Phentermine and Heart Failure: Potential Risks, Long-Term Impacts, and Further Details
Phentermine: A Weight Loss Drug with Potential Heart Risks
Phentermine, a popular weight loss drug, has been in use since the 1950s, but its safety and potential risks have been a subject of debate. The drug, chemically related to amphetamine, can stimulate the brain and spinal cord, suppressing a person's appetite [2].
However, there are concerns about Phentermine's impact on heart health. The combination of Phentermine and topiramate may raise a person's resting heart rate up to 20 beats per minute [1]. Moreover, Phentermine can increase heart rate and blood pressure, potentially worsening pre-existing heart disease or stroke risk [3].
While Phentermine itself is not directly linked to causing valvular heart disease or pulmonary hypertension, these serious heart conditions were primarily associated with fenfluramine, a related drug that was often combined with Phentermine in the past [1]. Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a potentially life-threatening condition of high blood pressure in lung arteries, has been rarely reported with Phentermine use, but most cases involved concurrent use of fenfluramine or dexfenfluramine [3].
Careful assessment is advised before using Phentermine in people with heart conditions, but Phentermine's direct causal role in these specific heart diseases is not established [2][3]. Rare reports of pulmonary arterial hypertension with Phentermine usually involve combined stimulant drugs including fenfluramine [3].
Phentermine poses the dangers of abuse and dependence, and a person can develop a tolerance to the drug, requiring a larger dose to receive the same effect. It is unsafe to exceed the recommended dosage [1].
People with cardiovascular disease, congestive heart failure, disease of the heart arteries, stroke, disorder in heart rhythm, uncontrolled high blood pressure should not take Phentermine [1]. Additionally, Phentermine can impair a person's ability to safely operate machinery or drive a motor vehicle [1].
Individuals should not take other weight loss products or SSRIs when taking Phentermine [1]. They should also avoid consuming alcoholic beverages while on the drug [1].
In light of these potential risks, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned fenfluramine in 1997, but it continues to allow the short-term use of Phentermine [1]. More clinical trials are necessary to determine the long-term safety of using Phentermine for 6 months or longer [1].
On the other hand, the Mediterranean diet, which includes nutrient-rich, high-fiber foods, can yield long-term, maintainable weight loss [1]. Weight loss surgery, such as bariatric surgery, may be an option for people with a high body mass index, but it has short-term and long-term risks [1].
In conclusion, while Phentermine can aid in weight loss, it is crucial to understand its potential risks, especially regarding heart health. Consulting a healthcare professional before starting any weight loss regimen is always advisable.
[1] FDA. (2021). Phentermine. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/phentermine [2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Phentermine. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/phentermine/description/drg-20078889 [3] National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2021). Phentermine. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/phentermine
- In the context of health-and-wellness, it's important to note that Phentermine, a weight loss drug, can potentially affect cardiovascular health and should be used with caution, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical-conditions such as heart disease or high blood pressure.
- The field of science continues to research the long-term effects of Phentermine use on heart health, but current evidence suggests it may pose risks, including increased heart rate, blood pressure, and potential worsening of other heart diseases, underscoring the need for careful medical supervision when considering its use for weight loss.
