Diethylpropion is an appetite suppressant that may be used as part of a weight loss plan. It is designed to be combined with diet and exercise to promote weight loss, and may not be effective on its own. Patients take the drug for a short period of time, usually under direction from a medical professional who can recommend a safe dose and monitor for signs of side effects. Possible drug interactions should be discussed before starting treatment in case there is a potential for conflict.
This medication acts to suppress the appetite to help patients eat less. It comes in the form of regular and extended release tablets. The optimal dose can depend on patient history and how well the patient responds to the drug. Extended release tablets need to be taken whole, as they are covered in a specialized coating that will be damaged if they are crushed and cut. Damaging the coating can cause the medication to release too quickly, which may increase the risk of side effects.
Patients taking diethylpropion may notice side effects like dry mouth and stomach upset. It can take several days to adjust, but they should also notice a decrease in appetite. The drug is a stimulant, and may make people feel more energetic. Side effects like chest pains, rapid heart beat, and fainting are signs that the patient may be experiencing a bad reaction. Dosage may need to be reduced, or the patient could need to stop taking the drug altogether and try an alternative.
The safety of diethylpropion has been assessed in a number of studies. It can be a problem for patients who have experienced bad reactions to stimulants, and for those who take herbal supplements that are supposed to decrease appetite or increase metabolism. People with a history of reactions to amphetamines should discuss this with their care providers, because it can be a cause for concern. Monoamine oxidase inhibitor medications can also cause potential conflicts. Patients may need to stop them and allow several days for them to clear before starting diethylpropion.
Long term use of diethylpropion is not recommended. If the patient doesn’t respond, keeping a food and exercise diary can help determine if the lifestyle modifications made in association with the medication are sufficient. If they are not, patients might need to make some additional adjustments to start losing weight. Patients who are eating in moderation and exercising reliably may need to try different medications or undergo evaluation to see if there is another medical issue.
