Phentermine (sometimes known under the alternative names of: Adipex-P; Obenix; Oby-Trim; Anoxine-AM; Fastin; Ionamin; Obephen; Obermine; Obestin-30; Phentrol) is a powerful weight-loss drug first approved by the FDA in 1959. In use for almost half a century, it has been a source of much controversy since the late 1990s, when it became popular in combination with fenfluramine, collectively known as Fen/Phen. What are the effects of this drug, and how does it act upon the human body?

Phentermine works by triggering a fight-or-flight response. It acomplishes this by changing the Seratonin levels in the brain and releasing Adrenaline and other related chemicals. This can result in, among other things, heightened blood-pressure, a feeling of panic, insomnia (or, in some, drowsiness) and a loss of appetite.

It is only recommended for moderate weight-loss and for short-term use. Some contra-indications for use are: it is known to be dangerous for people who are already suffering from high blood-pressure or Glaucoma. It can be addictive, and abruptly quitting use of Phemtermine (going "cold turkey") has been known to cause lethargy, depression, and similar related conditions. Some other known side effect include changes in insulin requirements (hyper or hypo glycemia) as well as loss of sexual function (impotence).

Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phentermine [Wikipedia]
http://www.medicinenet.com/phentermine/article.htm [Medicine Net]
http://www.fda.gov/cder/news/phen/fenphenqa2.htm [FDA.Gov]
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/medmaster/a682187.html [Medline Plus]
http://www.Health-Hack.com/ [Health-Hack.com]