Last time, we covered phendimetrazine, an appetite suppressant. This time, let's look at phentermine, another appetite suppressant. Phentermine, like phendimetrazine, is one of the most commonly used appetite suppressants in Korea. The pill's shape resembles a butterfly, earning it the nickname 'butterfly pill.' The appetite center is controlled by the hypothalamus in the brain, which maintains energy balance, regulates hunger, and ultimately controls food intake through appetite suppression.
Neurotransmitters related to appetite regulation include norepinephrine, serotonin, dopamine, and GABA. Among these, norepinephrine is involved in appetite suppression and increased energy expenditure (thermogenesis), and phentermine is the drug that releases it. The mechanism of action is the same as phendimetrazine. In other words, the drug mechanism releases norepinephrine to suppress appetite.
Take one tablet once daily. The main side effects, like phendimetrazine, include insomnia and dry mouth, but these usually subside within the first 1-2 weeks. Phentermine has a stronger appetite-suppressing effect than phendimetrazine, but the side effects are also somewhat stronger. Some people find the insomnia, dry mouth, and palpitations quite bothersome. Also, because the drug is potent, tolerance develops more easily. It's best to take it for about 4-6 weeks and then take a drug holiday. There are no major precautions, but people with psychiatric instability, substance abuse issues, children under 16, or those taking other appetite suppressants should avoid this medication. Everyone knows obesity is the root of many diseases. But dieting isn't easy. Many experience yo-yo effects after dieting. Based on personal experience, taking appetite suppressants helped regulate food intake, which became habitual, and eventually I could control my diet even without the medication. Personally, I prefer phendimetrazine over phentermine. It has fewer side effects and, most importantly, the dosage can be adjusted to prescribe different amounts based on the patient's condition without side effects. For those struggling with dieting, obesity medication (appetite suppressants) can be a good option with minimal side effects.
