Adipex-P, i.e. phentermine hydrochloride, is an amphetamine (phenethylamine class) thats an approved appetite suppressant for obese patients engaged in weight reducing diet and exercise regimens. Adipex-P is typically prescribed for individuals who are at increased medical risk due to obesity, and works by helping to release certain appetite controlling chemicals within the brain.
More specifically, Adipex-P stimulates the brains neuron bundles coaxing them to release a particular group of neurotransmitters known as catecholamines which include dopamine, epinephrine (also known as adrenaline), and norepinephrine (noradrenaline). The anorectic (suppressing or causing loss of appetite) activity seen with these compounds is likely due to their effect on the central nervous system and its relationship to feeding behavior. Adipex-P uses the same mechanism of action as other appetite suppressants, like diethylpropion and phendimetrazine. The neurotransmitters signal a fight-or-flight response within the body which, in turn, halts all hunger signals. This naturally results in a loss of appetite because the brain cannot receive the hunger message. Drugs of this class used in obesity are commonly known as "anorectics" or "anorexigenics".
Claims have been made that Adipex-P, and all phentermine hydrochloride brands, also serve as valid fat-burners - agents that possess central nervous system (CNS) and metabolism stimulating properties. However, the study evidence for this argument (mostly compared to placebos) is minute, and largely unsubstantiated at present. However, it is quite interesting and noteworthy that many of the side effects associated with this drug are highly consistent with those of traditional CNS stimulants like Ephedra, L-Tyrosine, Pseudoephedrine, Synephrine, etc.
Indications/Purpose:
For bodybuilding purposes Adipex-P is often administered during the pre-contest phase of training. When taken in conjunction with all the pre-contest principles that would be employed anyway, i.e. cardio and weight training exercise, behavioral modification, caloric restriction, increased protein consumption, etc., Adipex-P can be a great addition to the carbohydrate craving/depleted diet regimen.
The usual adult dose is one tablet (37.5 mg) daily, administered before breakfast or 1-2 hours after breakfast. Bodybuilder dosage recommendations are consistent with those of patients, and should be individualized to obtain an adequate response with the lowest effective dose. For some patients or bodybuilders half a tablet (18.75 mg) daily may be adequate, while others might take half a dose twice daily.
Side Effects:
As cited earlier, Adipex-P and all other phentermine hydrochloride brands have side effects very similar to those of CNS stimulant users. The most common side effects include restlessness, nervousness, insomnia, dizziness, euphoria, warming sensations, and increased blood pressure. Less common side effects include headaches, lowered libido, arrhythmia, rapid respiration, confusion, blurred vision, dry mouth, diarrhea, and fatigue.
Additional Information:
Late evening administration of Adipex-P should be avoided because of the possibility of insomnia. Concomitant (supplemental or incidental) use of alcohol with any form of phentermine hydrochloride may result in an adverse drug reaction.
