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Diethylpropion is the ‘Generic' name. Pharmaceutical companies may market or sell this drug under this generic name or under their own name (Brand name or Trade name) for the product.
Trade names for diethylpropion are: Tenuate, Tenuate dospan
What is the medication diethylpropion used to treat?
Diethylpropion is an appetite suppressant. Diethylpropion is prescribed for short term use (a few weeks) as part of an overall diet plan for weight reduction.
Diethylpropion works by stimulating the central nervous system which causes an increase in heart rate and blood pressure and a decrease in appetite.
What should be known before using the medication diethylpropion for weight loss?
Some medicines and/or medical conditions may interact with diethylpropion. A physician and/or pharmacist should be informed of all prescription and over-the-counter medicines the person is taking.
Diethylpropion should not be used if the person is also taking guanadrel, guanethidine, furazolidone, or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs
Diethylpropion may be habit-forming and can become addicting.
Diethylpropion should not be taken if the person has severe hardening of the arteries, an overactive thyroid, glaucoma or severe high blood pressure.
What are the directions for taking diethylpropion for weight loss?
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by the physician. The diethylpropion tablets or capsules should not be crushed or chewed. Diethylpropion tablets or capsules should be swallowed whole. Diethylpropion is usually taken on an empty stomach about 30-60 minutes before a meal. The last dose of the day should be taken at least 4 to 6 hours before bedtime. Diethylpropion should be stored at room temperature below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) in a tightly-closed container, away from light and heat.
What precautions should be taken while using diethylpropion for weight loss?
Do not exceed the recommended dose or take diethylpropion for longer than prescribed without checking with the prescribing physician. Exceeding the recommended dose or taking diethylpropion for a longer period of time than prescribed may cause serious side effects.
Before taking any new medication, either prescription or over-the-counter, a physician or pharmacist should be consulted. All physician and laboratory appointments should be kept while a person is using diethylpropion as it usually increases the heart rate and blood pressure.
It is recommended that before a person has any medical or dental treatments, they inform the physician or dentist that they are taking diethylpropion.
Diethylpropion may impair the ability to engage in potentially hazardous activities. It is important that a person know how they react to diethylpropion before they drive, operate heavy machinery, or do anything else that requires alertness or concentration.
Diethylpropion may increase convulsions in some epileptics. A physician should monitor a patient on diethylpropion carefully if they have epilepsy.
Diethylpropion is habit forming. A person can become physically and psychologically dependent on diethylpropion.
Diethylpropion may interact with alcohol unfavorably. It is recommended that a person not consume alcohol while taking diethylpropion.
Diethylpropion is excreted in breast milk. Typically if a person is to begin breast feeding while on phentermine, they should check with their physician or pharmacist to discuss the risks to the baby.
What are some of the possible side effects of diethylpropion?
Side effects that may go away during treatment with diethylpropion include restlessness, nervousness, difficulty sleeping, or dry mouth. If the side effects of diethylpropion continue or are bothersome, it is best to check with a physician.
Other side effects that may occur while taking diethylpropion include abdominal discomfort, abnormal redness of the skin, blood pressure elevation, blurred vision, breast development in males, bruising, changes in sex drive, chest pain, constipation, diarrhea, hair loss, headache, hives, increased sweating, increased seizures in epileptics, pupil dilation, and vomiting.
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, it is best for the person to inform the physician as soon as possible. Only the physician should determine if it is safe for the patient to continue taking diethylpropion.
What are some of the other medications that have been shown to interact with diethylpropion?
It is recommended that a physician be consulted before combining diethylpropion with blood pressure medications such as ismelin, insulin, or MAO inhibitors
Diethylpropion should not be combined with any other weight loss medications.
It is recommended that "stimulant" medications that may increase your heart rate or blood pressure such as decongestants or caffeine not be combined with diethylpropion.
Additional Information about diethylpropion for weight loss
Diethylpropion, like any other medication should not be shared with others. Do not use phentermine for other health conditions. Keep diethylpropion out the reach of children.
Disclaimer
The contents of Weight Awareness are for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a physician or another qualified health care provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment. Our goal at Weight Awareness is to inform, not to diagnose or treat.
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