
Phentermine is a prescription drug used for weight loss in obese or overweight people with certain health risk factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. It is typically used for short-term treatment. However, there have been concerns about the possible side effects of the drug, including an increased risk of stroke. While some studies suggest a potential link between phentermine use and stroke, particularly with long-term use, more research is needed to establish a definitive connection. People with a history of stroke or other cardiovascular issues are generally advised not to take phentermine due to the potential risks.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Can phentermine cause strokes? | There is a possible association between phentermine and ischemic strokes. However, one study found no substantial increased risk of stroke attributable to phentermine use. |
What is phentermine used for? | Phentermine is used short-term to help with weight loss in people who are overweight or have obesity. |
Who should not take phentermine? | People who have had a stroke, or who have certain heart problems, such as coronary artery disease, abnormal heart rhythm, or uncontrolled high blood pressure, should not take phentermine. |
What You'll Learn
Phentermine and the risk of stroke
Phentermine is a brain and spinal cord stimulant medication often used as a weight-loss drug. It is an appetite suppressant, meaning it can reduce hunger. However, it has been linked to some adverse side effects, particularly concerning the heart and cardiovascular system. This has raised concerns about the possibility of an increased risk of stroke among phentermine users.
Case Studies
A possible association between phentermine and ischemic stroke was first reported in 1993 by J Kokkinos and S R Levine. They described two patients who, while using phentermine, developed ischemic cerebrovascular disease. One of the patients suffered a cerebral infarct, while the other experienced a headache and a hemisensory disturbance lasting seven days.
Studies on Phentermine and Stroke Risk
A 1999 cohort study by Laura E Derby, Marian W Myers, and Hershel Jick investigated the risk of stroke among users of three diet drugs: fenfluramine, dexfenfluramine, and phentermine. They compared the incidence of stroke in users of these drugs to that of obese non-users. The study found a slightly elevated risk of thrombotic stroke among current users of any of the three drugs, with an odds ratio of 2.4 (95% CI 0.6, 9.1). However, this result was based on only three exposed cases, and the confidence intervals were wide. The study concluded that there was no substantial increased risk of stroke attributable to the use of fenfluramine, dexfenfluramine, or phentermine.
Another study by RTI Health Solutions in 2019 assessed the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), including hospitalization for acute myocardial infarction and stroke, among patients using phentermine and topiramate, an oral medication indicated for weight management. The study found that the incidence rates of MACE among current users of phentermine and topiramate were lower than those among unexposed former users. However, the number of events was small, and the confidence intervals were wide.
Overall Risk Assessment
While there have been reports of an association between phentermine use and stroke, the available studies suggest that there is unlikely to be a substantial increased risk of stroke among phentermine users. However, it is important to note that people with cardiovascular disease or conditions affecting the heart and lungs should not take phentermine due to its potential side effects.
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Phentermine's effect on the heart
Phentermine is a brain and spinal cord stimulant medication that suppresses a person's appetite, making it popular as a weight-loss drug. It is approved for short-term obesity treatment in conjunction with lifestyle modifications.
Phentermine has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular issues. It is known to cause palpitations, mild tachycardia, and elevated blood pressure. It is also associated with rare reports of valvular heart disease and pulmonary hypertension, which can be fatal.
Phentermine is contraindicated for people with a history of cardiovascular disease, including coronary artery disease, stroke, arrhythmias, congestive heart failure, and uncontrolled hypertension.
When combined with topiramate, an antiseizure drug, phentermine may increase the resting heart rate by up to 20 beats per minute. This combination can also cause serious interactions with other medications, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which may lead to serotonin syndrome.
Overall, while phentermine is approved for short-term use, its cardiovascular effects, particularly with long-term use, are a concern and further research is needed to fully understand the risks.
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Phentermine's side effects
Phentermine is a prescription medication used for weight reduction in patients with obesity. It is typically used for short-term weight loss in patients who have not been able to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. It is important to note that phentermine should not be used by those with a history of heart problems, stroke, or uncontrolled high blood pressure.
Phentermine has been associated with several side effects, some of which can be serious. Here are some of the most common and serious side effects:
Common side effects:
- Fast heartbeat or feeling of skipped heartbeats
- Restlessness or feeling uneasy
- Dry mouth or unpleasant taste
- Diarrhea, constipation, or upset stomach
- Changes in sex drive or sexual dysfunction
Serious side effects:
- Increased blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary arterial hypertension)
- Heart valve problems (valvular heart disease)
- Risk of misuse and tolerance
- Severe allergic reactions
- Changes in alertness or coordination
- Agitation or restlessness
- Hearing, seeing, smelling, tasting, or feeling things that others do not
- Delusional thoughts or disorganized thoughts
- Severe skin problems
- Significant trouble sleeping
- Feeling extremely irritable
- Excessive energy or activity
- Changes in personality
It is important to note that this list may not be exhaustive, and there may be other side effects associated with phentermine. If you experience any adverse effects while taking phentermine, it is important to consult your healthcare provider.
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Who should not use phentermine?
Phentermine is a prescription drug used to treat obesity. It is typically used for a short period, along with exercise and a low-calorie diet, to aid in weight loss. However, it is crucial to be aware of who should refrain from using this drug.
People who have had a stroke or possess certain heart problems, such as coronary artery disease, an abnormal heart rhythm, or uncontrolled high blood pressure, should not take phentermine. Additionally, those with an overactive thyroid, glaucoma, or a history of substance use disorder are advised against using this medication. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also refrain from using phentermine.
Phentermine may also cause allergic reactions and negatively affect people with primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH). It can worsen PPH and lead to serious health issues. Furthermore, phentermine may harm heart valves, causing them to leak and interrupting blood flow. It is imperative to consult a healthcare provider and carefully consider one's medical history before taking phentermine.
Moreover, phentermine has been linked to an increased risk of ischemic stroke, particularly with long-term use. This risk is worth noting, given the drug's structural similarity to amphetamines, which are known to cause ischemic strokes due to their vasoconstrictive properties.
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Phentermine and pregnancy
Phentermine is a prescription medication used for weight loss in people who are overweight or obese. It is typically used alongside a regimen of diet modification and exercise. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it may harm the fetus or cause pregnancy complications.
Phentermine is classified as a "Pregnancy Category X" drug by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), meaning studies have shown it to have adverse effects on the developing fetus. The risks of taking this medication outweigh the potential benefits, and there is no potential benefit of weight loss during pregnancy.
There is limited research on the effects of phentermine on pregnant women and unborn babies. However, some studies have linked phentermine use during pregnancy to an increased risk of birth defects, gestational diabetes, preterm labour, and preterm delivery. One study also found that phentermine use during pregnancy was associated with fetal stroke.
Additionally, phentermine has been associated with an increased risk of heart problems and high blood pressure, which can be dangerous for pregnant women.
If you are taking phentermine and are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is essential to consult your doctor immediately to discuss discontinuing the medication.
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Frequently asked questions
No, you should not take phentermine if you have had a stroke. Phentermine is a controlled substance that is only approved for short-term use and can cause an increased risk of stroke.
Phentermine is a prescription drug used for weight loss in people who are overweight or obese. It is a stimulant that suppresses a person's appetite.
Common side effects of phentermine include a fast heartbeat, high blood pressure, restlessness, dry mouth, diarrhoea, constipation, and upset stomach. Serious side effects may include heart valve problems and increased blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary hypertension).
If you miss a dose of phentermine, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.