Which statement about Phentermine is true?

Which statement about Phentermine is true?

• A. Start with 7.5-15 mg/day and increase only if no results
• B. It should not be prescribed for someone with hx of psych dz or substance abuse
• C. It should be used with SSRIs for better results
• D. It is safe for patients with a history of substance abuse

Answer: (B)

Phentermine is a central nervous system stimulant used for short‑term weight loss. Because it acts like amphetamine, it can heighten psychiatric symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, and psychosis, and it carries a real risk of misuse or dependence. For that reason, it should not be prescribed to someone with a history of psychotic disorders or substance abuse. This safety concern is the strongest reason this statement is true and why the medication is avoided in those populations. Dosing practices vary, but the typical approach is a 15 mg once‑daily morning dose, with possible adjustment if needed; starting at a low dose like 7.5 mg and only increasing if there are no results isn’t the standard guideline. Using phentermine together with SSRIs isn’t a routine practice for “better results” and can raise cardiovascular risk without proven benefit. And it is not considered safe for patients with a history of substance abuse due to the potential for relapse and misuse.

Phentermine is a central nervous system stimulant used for short‑term weight loss. Because it acts like amphetamine, it can heighten psychiatric symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, and psychosis, and it carries a real risk of misuse or dependence. For that reason, it should not be prescribed to someone with a history of psychotic disorders or substance abuse. This safety concern is the strongest reason this statement is true and why the medication is avoided in those populations.

Dosing practices vary, but the typical approach is a 15 mg once‑daily morning dose, with possible adjustment if needed; starting at a low dose like 7.5 mg and only increasing if there are no results isn’t the standard guideline. Using phentermine together with SSRIs isn’t a routine practice for “better results” and can raise cardiovascular risk without proven benefit. And it is not considered safe for patients with a history of substance abuse due to the potential for relapse and misuse.