Is There a Difference in Adipex & Phentermine Effectiveness?

Adipex is an appetite suppressant, classified as an anorectic, that is widely prescribed for assistance in weight loss. Phentermine, the generic form of Adipex, is the most widely prescribed diet pill on the market today, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

Adipex vs Phentermine

Adipex and phentermine both contain the active ingredient phentermine hydrochloride, which affects the central nervous system by suppressing the appetite. When the appetite is decreased, and a smaller number of calories are consumed each day, Adipex and phentermine can both be effective for short-term weight loss along with an exercise plan.

Types

Adipex and phentermine are both taken orally and are dispensed in strengths ranging from 15 to 37.5 milligrams. Adipex is manufactured by Gate Pharmaceuticals and is only available in a strength of 37.5 milligrams, as opposed to the generic form, phentermine, which is produced by a variety of companies and dispensed in dosages starting at 15 milligrams. The drug's effectiveness in appetite control and energy level can depend on which strength you are prescribed.

Benefits

Both phentermine and Adipex are prescription medications, and a consultation must be completed by a physician to justify the need for this drug. According to studies published by the American College of Physicians, patients taking this medication lost an average of eight pounds during a two- to 24-week trial period 2.

Manufacturing

The ingredients used in Adipex and phentermine pills differ slightly, and this can cause the effectiveness or rate at which the drug is absorbed by the body to vary in patients. Manufacturers use different formulas to create tablets and capsules for the same name-brand drug, so effectiveness can even fluctuate from an Adipex tablet to an Adipex capsule.

Side effects

Adipex and phentermine share the same long list of possible side effects, as their active ingredients are identical. Some of the symptoms one might experience while taking either of these drugs are rapid heart rate, increased blood pressure, headache, dizziness, dry mouth, and insomnia 1.