Phentermine is a well known prescription medication used for weight loss for people who are obese. As an appetite suppressant it works by stimulating the central nervous system so you eat less and stick to a calorie restricted diet.
Phentermine itself is the active ingredient but it’s sold under different brand names with different formulations and benefits. Knowing the different brand names of Phentermine can help patients and doctors choose the best option for weight management.
Here we will look at the most popular Phentermine brands, their features and how they compare to each other.
Popular Brand Names of Phentermine
- Adipex-P: One of the most well-known brands, Adipex-P is widely prescribed for weight loss and is often the go-to brand for many doctors.
- Ionamin: This brand uses a resin matrix to release Phentermine slowly over time, which can help maintain its effects throughout the day.
- Fastin: Originally a brand name for Phentermine, Fastin has been rebranded with a different formulation but is still often associated with weight loss.
- Suprenza: This brand has Phentermine in orally disintegrating tablets so if you have trouble swallowing pills this is a good option.
- Lomaira: Lomaira is a lower dose of Phentermine and is to be taken up to 3 times a day before meals.
- Duromine: Available in some countries outside the US, Duromine is another popular brand that uses a slow release formula.
- Phentercot: Known for its extended release formula Phentercot helps keep the appetite suppressing effects of Phentermine all day.
- Obenix: Less well known but still a popular option for those prescribed Phentermine for weight loss.
- Adiphene: Less commonly prescribed Adiphene is another brand that has Phentermine for appetite suppression and weight loss.
- Metermine: Similar to Duromine Metermine is available in some regions and has a slow release Phentermine to help control appetite all day.
Related: What are the most effective Phentermine alternatives available over the counter?
Legal and Regulatory Aspects of Phentermine Brands by Country
Phentermine is a prescription medication used for weight loss and is regulated differently in each country. Here’s a breakdown of the legal and regulatory aspects of Phentermine brands in each region:
USA
- Regulatory Body: FDA
- Prescription Required: Schedule IV controlled substance, so a prescription from a licensed doctor is required.
- Allowed Use: Short term (a few weeks) for obesity treatment as part of a comprehensive weight loss plan that includes diet, exercise and behavior modification.
- Popular Brands: Adipex-P, Ionamin, Suprenza, Lomaira.
- Restrictions: Due to potential for abuse and dependency, Phentermine prescriptions are often limited in duration and quantity. Regular check ups and monitoring by your doctor is required.
Canada
- Regulatory Body: Health Canada
- Prescription Required: Available only with a prescription and controlled substance under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
- Allowed Use: Short term for obesity management.
- Popular Brands: Adipex-P, Ionamin.
- Restrictions: Strict guidelines for prescription, only prescribed after other weight loss methods have failed.
European Union
- Regulatory Body: EMA and national health agencies
- Prescription Required: Not available due to safety concerns and potential for abuse.
- Allowed Use: In countries where available, under strict conditions and only for severe obesity.
- Popular Brands: Duromine (in some EU countries).
- Restrictions: Many EU countries have banned or severely restricted Phentermine due to cardiovascular side effects and dependency.
Australia
- Regulatory Body: TGA
- Prescription Required: Schedule 4 (Prescription Only Medicine)
- Allowed Use: For obesity treatment when other weight loss methods have not worked.
- Popular Brands: Duromine, Metermine.
- Restrictions: Short term use only, patients must be monitored for side effects.
United Kingdom
- Regulatory Body: MHRA
- Prescription Required: Not commonly prescribed, not available in the UK due to safety concerns.
- Allowed Use: In rare cases where prescribed, strictly controlled and monitored.
- Popular Brands: Not available due to regulatory restrictions.
- Restrictions: The UK has strict rules on Phentermine due to side effects and safer alternatives.
Asia
- Regulatory Body: Varies by country, national health agency.
- Prescription Required: Prescription required, level of control varies.
- Allowed Use: Obesity, same as Western countries.
- Popular Brands: Duromine, Adipex-P (in some countries).
