If you’ve ever tried to lose weight, you know the hardest part isn’t always knowing what to do; it’s managing hunger while you’re doing it.
For some people, their appetite doesn’t just feel strong, it feels constant. That’s where medications like phentermine can help.
Here at Novell Primary Care and Weight Loss, our medical weight loss programs are comprehensive. We cover everything from fitness classes to meal planning to medication. If your appetite is derailing your goals, we may recommend phentermine.
Take a moment as we explain what phentermine is and how it works to suppress your appetite.
Phentermine is a Schedule IV (Class 4) controlled substance, which means it has a recognized medical use, but it also has a potential for dependence. Because of this, it must be prescribed and monitored by a qualified provider.
It’s a prescription medication used for short-term weight management. “Short term” typically means less than 12 weeks. During that time, phentermine works as an appetite suppressant and helps reduce hunger so you can more easily maintain a calorie deficit.
It’s typically prescribed alongside lifestyle changes, such as nutrition and exercise, not as a standalone solution.
Phentermine acts on your central nervous system. It helps curb your appetite in a few ways.
When you take phentermine, it stimulates the release of certain neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine, which activates your body’s “fight-or-flight” response. This response can suppress hunger signals and reduce your desire to eat. In simple terms, your brain receives fewer cues that you need food.
It may also have mild effects on dopamine and serotonin, which can influence motivation, focus, and mood. This can make it easier to stay engaged with your weight loss plan and resist impulsive eating.
The result is a reduced drive to eat, which makes it easier to control portions and avoid frequent snacking.
When used appropriately, phentermine can help patients stay more consistent with their nutrition plan. The usual dose is 30 or 37.5 mg once daily and should be taken in the morning to prevent insomnia.
Many people notice:
Because hunger is more manageable, it becomes easier to follow through with your long-term habits and meal plans.
Because phentermine is intended for short-term use, it works best as part of a broader, structured plan.
This may include:
Our team can help you put together a plan that supports both your short-term progress and long-term success.
If you’re struggling with persistent hunger or difficulty staying consistent with weight loss efforts, phentermine may be worth discussing with your care team at Novell Primary Care and Weight Loss.
You can also schedule your consultation through our online booking system.
We also offer walk-in appointments on Capital Circle on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
