Dangers of Phentermine and Alcohol. Effects, Interactions & Treatment.

Can you mix phentermine and alcohol? Using phentermine and alcohol can increase your risk of cardiovascular side effects.


Why Mixing Alcohol and Phentermine Is Dangerous

Can you drink alcohol while taking phentermine? The stakes may seem small on the exterior, but blending phentermine with alcohol can severely weaken Phentermine’s weight loss effects while placing you at danger of several unwanted side effects, including addiction. There are quite a few reasons mixing alcohol and phentermine isn’t a good idea:

  • It makes the risk of severe interactions and negative side effects more likely.
  • It can decrease the efficacy of phentermine.
  • Drinking alcohol isn’t typically a fine idea when trying to lose weight.
  • There is also a prospect for abuse with phentermine and alcohol use.
  • Phentermine may make you more likely to abuse one or both substances and or become addicted.

What Is Phentermine?

Phentermine (Adipex-P, Lomaira) is a prescription drug. It comes in three forms: an oral capsule, an oral tablet, and an orally disintegrating tablet [1]. It can help weight loss by decreasing hunger or making the person feel full longer. Phentermine is also available with topiramate for weight loss (Qsymia). It’s primarily used among those who are obese or who have medical conditions related to being overweight. There are several risks connected to mixing phentermine and alcohol. What happens if you drink alcohol with Phentermine? Learn more by reading this article.

Phentermine is a Schedule IV drug, a classification given to drugs with potential abuse, although the actual potential appears to be low. Although this drug is one of the most commonly prescribed weight-loss medications, it isn’t a good option for individuals with high blood pressure, heart disease, an overactive thyroid gland, or glaucoma. Phentermine isn’t for pregnant women who may become pregnant or are breastfeeding.

How do Phentermine works? It is in a class of drugs known as sympathomimetic amines. The precise mechanism through which phentermine aids in weight loss is unknown. It might function by raising the brain’s production of molecules that suppress appetite. You might eat less, which would help you lose weight. Phentermine is usually prescribed for a short time only, approximately 3-6 weeks. If you suddenly stop using this medication, you may have withdrawal symptoms (such as depression and severe tiredness). To help prevent withdrawal, your doctor may lower your dose slowly. Withdrawal is more likely if you have used phentermine for a long time or in high doses. 

phentermine and alcohol
Can I drink alcohol on phentermine?

Is Phentermine Safe?

Is Phentermine a safe weight loss treatment? The safest and most efficient weight loss methods involve eating a balanced diet and exercising frequently. However, for those for whom diet and exercise alone have not been effective, a weight loss drug like phentermine can be a helpful adjuvant. Despite being one of the world’s most well-known weight-loss drugs, phentermine has some side effects. According to DEA, phentermine is a controlled substance because it is chemically similar to amphetamine, a stimulant. How long after phentermine can I drink alcohol? It is recommended not to take any amount of alcohol, but waiting about 12 hours after taking Phentermine is the ideal time.

Phentermine shouldn’t be used by people with certain health conditions or statuses, including:

  • Heart disease, including heart failure, coronary artery disease, or prior stroke
  • Uncontrolled high blood pressure
  • Hyperthyroidism (too much thyroid hormone)
  • Glaucoma (high eye pressure)
  • High levels of nervousness or anxiety
  • History of drug misuse
  • Pregnancy
  • Nursing (breastfeeding)
  • Allergies to other similar stimulant medications

Phentermine Side Effects

According to the latest statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 93 million adults in the US are obese [2]. In addition, most of the leading causes of premature death, like stroke, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, are related to obesity.  Eating a balanced diet and being physically active are among the best ways to control obesity and reduce your risk of chronic diseases. However, these do not work for some people, so they resort to using weight loss medications such as Phentermine. Though it is generally safe when taken correctly, some people still experience adverse reactions to phentermine.

Common side effects of Phentermine include:

  • Increased heart rate
  • Tingling or prickling feeling in hands or feet
  • Dry mouth
  • Sleeplessness
  • Nervousness
  • Constipation
  • Insomnia
  • Diarrhea
  • Restlessness
  • Hair Loss
  • Muscle cramps
  • Sexual Dysfunction

More Serious side effects of phentermine include:

  • Palpitations and Hypertension
  • Palpitations and Hypertension
  • Allergic Reaction
  • Blurred Vision
  • Depression
  • Tremors
Ryan Zofay forming a circle and hugging friends.

