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: Sympathomimetic amine
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 from August 2021 to August 2023 among US adults was
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 type of medication called 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
Who Phentermine Is (and Isn’t) For
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 to 29 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 is not prescribed if there is a known allergy to it or hypersensitivity to sympathomimetic amines, to which this medication belongs. It may not be safe to take phentermine if a person has certain health conditions, including but not limited to heart problems, a history of abusing substances, or thyroid problems.
How to Get Phentermine Online
To get prescribed phentermine online at MEDvidi, you should take the following steps:
Step 1. Sign up
Register an account. Fill out the necessary forms and check out the prerequisites for weight loss consultations, such as specific lab tests.
Step 2. 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.
Step 3. 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.
Step 4. 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
In most states, you can get a prescription for phentermine by seeing a healthcare provider in person or virtually via telehealth.
Medical providers at MEDvidi are licensed to prescribe phentermine online in 33 states:
Phentermine Dosage & How to Take It
The exact dosage of phentermine will be individualized based on how each person responds to the medication. The usual dose is 37.5 mg per day.
Phentermine should be taken once per day, either before breakfast or 1 to 2 hours after breakfast to help control appetite. Phentermine should not be taken in the evening because it is possible that it can cause insomnia (trouble sleeping).
It’s important to take phentermine as directed. This means that you should not take more medication or double your dose without first talking with your healthcare provider. If you miss a dose, you can take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose as scheduled.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Common side effects of phentermine include:
- High blood pressure
- Headaches
- Insomnia (trouble sleeping)
- 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 high blood pressure 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
- Glaucoma
- Hyperthyroidism
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- History of drug or alcohol 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 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 has been discontinued. Lomaira, another brand version of phentermine, is available and costs from around $18 to $45.
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. You can also ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider if there are discount cards available to lower the cost.
Alternative Weight Loss Medications
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 a medication that has both phentermine and topiramate, known as the brand name Qsymia. It is also approved to treat obesity and has proven effective in weight reduction.
Other common weight loss medications include:
- GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Wegovy (semaglutide), and Saxenda (liraglutide)
- GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists, such as Zepbound (tirzepatide)
- Contrave (bupropion/naltrexone)
GLP-1 medications are often available in the injectable form and typically come at a higher cost compared to phentermine. They also have different indications, side effects and contraindications, but may be more appropriate for some people. A healthcare provider can choose the most appropriate alternative only after a detailed health assessment.
But is medication the only solution? If you may not be prescribed weight loss medicine 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.
Preparing for Your Visit: What to Ask About Phentermine?
Here are examples of questions you can ask your healthcare provider before starting phentermine.
- Goals and expectations
- 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?
- Safety and risks
- Can any medications I am taking or any underlying health conditions affect my weight or the course of weight loss?
- 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?
- Lifestyle and support
- What lifestyle changes can help me support the effects of phentermine?
- Alternatives and next steps
- What other weight loss medications can I consider if this one isn’t working for me?
- What do I need to do in order to start taking phentermine?
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. You should also share your complete medical history and any over-the-counter or prescription medications, supplements, or herbs you are taking so your healthcare provider can ensure phentermine is safe for you.
Why Choose MEDvidi?
MEDvidi is here to help if you are looking for evidence-based weight control options in a non-judgmental environment. You can connect with an experienced healthcare provider licensed in your state and get ongoing support, from an initial assessment to online medication management of phentermine or other medications.
Book your appointment, including same-day and next-day time slots, to receive a personalized weight loss plan online. MEDvidi can also support you with ongoing virtual follow-ups and continued medication management to help find what works for you.
Initial appointment
$195
(Lower than traditional care)
- An online 30-minute visit
- Diagnosis check
- Identifying treatment goals
- Developing a treatment plan
- Prescribing medications if necessary
Follow-ups
$159
(Optimal and cost-effective)
- Regular 15-minute visits
- Symptoms monitoring
- Prescription refills
- Treatment adjustments
- Working on thinking and behavioral changes
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?
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 a healthcare provider online under the brand names Adipex-P and Lomaira. Adipex-P is no longer being made, but the generic form is. It 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.
Do you need a prescription for phentermine?
Yes, you need a prescription for phentermine. It is only available by prescription, and in order to obtain it, you need to be evaluated by and have ongoing care with a healthcare provider. MEDvidi can help to connect you with a qualified provider experienced in weight loss 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?
Can I get Adipex-P prescribed online?
Yes, it is possible to get Adipex-P prescribed online as generic phentermine. Adipex-P is a brand name of phentermine. There has been increased demand for weight loss medications, which has led to shortages of some medications. Note that as of June 2025, the brand name Adipex-P has been discontinued by the drug manufacturer but you can still get generic phentermine.
