Phentramine is a type of weight loss supplement, and is not the same as phentermine. Phentramine is a non-prescription herbal supplement, whereas phentermine has been approved by the FDA as a prescribed weight loss medication. Phentramine contains bitter orange, a stimulant replacement for the banned medication ephedra. Gurana is another ingredient of phentramine, which contains massive amounts of caffeine. According to Kristi Monson, PharmD of Med TV, since the effects of phentramine have not been fully studied, possible effects may be the result of the ingredients that comprise phentramine.
Possible Side Effects
Since phentramine contains bitter orange and caffeine, both of which are stimulants, you may experience these possible side effects: sleep disturbances, such as insomnia; nervousness; shaking of the hands; feeling jittery; heartburn; and the feeling as if you are spinning. Other effects may include nausea and vomiting, increased urination, headaches, tinnitus (ringing of your ears) and sun sensitivity. Sexual issues such as impotence can occur, as well.
Severe Effects
It is important to consult a physician if you experience any of these issues: High blood pressure, or a racing or irregular heartbeat are signs of a serious condition. It is not common to feel your heart beating forcefully, to have chest pains, or to experience visual disturbances such as blurriness. If you feel as if one side of your body is going numb or weak, seek medical attention immediately, as these are potential signs of a stroke. Seizures are another severe effect of phentramine.
Ischemic Colitis
By using phentramine, you have a rare chance of developing ischemic colitis. According to the Mayo Clinic, ischemic colitis occurs when your colon is injured or inflamed due to a restriction in blood flow to the colon. If you develop ischemic colitis, you usually will feel pain on the lower left side of your abdomen. You may also experience bloody stools, frequent diarrhea, vomiting and fever.
Allergic Reactions
Having an allergic reaction to a medication is rare. However, if you develop any of the following symptoms, discontinue taking phentramine and seek immediate medical attention: rash or hives; or swollen face, tongue or lips. It is also abnormal to experience difficulty breathing, wheezing of the chest, or difficulty swallowing.
Dont's
Do not take this medication if you have existing conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure or diabetes.
Do not take this medication while pregnant or nursing, as it is not known what effects there may be to the fetus. Since phentramine contains stimulants, small amounts of the supplement can be excreted into breast milk. A nursing infant may experience irritability, loss of appetite and difficulty in sleeping.
Never take more than the recommended dose. Signs of an overdose include difficulty in breathing, confusion and disorientation, hallucinations, seizures, fast heartbeat, dizziness and increased urination.
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