Weight Loss Drugs: Bontril

What is BONTRIL?
BONTRIL is a sympathomimetic amine, which is similar to an amphetamine. It is also known as an “anorectic” or “anorexigenic” drug.

How does BONTRIL work?
BONTRIL stimulates the central nervous system (nerves and brain), which increases your heart rate and blood pressure and decreases your appetite. BONTRIL is used as a short-term supplement to diet and exercise in the treatment of obesity.

How should I take BONTRIL?
Take BONTRIL exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. Take each dose with a full glass of water. BONTRIL is usually taken once a day (sustained release formula) or two to three times daily (immediate-release formula) before meals on an empty stomach. Do not take BONTRIL in the evening because it may cause insomnia. Do not crush, chew, or open any “once-daily” phendimetrazine tablets or capsules. Swallow them whole. Never take more of this medication that is prescribed for you. Too much BONTRIL could be very dangerous to your health.

Most important facts about BONTRIL.
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. BONTRIL may cause dizziness, blurred vision, or restlessness, and it may hide the symptoms of extreme tiredness. If you experience these effects, avoid hazardous activities.

BONTIL is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on this medication, and withdrawal effects may occur if you stop taking it suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Talk to your doctor about stopping this medication gradually.

How long should I take BONTRIL?
Your doctor will determine how long you should take BONTRIL. Follow your doctor’s advice.

Who should not take BONTRIL?

You cannot take BONTRIL if you have heart disease or high blood pressure; have arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries); have glaucoma; have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), or phenelzine (Nardil) in the last 14 days; or have a history of drug or alcohol abuse.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have problems with your thyroid; an anxiety disorder; epilepsy or another seizure disorder; or diabetes. You may not be able to take BONTRIL, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

It is not known whether BONTRIL will harm an unborn baby. Do not take BONTRIL without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is also not known whether BONTRIL passes into breast milk. Do not take BONTRIL without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

What are the possible side effects of BONTRIL?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking BONTRIL and seek emergency medical attention:
An allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
An irregular heartbeat or very high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision); or hallucinations, abnormal behavior, or confusion.
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take BONTRIL and talk to your doctor if you experience: restlessness or tremor; nervousness or anxiety; headache or dizziness; insomnia; dry mouth or an unpleasant taste in your mouth; diarrhea or constipation; or impotence or changes in your sex drive.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect BONTRIL?
BONTRIL may reduce the effects of guanethidine (Ismelin). This could lead to an increase in blood pressure. Tell your doctor if you are taking guanethidine.
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking a tricyclic antidepressant such as amitriptyline (Elavil), amoxapine (Asendin), doxepin (Sinequan), nortriptyline (Pamelor), imipramine (Tofranil), clomipramine (Anafranil), protriptyline (Vivactil), or desipramine (Norpramin). These drugs may decrease the effects of BONTRIL.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with BONTRIL. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

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