Get Your Life Back

Find Hope & Recovery. Get Safe Comfortable Detox, Addiction Rehab & Mental Health Dual Diagnosis High-Quality Care at the We Level Up Treatment Centers Network.

Hotline (877) 378-4154

How Does Phentermine Work in the Body?

Phentermine is an anorectic (appetite suppressant). It helps the person lose weight by suppressing the appetite and thus limiting the number of calories the person eats. Over time, a low-calorie diet leads to a reduction in body weight.

Scientists do not fully understand how phentermine suppresses the appetite. Phentermine is believed to work by increasing the levels of certain brain chemicals (neurotransmitters). When neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine are high, the person feels less hungry.

Each tablet contains inactive ingredients: starch, lactose anhydrous, microcrystalline cellulose, colloidal silicon dioxide, stearic acid, magnesium stearate, and blue sugar spheres. Though the FDA approved it for fewer than 12 weeks of short-term use, healthcare professionals often prescribe phentermine off-label for more extended use.

What Are The Effects of Phentermine on the Brain?

Phentermine is a central nervous stimulant. Experts aren’t exactly sure how phentermine works. Still, it appears to have multiple actions, including stimulating neurons to release the neurotransmitters (dopamine and norepinephrine), which may account for its appetite-suppressing effects.

Since phentermine increases serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine levels to function, it has stimulating effects similar to amphetamines. The drug is a strictly regulated medicine often prescribed for short-term use and is not suggested for persons with a history of drug abuse. 

Like alcohol, phentermine can have some effects on the brain. However, as a stimulant, phentermine’s effects on the brain are different from alcohol and phentermine include:

  • Overstimulation
  • Restlessness
  • Dizziness
  • Insomnia
  • Euphoria
  • Mood changes
  • Tremors
  • Headache
  • Psychosis
phentermine and alcohol
Can you have alcohol with phentermine? Phentermine is similar to amphetamine and acts by releasing a chemical called noradrenaline in the brain.

First-class Facilities & Amenities

World-class High-Quality Addiction & Mental Health Rehabilitation Treatment

Rehab Centers Tour

Renowned Addiction Centers. Serene Private Facilities. Inpatient rehab programs vary.

Addiction Helpline (877) 378-4154

Proven recovery success experience, backed by a Team w/ History of:

15+

Years of Unified Experience

100s

5-Star Reviews Across Our Centers

10K

Recovery Success Stories Across Our Network

  • Low Patient to Therapist Ratio
  • Onsite Medical Detox Center
  • Comprehensive Dual-Diagnosis Treatment
  • Complimentary Family & Alumni Programs
  • Coaching, Recovery & Personal Development Events

can you drink alcohol while taking phentermine?

Even though it is possible to consume alcohol while taking phentermine, caution should be applied. This is because alcohol’s interaction with phentermine could result in adverse side effects and other issues. The main problem is that alcohol can cause already present side effects to become more severe. Additionally, if these have not been experienced, mixing phentermine with alcohol can increase the risk of developing these side effects.

Can I drink alcohol while taking phentermine? Those who use phentermine risk abusing it or developing an addiction, even without mixing it with alcohol. It is a stimulant substance that, especially when taken in high quantities, has the potential to cause a high. Alcohol alone can already cause a person to experience various side effects – and the substance is addictive. It is generally recommended that patients refrain from drinking alcohol on phentermine. Healthcare providers advise against drinking alcohol with phentermine to prevent possible harmful effects. How many hours after taking phentermine can you drink alcohol? You can usually drink alcohol about 12 hours after the dose. It is still highly advisable not to drink in the first place.

Drinking Alcohol While Taking Phentermine Top FAQs

  1. Can you drink alcohol while taking phentermine 37.5mg

    You should avoid drinking alcohol while you are taking phentermine 37.5mg. In addition, avoid any activities like driving or operating hazardous machinery until you are alert.

  2. Is mixing Phentermine 37.5 and alcohol risky?

    Abusing phentermine and alcohol can increase your risk of cardiovascular negative side effects such as: Increased heart rate, chest pains, along with increases in blood pressure.

How long after taking phentermine can I drink alcohol? Can I drink alcohol 12 hours after taking phentermine? Generally speaking, you should wait 12 hours after drinking alcohol before taking phentermine because of how long the effects last. This must be done to prevent their combination and the above-mentioned severe responses. The adverse effects of phentermine are substantially increased when combined with alcohol.

