Phentermine is probably the most common weight loss drug in the world. It amounts to almost half of all prescribed drugs in this category in some countries.
However, you should always keep in mind that it is not recommended for regular use.
The reason for this is the fact that:
- Phentermine negatively affects the cardiovascular system and can raise blood pressure;
- it can cause addiction;
- Phentermine becomes less effective as the body adapts to the drug.
Thus, doctors recommend taking Phentermine for a limited period of time and then taking a break. Doctors most commonly prescribe a 12-week course, which is followed by a 4-week break. Eventually, the doctor may prescribe another 12-week course if he or she deems it necessary.
Phentermine withdrawal
Phentermine treatment should be supervised by a doctor. With a 12-week course, the doctor usually suggests that a person come for a check-up once a month or every two weeks.
These appointments are necessary to ensure that:
- the patient is losing weight at his planned pace;
- the patient is not experiencing any side effects or any other problems.
Should any symptoms of Phentermine withdrawal or any other discomfort arise after coming off Phentermine, the doctor advises you to contact him or her immediately.
If the course was taken under constant medical supervision, stopping the Phentermine treatment does not usually cause any problems.
One study states that the termination of the therapeutic effect is the cause of the discomfort sometimes felt when the treatment ends. The study says that the discomfort is not related to withdrawal syndrome.
What happens if you stop taking Phentermine suddenly
Doctors advise against suddenly stopping the Phentermine course. If you abruptly stop taking it, you may experience the following withdrawal symptoms:
- depression;
- insomnia;
- headaches;
- abdominal pain;
- diarrhea;
- vomiting;
- menstrual disorders;
- loss of strength, severe fatigue.
The likelihood of withdrawal syndrome increases if a person has been taking Phentermine for a long time or in high doses.
Can I stop taking Phentermine suddenly? Doctors usually recommend reducing the dose gradually to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
There is another point of view on this topic. A study was published in the International Journal of Obesity. It reports that the study participants who abruptly stopped taking Phentermine after a long period of use did not experience psychological cravings or a withdrawal syndrome. The only symptom they reported was an increase in appetite.
How long does Phentermine withdrawal last
This largely depends on the individual characteristics of the body. The Phentermine withdrawal timeline is three to five days on average. The person’s well-being improves after that period of time.
Long-term withdrawal symptoms, such as depression or fatigue, may persist for weeks or even months after stopping Phentermine treatment.
How to wean off Phentermine without gaining weight
Keep in mind that Phentermine only aids the process of losing excess weight. The answer to the question of how to stop taking Phentermine and not gain weight is to lead a healthy lifestyle. If a correct diet and regular physical activity do not become your permanent habits, you may regain the pounds you lost.
Conclusion
The standard treatment regimen for Phentermine is described below:
- a 12-week course;
- a 4-week break;
- a new 12-week course (if the doctor decides it is needed).
You must take breaks from taking the drug, or the body will get used to it, and the treatment will lose effectiveness.
The main point is that the Phentermine course combined with a diet should help you change your entire lifestyle. Because of that, you will not regain lost pounds, and your quality of life will significantly improve.
