Phentermine is a prescription medication primarily used for short-term weight loss management in individuals who are overweight or obese. It belongs to a class of drugs known as sympathomimetic amines, which work by suppressing appetite and stimulating the release of certain chemicals in the brain that help control appetite.
Phentermine is typically prescribed for people with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or those with a BMI of 27 or higher with obesity-related conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. It is used as part of a comprehensive weight loss plan that includes a reduced-calorie diet, exercise, and behavior modification.