Brand Names for Phentermine 30mg Capsules
Adipex-P is the primary brand name for phentermine 30mg capsules in the United States. 1
Available Formulations
Phentermine is an adrenergic agonist medication approved for short-term weight management and is available in several formulations:
Brand name options:
- Adipex-P (most common brand for 30mg capsules)
- Lomaira (lower dose tablets - 8mg)
Formulation types: 1
- Capsules (30mg, 37.5mg)
- Tablets (8mg, 37.5mg)
- Powder (for compounding)
Dosing Information
The FDA-approved dosing for phentermine includes:
- Standard dosing: 15-37.5mg once daily 1
- Common starting dose: 30mg once daily (capsule form)
- Alternative dosing strategies: 1
- Quarter tablet (9.375mg)
- Half tablet (18.75mg)
- Split dosing (half tablet twice daily)
Clinical Considerations
Efficacy
Phentermine demonstrates significant efficacy for weight loss:
- Produces approximately 5.1% weight loss at 28 weeks compared to placebo 1
- In clinical studies, 30mg daily dosing has shown to be more effective than 15mg daily in the first 3 months of treatment 2
Duration of Treatment
- FDA approval: Short-term use only (≤12 weeks) 1, 3
- Important caveat: Many providers prescribe phentermine for longer durations as off-label therapy for continued weight management 1
Safety Considerations
- Cardiovascular disease
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Hyperthyroidism
- Glaucoma
- Agitated states
- History of drug abuse
- Pregnancy or nursing
- During or within 14 days of MAOI use
- Concomitant use with other sympathomimetic amines
- Dry mouth
- Insomnia
- Dizziness
- Irritability
- Nausea/vomiting
- Constipation
- Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
Monitoring Recommendations
For patients prescribed phentermine 30mg capsules:
- Assess efficacy and safety monthly for the first 3 months, then at least every 3 months 1
- Monitor blood pressure and heart rate at each visit 3
- Consider discontinuation if less than 5% weight loss at 12 weeks 1
- Be vigilant for potential drug-drug interactions, particularly with serotonergic medications 4
Important Prescribing Considerations
- Phentermine is a Schedule IV controlled substance 1
- Should be taken early in the day to minimize insomnia 3
- Should be used as an adjunct to lifestyle modifications, not as monotherapy 1
- When discontinuing, consider gradual tapering rather than abrupt cessation 3
Phentermine 30mg capsules should be prescribed with caution and with appropriate monitoring, particularly given its sympathomimetic properties and potential for cardiovascular effects.