Phentermine and Alcohol Interaction

Can I drink alcohol with phentermine? Alcohol is known to irritate the stomach, and those who choose to drink alcohol while taking Phentermine frequently have gastrointestinal side effects. They might feel queasy as a result, and they might even start to throw up. Additionally, possible adverse effects include stomachaches and heartburn, which are typical.

Can you drink alcohol while on phentermine? It’s also crucial to remember that phentermine alcohol interaction increases the risk of experiencing adverse effects related to the cardiovascular system. When using either, the patient’s heart rate may increase even more, and their blood pressure may rise abnormally. There may also be chest discomfort.

World-class, Accredited, 5-Star Reviewed, Effective Addiction & Mental Health Programs. Complete Behavioral Health Inpatient Rehab, Detox plus Co-occuring Disorders Therapy.

CALL (877) 378-4154

End the Addiction Pain. End the Emotional Rollercoaster. Get Your Life Back. Start Drug, Alcohol & Dual Diagnosis Mental Health Treatment Now. Get Free No-obligation Guidance by Substance Abuse Specialists Who Understand Addiction & Mental Health Recovery & Know How to Help.

fluconazole-and-alcohol
Can you drink alcohol while taking Adipex? Phentermine has several stimulant-related side effects, like headaches, dizziness, tingling in your hands and feet, and heart palpitations.

Phentermine and Alcohol Side Effects

Can you drink alcohol on phentermine? Alcohol use while taking phentermine is not advised. First, taking alcohol and phentermine is likely to have more negative interactions and adverse effects than using either drug alone. For instance, phentermine side effects may include heart-related symptoms, including elevated blood pressure and problems with heart rhythm. When phentermine alcohol combinations are used, these adverse cardiac effects may worsen.

Central Nervous System (CNS) Side Effects of Phentermine and Alcohol:

The effects of phentermine interactions with alcohol on your central nervous system (CNS) can lead to the following:

  • Drowsiness
  • Depression
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Dizziness

Gastrointestinal Side Effects of Phentermine and Alcohol

People who combine Adipex and alcohol frequently experience effects on the digestive tract. mostly because alcohol irritates the stomach lining. This may result in the following:

  • Stomach aches
  • Heartburn
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

Cardiovascular Side Effects of Phentermine and Alcohol

Any heart-related side effect has the potential to be harmful. After all, your life is over when your heart quits beating and fails!

Mixing alcohol with phentermine can lead to the following:

  • Chest pain
  • Increased heart rate
  • Abnormal increases in blood pressure
  • Heart failure, especially if you have an underlying medical condition (e.g., heart disease)

Signs of a heart-related emergency include the following:

  • Fast or abnormal heartbeat
  • Dizziness
  • Trouble breathing
  • Chest pain
  • Shakiness
  • Fatigue (a weakness that doesn’t go away)
  • Unexplained swelling in your arms or legs

Psychological Effects of Phentermine and Alcohol

Known side effects of phentermine include anxiety, depression, and other mental diseases. Can I drink alcohol while on phentermine? Alcohol can make these unpleasant emotions worse. Alcohol, on the other hand, can also lower inhibitions. As a result, you are more inclined to make impulsive choices that could harm your body. can you drink alcohol with phentermine? Alcohol may make you want to eat more or forget that you are on a diet, whereas phentermine lowers appetite. Generally, it is not recommended to drink when under any medication.

Experience Transformative Recovery at the We Level Up Treatment Center.

See our authentic success stories. Get inspired. Get the help you deserve.

We Level Up Treatment Centers for Drug Alcohol Rehab Detox Behavioral Mental Health Dual Diagnosis Therapy
We Level Up Treatment Centers for Drug Alcohol Rehab Detox Behavioral Mental Health Dual Diagnosis Therapy
We Level Up Treatment Centers for Drug Alcohol Rehab Detox Behavioral Mental Health Dual Diagnosis Therapy
Voluntarily testimonials from the We Level Up Treatment Center network vary. Not intended as a guaranteed treatment or outcome as each person's journey is unique.

Start a New Life

Begin with a free call to an addiction & behavioral health treatment advisor. Learn more about our dual-diagnosis programs. The We Level Up treatment center network delivers various recovery programs at each treatment facility. Call to learn more.

  • Personalized Care
  • Caring Accountable Staff
  • World-class Amenities
  • Licensed & Accredited
  • Renowned w/ 5-Star Reviews

We’ll Call You

Does Alcohol Affect Phentermine?

