{"id":58725,"date":"2023-06-09T09:30:32","date_gmt":"2023-06-09T13:30:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=58725"},"modified":"2024-11-11T18:11:19","modified_gmt":"2024-11-11T23:11:19","slug":"phentermine-and-alcohol","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/phentermine-and-alcohol\/","title":{"rendered":"Can you mix phentermine and alcohol?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Phentermine is a common prescription weight loss drug that is typically prescribed for short-term use. For many people who struggle to manage their weight, it may be a viable option to help shed some pounds when used along with a regime that includes a healthy diet and exercise. If you\u2019ve been prescribed phentermine, you may be wondering whether it\u2019s safe to drink alcohol while taking it.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When taken alone, phentermine already has the potential to cause <\/span>harmful side effects<\/span><\/a>. Drinking alcohol can heighten this risk and make side effects potentially more severe. Although the extent of phentermine and alcohol interacting can depend on various factors, like how much of each substance is consumed, there is still a risk of side effects with moderate drinking. Even a small amount of alcohol can interact with phentermine.<\/span><\/p>\n

Continue reading to learn more about mixing phentermine and alcohol and what you should know about the possible consequences.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What is phentermine?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Phentermine, also known by the brand names <\/span>Adipex-P<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>Lomaira<\/span><\/a>, is an anorectic drug that helps suppress appetite. It is part of a drug class called sympathomimetic amines. Phentermine is believed to work in various ways, as it has central nervous system (CNS) stimulant effects and helps reduce feelings of hunger.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Phentermine is FDA-approved as a weight loss drug for <\/span>people with obesity<\/span><\/a> (body mass index (BMI) over 30 kg\/m<\/span>2<\/span>) or those who are overweight (BMI over 27 kg\/m<\/span>2<\/span>) with a weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure or diabetes. It is typically taken as a 37.5 mg tablet or capsule once daily in the morning.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Because it is chemically similar to the stimulant drug amphetamine, phentermine is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance with a small risk of abuse and dependence.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Some people may recognize phentermine as an ingredient of the prescription drug <\/span>Qsymia<\/span><\/a>, a weight-loss medication that contains a combination of <\/span>topiramate and phentermine<\/span><\/a>. <\/span>Topiramate<\/span><\/a> is an anticonvulsant or antiseizure medication that was <\/span>FDA approved in 2012 to treat obesity when given in combination with phentermine<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Can you drink alcohol while taking phentermine?<\/span><\/h2>\n

In general, it\u2019s not recommended to drink alcohol while taking phentermine due to the risk of cardiovascular side effects, including an increased heart rate or irregular heartbeat. While it\u2019s a good idea to discuss any amount of alcohol use with a healthcare provider when you are taking any medications, the <\/span>FDA label for phentermine<\/span><\/a> advises against combining phentermine and alcohol because of an increased risk of adverse reactions.<\/span><\/p>\n

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How long after taking phentermine can you drink alcohol?<\/span><\/h3>\n

There isn’t a definitive answer to how long you should wait after taking phentermine to consume alcohol, but it’s generally recommended to avoid alcohol entirely while on this medication. As phentermine can stay in your system for up to 72 hours, you may want to wait at least a few days before drinking alcohol.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If you must drink, keep consumption to a minimum and monitor your body’s reactions, as even a moderate amount of alcohol poses a risk of causing side effects with phentermine.<\/span><\/p>\n

The consequences of mixing phentermine and alcohol<\/span><\/h2>\n

Mixing phentermine and alcohol could lead to overlapping side effects. As a stimulant drug, phentermine can increase your blood pressure and put stress on your heart. In addition, it may cause gastrointestinal issues and alter your mood and mental state. Alcohol can cause similar side effects, which could lead to amplified side effects of both substances.<\/span><\/p>\n

Common side effects of mixing phentermine and alcohol<\/span><\/h3>\n

The combination of side effects of alcohol and phentermine is likely to be more severe than the side effects of either substance on its own. The most common of these may include:<\/span><\/p>\n