Phentermine Post-Stroke: Is It Safe?

Phentermine is a prescription drug used to treat obesity. It is available as a brand-name drug called Adipex-P and as a generic drug. It is typically used in conjunction with exercise and a low-calorie diet to aid weight loss. However, it has been associated with several health risks and side effects, including valvular heart disease, pulmonary hypertension, and allergic reactions. People with a history of heart problems, including stroke, are advised not to take phentermine as it may increase the risk of another stroke.

• Heart valve damage
• Pulmonary hypertension
• Allergic reaction
• Trouble sleeping
• Psychosis
• Dependence | | Who should not take phentermine? | - People with cardiovascular disease or conditions affecting the heart and lungs
• People with a history of drug misuse
• Pregnant women |

Phentermine and the risk of stroke

Phentermine is a prescription drug used to treat obesity. It is typically prescribed for a few weeks to people who are very overweight or obese and have certain health risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. It is meant to be used alongside exercise and a low-calorie diet to aid in weight loss. Phentermine is a controlled substance, and its use is closely monitored by doctors.

Phentermine belongs to a class of drugs called anorectics, which help reduce appetite. It has a chemical structure similar to amphetamines, and its side effects may be comparable. Some commonly used anorectics, such as methamphetamine and phenylpropanolamine, have been associated with stroke.

There have been a few reports of a possible association between phentermine and ischemic stroke. In one case, a patient using phentermine developed ischemic cerebrovascular disease and suffered a cerebral infarct. In another case, a patient experienced a headache and a hemisensory disturbance lasting seven days. These cases suggest that phentermine may be associated with ischemic cerebrovascular disease.

However, a study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology in 1999 concluded that there is unlikely to be a substantial increased risk of stroke among users of phentermine. The study compared the incidence of stroke among users of three diet drugs, including phentermine, to that of obese non-users. The results showed a low incidence of stroke among current users of phentermine, with an incidence rate of 0/1000 person-years. The adjusted matched odds ratio for thrombotic stroke comparing current users of any of the diet drugs to non-users was 2.4, but this was based on a small number of cases.

Overall, while there have been some reports of a possible link between phentermine and stroke, the available research does not support a substantial increased risk. However, it is important to note that phentermine may be contraindicated for individuals with a history of heart problems, including stroke. Anyone who has had a stroke should consult their doctor before taking phentermine or any other medication.

Phentermine's side effects

Phentermine is a prescription drug used for weight reduction in patients with obesity. It is typically used in conjunction with a doctor-approved exercise routine, behaviour change, and a reduced-calorie diet program. It is meant to be used for a short period, usually 12 weeks or less, and is not recommended for children.

Phentermine has been associated with a range of side effects, some more common than others. The more common side effects include:

• A bad taste in the mouth
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Difficulty sleeping
• Irritability
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation

More serious side effects may include:

• Primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH), a rare lung disease that may be fatal
• Valvular heart disease, which may cause fatigue and weakness, shortness of breath, swollen ankles and feet, chest pain, and an irregular or fast heartbeat
• Allergic reaction, with symptoms such as swelling of the throat or tongue
• Increased blood pressure
• Serious heart or blood vessel problems, such as valvular heart disease
• Pulmonary hypertension
• Heart valve problems
• Stroke
• Subarachnoid hemorrhage
• Ventricular fibrillation
• Seizure
• Hallucinations
• Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Tremors (uncontrollable rhythmic movement)
• Insomnia (trouble sleeping)
• Erectile dysfunction
• Agitation
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Extreme fatigue

Phentermine may also interact with other medications, including certain drugs for weight loss, insulin and oral diabetes drugs, and MAO inhibitors. It is important to consult a doctor before taking phentermine, especially if there is a history of heart disease, including stroke, or other medical conditions.

Phentermine and heart failure

Phentermine is a prescription drug used to treat obesity. It is typically used in conjunction with exercise and a low-calorie diet to aid weight loss. It is only recommended for short-term use.

Phentermine can cause a range of side effects, including an increased heart rate and high blood pressure. It may also cause valvular heart disease, which involves damage to the heart valves, and pulmonary hypertension, a rare but often fatal condition. Due to these risks, people with cardiovascular disease or conditions affecting the heart and lungs should not take phentermine.

There is also a possible association between phentermine and ischemic stroke. One study identified two patients who developed ischemic cerebrovascular disease while taking phentermine. However, another study found that the incidence of stroke among current phentermine users was 0/1000 person-years, with an upper confidence limit of 12.9. The study concluded that there is unlikely to be a substantial increased risk of stroke attributable to phentermine use.

Overall, while phentermine may cause heart-related side effects, the risk of stroke attributable to phentermine use is uncertain. It is important to consult with a doctor to weigh the benefits and risks of taking phentermine.

Phentermine and pregnancy

Phentermine is a prescription drug used to treat obesity. It is not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified phentermine as a "Pregnancy Category X" drug, which means studies have shown it to have adverse effects on the developing foetus. The risks of taking this medication are believed to outweigh the potential benefits.

Phentermine is not advised for pregnant women because weight loss does not benefit pregnant women and may harm the foetus or cause pregnancy complications. It is also unknown how phentermine affects a developing baby or pregnant women.

Phentermine may also cause an increased risk of gestational diabetes, which can cause health complications for pregnant women, including:

• High blood pressure
• Preeclampsia
• Adult-onset diabetes later in life

Additionally, weight loss during pregnancy is generally not recommended. Research has shown that 8% of pregnant women attempt to lose weight, which can put the baby at risk for health complications, including:

• Being small for its gestational age
• Low blood sugar
• Difficulty breathing
• Dying in the first year of life
• Disabilities
• Neural tube defects

Phentermine is also believed to be passed through breast milk and is not recommended for women who are breastfeeding.

Phentermine and alcohol

Phentermine is a prescription drug used to treat obesity. It is a controlled substance, meaning its use is closely monitored by doctors. It is typically used alongside exercise and a low-calorie diet to aid in weight loss.

Phentermine is a central nervous system stimulant that increases heart rate and blood pressure and reduces appetite. It is available as a brand-name drug, Adipex-P, and as a generic drug.

Consuming alcohol while taking phentermine can increase the risk of certain side effects, including:

• Cardiovascular problems: Increased heart rate, abnormal increases in blood pressure, and heart failure (if there is an underlying condition such as heart disease).
• Central nervous system issues: Difficulty concentrating, dizziness, drowsiness, and depression.
• Gastrointestinal problems: Alcohol irritates the stomach lining, causing issues in the gastrointestinal system.

It is recommended to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking phentermine. If alcohol is consumed, it is important to wait at least 12 hours after taking phentermine, as its effects can last that long. Additionally, activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, should be avoided until you know how the combination of phentermine and alcohol affects you.

Phentermine and Stroke

There have been reports of a possible association between phentermine and ischemic stroke. However, one study concluded that there is unlikely to be a substantial increased risk of stroke attributable to phentermine use. Nonetheless, individuals with a history of stroke are advised not to take phentermine, as it may cause a serious increase in blood pressure, putting extra stress on the heart and worsening heart disease.

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