
Brand Name: Bontril
Also known as: Adipost, Adphen, Anorex, Bacarate, Dyrexan-OD, Metra, Obalan, Phenzine, Statobex, Trimstat, Wehhless.
Generic name: Phendimetrazine (phendimetrazine tartrate)
Manufactured by: Valeant Pharmaceuticals at www.valeant.com
A prescription diet pill, Bontril works as an appetite suppressant and amphetamine-like stimulant. It stimulates the regions of the brain where appetite and hunger are controlled, making the user feel a sensation of fullness. A schedule II controlled substance (which has a relatively high potential for abuse/addiction), phendimetrazine/Bontril was approved for weight loss by the American Food and Drug Administration in 1961. Not only can this drug lead to weight loss, but can also increase energy levels in users. However, as with many apettite suppressants, weight loss may be temporary, especially once the use of the drug has ceased. In order to keep the weight off, a continued plan of sensible eating and regular exercise must be followed.
Dosage: Bontril can be taken two ways – either as a 35mg tablet three times per day (each time to be taken before a meal), or as a 105mg sustained-release tablet/capsule before lunch. As this drug is likely to cause sleeplessness if it is taken too late in the day, the regular tablets should be taken between four to six hours before going to bed, or the sustained-release capsules between 10-14 hours before bed time. If a dose is missed, take the next one as soon as you can – unless it is almost time to take your next dose, and you should just continue with your regular program. Bontril should only be taken for a maximum of three months due to the ability to build up a tolerance to it. A course of between 3-12 weeks is what is advised by most physicians as a safe course.
Bontril Side Effects: A warning has been issued for this drug, indicating a risk of primary pulmonary hypertension and valvular disease in some users. This warning is a ‘black box’ warning – this highest in the industry for drugs, and potential users should take this into consideration before embarking on a course of this drug. Common side effects associated with taking Bontril (phendimetrazine) include: restlessness; insomnia; dizziness; tremors; blurred vision; palpitations; constipation; change in sex drive; and a dry mouth.
Less common side effects include very high blood pressure; cardiac arrest; coma; convulsions; and death.
Precautions: If you are using blood pressure medications, be aware that Bontril/phendimetrazine has the potential to decrease its effectiveness. If you are using this drug also with MAO inhibitors or with the drug furazolidone (used to treat infectious diarrhea and enteritis), it can raise your blood pressure and risk of stroke. As this is a schedule II controlled drug, there is a high potential for abuse. Be weary of sustained use, as the potential for addiction to this drug is high. Users who suddenly cease taking Bontril may go through withdrawal – which may include fatigue, insomnia and depression.
Women who are pregnant or attempting to get pregnant, or are breast-feeding should not take this drug.
People who are taking MAO inhibitors; phenothiazine tranquilizers; anti-hypertensive medications; insulin or oral diabetic medications; cough, cold or asthma medication should talk to their doctor before taking this drug. Users should also avoid caffeine while taking Bontril.
As Bontril/phendimetrazine is an appetite suppressant which often causes dry mouth, users are advised to take special care when it comes to oral hygiene in order to prevent gum disease.
Diet Pills
Overview
What's Safe
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By Prescription
Phentermine
Adipex
Bontril
Didrex
Meridia
Tenuate
Xenical
Over the Counter
CLA
Cortislim
Ephedra
Estrin D
Green Tea
Phase 2
Propolene
Stacker
Trimspa
Zantrex
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(table 1 & Table 2)
Over the Counter