Take a 30-minute walk every morning Take the stairs instead of the elevator at work or at home Replace sugary drinks like soda or energy drinks with water Replace processed snacks (such as potato chips) with fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts Drink a glass of water with every meal to help you feel full and satisfied Eat foods with lots of fiber such as whole grains Do 15 minutes of moderately aerobic exercise each day, such as jogging, biking, or swimming
Furthermore, phentermine by itself will not help you lose weight, it will only decrease the apatite. It will still require self discipline to eat healthy and not overeat and to exercise in order to lose weight. While many of the side effects are minor, others can be quite severe (such as increased blood pressure and chest pain). [6] X Research source Never self-prescribe phentermine or try to obtain it illegally. Only take this medication under a doctor’s care. Phentermine should not be used by patients with high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, substance abuse issues, or by women who are pregnant or might become pregnant or breastfeeding. [7] X Research source Patients over the age of 65 also should not take phentermine. [8] X Research source Phentermine can react negatively to other medications such as MAO inhibitors, SSRIs, and weight loss drugs. Talk to your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbs you take to make sure that you don’t experience harmful side effects. [9] X Research source
There have been reports of doctors prescribing phentermine unsafely and without proper monitoring. Be sure that your doctor is reputable and forthright about the risks of phentermine before you begin taking the drug. [11] X Research source You can do some quick research on your doctor by looking on your state’s medical licensing website to find the doctor’s name and credentials.
Taking phentermine at the same time every morning can help you remember to take it. Try to maintain a consistent schedule. [15] X Research source If you were prescribed time-release capsules, be sure to swallow them whole. Chewing a time-release capsule can lead to incorrect dosages and side effects. [16] X Research source
Minor to moderate side effects include dry mouth, constipation, vomiting, and diarrhea. You should notify your physician if these side effects are severe and long-lasting. [19] X Research source Serious side effects include heart palpitations, high blood pressure, insomnia, dizziness, tremors, chest pain, breathlessness, and swollen legs. Notify your doctor immediately at the first sign of these side effects. [20] X Research source Sometimes phentermine can enhance the effects of alcohol. Do not drive or use heavy machinery until you know how phentermine affects you, and it is a good idea to stay away from alcoholic beverages while on the drug. [21] X Research source
Meal replacements (especially for patients who struggle with portion control)[23] X Research source A very-low-calorie diet, often taken in liquid form, under close supervision[24] X Research source Lifestyle modification. This can include rather simple changes such as avoiding processed snack foods, eating lots of low-fat proteins and fresh fruits and veggies, and steering clear of alcohol, simple carbohydrates, and sugars.
A food journal (using an app, a website, or just pen and paper) might also be useful. By recording everything you eat, you can learn to resist temptations more readily.
If you cannot exercise strenuously right away, consider low-impact exercise such as swimming, or even walking. You can always work your way up to more strenuous exercises such as running, jogging, or lifting weights.
