its dosage should be adjusted for people who have problems with kidneys.
When it comes to interactions, phentermine should not be used together with other weight loss medications. There must also be a gap of at least 14 days between stopping MAOIs (a type of antidepressant medications) and starting phentermine. It can also interact with some antipsychotics, antidiabetic medicines, and over-the-counter and herbal supplements, so it’s essential to discuss any medications you are taking beforehand.
Phentermine Alternatives
Although phentermine is commonly prescribed for weight loss, it is intended only for short-term use. So, those who need continuing obesity management should consider an alternative because there is
The closest alternative to phentermine is phentermine/topiramate (brand name Qsymia). According to a
Other common weight loss medications include:
- Wegovy (semaglutide)
- Zepbound (tirzepatide)
- Ozempic (semaglutide)
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
- Saxenda (liraglutide)
- Contrave (bupropion/naltrexone)
A healthcare provider can choose the most appropriate alternative after a detailed health assessment.
But is medication the only solution? If you may not be prescribed weight loss medication for any reason, your physician can help you create a personalized weight loss plan based on non-pharmacological options. These may include optimized caloric intake, increased physical activity, behavioral training, and other elements chosen right for you.
Summing Up
Phentermine can be a helpful element in your weight loss plan. But you have to follow your clinician’s instructions while taking it, such as never increasing the prescribed dosage, discussing the best time to take it (for example, taking it in the morning can help avoid sleep problems), and promptly reporting serious side effects.
Also, note that phentermine should only be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise, which contribute to sustainable results. Healthcare providers at MEDvidi are here to assess your health status and choose a weight loss plan that will suit you best.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is phentermine?
Phentermine is a prescription weight loss medication used to suppress appetite. It belongs to the group of medications known as sympathomimetic amines that stimulate the central nervous system to lessen appetite and boost energy expenditure. To assist those who are overweight or obese in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, phentermine should be used in conjunction with a nutritious diet and regular exercise.
How does phentermine work for weight loss?
Phentermine stimulates the release of neurotransmitters in the brain, including norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin. As a result, people have reduced appetite and feel more energized, which can help them consume fewer calories and burn more calories through physical activity. These effects can aid in weight loss.
What are common brand names of phentermine?
You can get phentermine from an online doctor under the brand names Adipex-P and Lomaira. Adipex-P comes in tablet and capsule form while Lomaira is available as a tablet. In addition, there is a medication Qsymia — a mix of phentermine and topiramate prescribed to adults for long-term weight management.
Can I get phentermine prescribed online?
Licensed healthcare providers at MEDvidi can prescribe phentermine online based on a detailed health assessment. You can get prescribed phentermine online only after having an appointment with a healthcare provider and only if this medication is deemed appropriate for you. Booking an appointment does not guarantee receiving a prescription as the final decision is at the discretion of your provider.
Can I be prescribed phentermine while on Suboxone treatment?
There is limited information about interactions between phentermine and Suboxone. However, phentermine has the potential for misuse. So, because of safety concerns, patients taking Suboxone must provide a letter from their clinician indicating that it is safe and appropriate for them to receive a prescription for phentermine at the same time. If you are currently taking or weaning off Suboxone, healthcare providers at MEDvidi can consider prescribing you phentermine only after obtaining the above-mentioned letter.
Do doctors still prescribe phentermine for weight loss?
Yes, phentermine is a commonly prescribed medication for weight loss. However, it may not suit everyone because of certain contraindications and precautions. Consult a healthcare provider to find out if phentermine is the most suitable option for you.
Why won't my doctor prescribe phentermine?
How can I get phentermine without going to a doctor?
Phentermine is a prescription medication and a Schedule IV controlled substance, so you can obtain it only by prescription from a licensed physician. You can see a healthcare provider online, for example, through telehealth platforms like MEDvidi, to have a detailed assessment and receive an online prescription if deemed appropriate.
