side effects after 2 1/2 wks

patti · 05-07-2006, 02:57 PM

i have been taking phentermine for 2 1/2 weeks and lost 6 lbs. Ihad no side effects for the first week except constipation, but now i have a lot of
nervousness and anxiety. the dr said he would switch to something that began with a "t" if not better in 2 weeks, but wondering if i should stop now. I sleep great at night, but am wired all day. I had some pains in my lower neck and head that the dr. said was tension brought on by the anxiety. I'd like to stick with it another 2 wks, is it possible my body will adjust soon?

**yesimln** · 05-07-2006, 04:49 PM

Hi. Welcome. My body adjusted. The first few days I could have scaled buildings. A lot of people take half a pill at a time - half in the morning half around lunch time I think. I've had some headaches on this too - most noticeable when I am not drinking enough water. If you're not getting in a full gallon daily you need to pusy it more. That helps keep everything, including the constipation btw, from becoming problematic. Good luck! Ellen

patti · 05-07-2006, 07:49 PM

since i have been on this almost 3 wks should this anxiety/heart racing etc. still be happening or does it take longer than 3 wks to adjust?

amandads · 05-08-2006, 04:05 AM

Well, it's usually different for everyone. Mine only lasted about 3-4 days myself. It could be that you are just less tolerant to that particular side effect. I would trust what the Doctor tells you though. When you go back to see him, if he says to change, it's probably a good idea. He may have something that will work much better for you anyway. Good luck and please keep us posted. Rather you are on the Phen or not you can still come and chat w/ us!

Amanda

**top-dawg** · 05-08-2006, 05:59 AM

:razz: Hi Patti, Your Doc tor probably said he would have you try Tenuate. Off the top of my head it is the only weight loss drug w/T. Although the chemical compound is different from that of Phentermine it still has many of the same side-effects. Tenuate stimulates the central nervous system. that will raise your blood pressure and increase your heart rate. You build up a resistance to Tenuate or (Diethylpropion), after a few weeks, sometimes sooner.Because the chemical composition is different if you are building resistance to Phentermine Tenuate will work in the beginning. If you are having those type os side effects w/Phenterime you will have them w/Tenuate as well. Both of these appetite suppressants are only meant to be taken for a short period of time. Good Luck ,top-dawg :razz:

patti · 05-08-2006, 11:18 AM

thanks for your input, it really helps. i don't want to give up on phentermine just yet because of the good weight loss. new development though--last night i had a palpatation-heart racing and beating out of my chest, lasted not too long. do you thingk this was medication induced or because i'm stressing about these symptoms so much? thanks again for any input.

**top-dawg** · 05-08-2006, 11:43 AM

Patti, I am not a doctor just a pharmacist. It sounds to me like you should see your Doctor. I don't want to speculate because it could be either or both. What phentermine are you taking? Time released capsules or 37.5 tablet ? If you are taking the capsule perhaps he will prescribe the 15mgs. for you. If you are taking the tab get a little pill cutter, they are only $3, Walmart or any pharmacy will have them. Many of the members here do this especially when starting out. Your body will tolerate it gradually. It does not sound good that after this length of time you had an episode like you described. I really think you should call for an appt. and not take any more until he knows what is happening. If you ask for any of the above, remember to phrase it in such away that doc knows that he is still the boss. Many docs. get really offended, as if you are TELLING them. Good Luck and let me know what he prescribed for you that you have been taking ok? top-dawg :smile: :smile: :smile:

patti · 05-08-2006, 04:51 PM

i spoke with the dr. on call and he advised taking half of the 37.5 mg tablet and see if i feel better-if not, then in 2wks when i go back he will switch me to tenuate. i guess either of these options i would not loose the weight as quickly, but would hopefully feel better. in the past i took effexor and lexapro which put about 15 lbs on me and shut my metabolism down, so even with running, pilates and diet i did not lose even an ounce. my goal once i loose the weight is to be completely medication free and eat healthy and exercise.