- Restrictions: Japan and South Korea have strict guidelines, others have less control.
Latin America
- Regulatory Body: Varies by country, national health agency.
- Prescription Required: Phentermine requires a prescription.
- Allowed Use: Obesity treatment.
- Popular Brands: Adipex-P, Ionamin.
- Restrictions: Same as US and Canada, short term use with medical supervision.
Important Notes
- Prescription and Monitoring: Phentermine is available only by prescription in most countries due to abuse and side effects potential. Monitoring by healthcare provider is required.
- Short Term Use: Phentermine is approved for short term use, usually a few weeks, to kick start weight loss with lifestyle changes.
- Controlled Substance: In many regions Phentermine is a controlled substance due to abuse and dependency potential.
- Availability: Phentermine and its brands are not available in all countries, some have banned it due to safety concerns.
Summary
Phentermine is a complex and country specific. Although it’s a popular and effective weight loss tool, it’s heavily regulated to ensure patient safety and to minimize side effects and abuse. Consult with your healthcare provider to know the rules and requirements in your area before using Phentermine for weight management.
Phentermine Brand Names: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Phentermine, and how does it work?
Phentermine is a prescription medication used to aid weight loss. It works by stimulating the central nervous system to suppress appetite, helping users consume fewer calories and lose weight more effectively.
2. What are some of the most popular brand names of Phentermine?
Some of the most popular brand names of Phentermine include Adipex-P, Ionamin, Fastin, Suprenza, Lomaira, Duromine, Phentercot, Obenix, Adiphene, and Metermine.
3. What is the most popular Phentermine brand name in the United States?
In the United States, Adipex-P is one of the most well-known and widely prescribed Phentermine brands. It is favored for its consistent effectiveness and availability.
4. What is the most popular Phentermine brand name in Australia?
In Australia, Duromine is a well-known Phentermine brand. It features a slow-release formulation that helps maintain its appetite-suppressing effects throughout the day.
5. What is the most popular Phentermine brand name in the United Kingdom?
Phentermine is not commonly prescribed in the United Kingdom due to safety concerns. However, in some rare cases, it may be available under strict medical supervision.
6. How does Suprenza differ from other Phentermine brands?
Suprenza is unique because it comes in orally disintegrating tablets, making it easier for individuals who have difficulty swallowing pills. It dissolves quickly in the mouth, providing the same appetite-suppressing benefits as other Phentermine brands.
7. How does Lomaira compare to other Phentermine brands?
Lomaira is a lower-dose version of Phentermine, designed to be taken up to three times a day before meals. This allows for more flexible dosing and can help manage appetite throughout the day.
8. Are there any specific side effects associated with different Phentermine brands?
While the active ingredient, Phentermine, can cause similar side effects across all brands (such as dry mouth, insomnia, and increased heart rate), formulations like slow-release (e.g., Ionamin, Duromine) may have different side effect profiles based on their release mechanisms.
9. Can Phentermine brand names affect the cost of the medication?
Yes, the cost of Phentermine can vary depending on the brand. Factors such as dosage form, formulation, and manufacturer can influence the price. Brands like Adipex-P and Lomaira may have different pricing structures.
10. How should I choose the right Phentermine brand for me?
Choosing the right Phentermine brand depends on individual needs, health conditions, and preferences. Discussing with a healthcare provider can help determine the most suitable brand, considering factors like dosage form (tablet, capsule, orally disintegrating) and specific health concerns.
11. Are there any over-the-counter alternatives to Phentermine brand names?
While Phentermine itself is not available over the counter, there are several OTC alternatives such as PhenQ marketed that are as weight loss supplements. These alternatives often contain ingredients that aim to mimic the appetite-suppressing effects of Phentermine but may vary in effectiveness and safety. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
12. Why is Duromine not available in the United States?
Duromine is a slow-release Phentermine formulation available in some countries outside the United States. Its availability is restricted in the U.S. due to regulatory differences and approval processes by the FDA.