Phentermine & Heart Problems

In the mid-1990s, several doctors discovered that combining Fenfluramine and Phentermine led to an increase in weight loss among overweight and obese patients. Fenfluramine stimulates the production of serotonin, the feel-good hormone that regulates mood, while Phentermine causes the body to burn more fat. However, the combination (Fen-Phen) ended up causing heart damage in many patients taking the drugs, and Fenfluramine was pulled from the market.

Phentermine was considered safe for continued use, but current research suggests the drug can also damage the heart, though not as frequently as when used with Fenfluramine. The longer you use Phentermine, or the higher the dose, the greater the risk of damaging your heart.

Primary Pulmonary Hypertension

The most severe side effect caused by using Phentermine or the combination of Fen-Phen is Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (PPH). PPH is a rare lung disorder that causes blood pressure in the lungs to rise without a discernible cause. Drugs can help with PPH, but more severe cases require a lung transplant to ensure survival.

Heart Valve Regurgitation

Another serious side effect of Phentermine is heart valve regurgitation. This is when one of the heart valves fails to close properly, and blood flows back into the heart. Symptoms of mitral, aoritic or tricuspid valve regurgitation include coughing, shortness of breath, cyanosis (lips and fingernails turn blue from lack of oxygen), chest pain, fatigue and fainting. Heart valve regurgitation usually requires surgery to correct.

High Blood Pressure

Even if Phentermine doesn't cause further damage, it can contribute to the formation of high blood pressure, which might or might not progress to PPH. Even a slight elevation of blood pressure above normal range can cause strokes and heart attacks. The development of high blood pressure requires medication and lifestyle modifications to manage.

Atherosclerosis

Phentermine contributes to the development of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is the hardening of the walls of the heart and blood vessels. As the walls harden, they restrict the flow of blood through the vessels and heart. The blood cells clump together and can form clots. Blood clots can lead to heart attacks and strokes.

Addiction

Phentermine shares a similar chemical makeup common to amphetamines. This makes Phentermine possibly addictive, especially if used long-term or at higher doses. Both amphetamines and Phentermine can permanently damage your heart. Because of the health risks, and the possibility of addiction, your doctor has to follow special guidelines when prescribing Phentermine.