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Baltimore Bariatrics 
Appetite Suppressant Medication
The medication primarily used at Rossville Weight Loss Center is Phentermine.
This is a prescription medication that is classified as a controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It is a centrally acting medication that has stimulant and appetite suppressant effects. The stimulant effect, about the same as several cups of strong coffee, will last for several weeks. The appetite suppressant effect will last for as long as the medication is used. In one study, this has been for over four years.
There is ample documentation in the medical literature to support the use of appetite suppressant medication in a medically supervised weight loss program. These include any number of controlled double-blind clinical trials which show that patients treated with these medications and a dietary program loose significantly more weight and KEEP IT OFF, than do those patients treated with diet modification alone, or with a placebo and diet modification.
The main problem has been finding a medication that will suppress the appetite while having minimal side effects or adverse reactions.
Most of the currently available medications are chemically related to the class of drugs known as sympathomimetic amines, or the amphetamines.
These medications are central nervous system stimulants, as well as being appetite suppressants. For this reason, there is a potential for abuse if these medications are not used in the manner in which they are prescribed.
Side Effects of Phentermine
The Central Nervous System can be effected with restlessness, insomnia, agitation, and over-stimulation.
The Cardiovascular System effects can include an elevation in the blood pressure, a rapid heart rate, and palpitations.
Gastrointestinal effects include dry mouth, and constipation or diarrhea.
Any of these side effects should immediately be brought to the attention of the physician and the staff.
All of these side effects can be minimized or eliminated if the medication is taken according to directions.
Expected ResponseThe significant experience that this drug has had in treating obesity allows us to predict, with reasonable accuracy, the average patient's response to the medication:
- 60% of patients will have an excellent response and lose weight promptly
- 30% of patients will have an intermediate response, but will respond to the dosage adjustment
- 10% of patients may require an alternative medication