phentermine hydrochloride /fen″tərmēn/ , a sympathomimetic amine used as an anorectic agent. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed as a short-term adjunct to decrease appetite during treatment of obesity with a regimen of caloric reduction, exercise, and behavioral modification. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, or known hypersensitivity to this drug or to other sympathomimetic drugs prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more serious adverse effects are restlessness, insomnia, tachycardia, increased blood pressure, and dry mouth. The combination of phentermine with fenfluramine or dexfenfluramine has been linked to cases of primary pulmonary hypertension, which can be fatal.