Phentermine is an appetite suppressant. Your risk of experiencing major adverse effects from the medication, such as elevated heart rate and blood pressure, headache, sleeplessness, seizures, or tremors, may rise if you drink alcohol. Additionally, it might raise the pressure inside the brain, resulting in neurological issues like eyesight issues. It is not recommended to take alcohol phentermine together since it may worsen some side effects.

Combining Phentermine and alcohol can result in much more significant consequences if you have alcohol dependence concerns. Like alcohol, phentermine is physically addictive and alters the chemical balance of the brain, which can result in withdrawal symptoms.

phentermine and alcohol blackout

What Is an Alcohol Blackout? The term “blackout” refers to memory loss caused by a fast spike in blood alcohol level (BAC). It may also be referred to as “alcohol-induced amnesia.” Alcohol blackout differs from passing out, although a lot of people tend to confuse the two. A person who is blackout drunk is still conscious and making decisions. They may even appear to hold conversations, even if they experience memory loss when drinking.

There are two types of blackouts; the severity of the memory impairment defines them. The most common type is called a “fragmentary blackout” and is characterized by spotty memories for events, with “islands” of memories separated by missing periods in between. This type is sometimes referred to as a gray out or a brownout.

Complete amnesia, often spanning hours, is known as an “en bloc” blackout. With this severe form of a blackout, memories of events do not form and typically cannot be recovered. It is as if the events never occurred.

Can Phentermine Be Abused?

Is Phentermine addictive? Considering the prevalence of weight loss promises in America, it’s no surprise that Diet Pills are common and available in multiple forms. Whether over-the-counter or prescription, each Diet Pill has its risks and concerns. It is important to remember that just because something is available freely at the drugstore, or prescribed by a doctor, does not necessarily mean it is safe — mainly when used outside of the recommended dose or method.

The structure and pharmacological effects of phentermine are similar to those of amphetamine. Consequently, phentermine can be physically and psychologically addictive. Therefore, people with a history of drug dependence should avoid using the drug. How long after taking phentermine can you drink alcohol? It is recommended to wait about 12 hours after drinking alcohol before taking phentermine because of how long the effects last.

Long-term use of Phentermine can cause addiction and physical dependence. That is why Phentermine is allowed only for short-term use. SmithKline Beecham’s brand of phentermine, Fastin, was removed from the market in 1996. A compound of Phentermine and fenfluramine or dexfenfluramine was removed from the market because the drug dramatically increased the risk of heart valve disease.

Can You Snort Phentermine?

Snorting is common drug abuse in which people take a powdered or crushed-up drug and forcefully breathe it into the nasal cavity. Snorting is often a sign of developing an addiction. When someone snorts a drug, 30% to 60% of the drug enters the bloodstream through the mucus membrane in the nose and the stomach. Users usually feel the effects of the drug within 15 minutes. Phentermine is a stimulant similar to amphetamines, so people may try to snort phentermine for a potent high.

Can You Smoke Phentermine?

Aside from snorting, smoking is another common way to introduce drugs into your body, and it may be used in the recreational use of phentermine. Smoking is rarely used to introduce a prescription drug when treating patients. That may be because it comes with some inherent risks. Though, some medications may be inhaled, like asthma medication. However, inhaled vaporized medication is different from inhaled burned substances. Again, the difference is water. Vaporized medications are inhaled in the form of tiny water droplets that contain active ingredients. Smoke from a burned substance like phentermine or even inert substances is different.

Smoke can irritate your throat, mouth, and lungs. It may dry out these areas and cause inflammation, coughing, shortness of breath, and a sore throat. Of course, active drugs like phentermine may be even more dangerous than inert substances. Long-term smoking can cause lung damage, which hinders lung function and leads to severe problems. Some substances may contribute to throat, lung, and mouth cancer.

Alcoholism Treatment

Inpatient treatment is the most effective method for those in need since it focuses on altering one’s habits. Additionally, it assists individuals in developing more robust coping mechanisms for stress even after treatment and social support networks. Our top objective is, above all, ensuring your long-term sobriety.

You’ll probably experience many withdrawal symptoms or negative effects from your drug use. These side effects could be mental, emotional, or physical. For instance, throughout the detox process, a person going through withdrawal is likely to feel uncomfortable often and have bad ideas about life. Detox is a necessary first step in treatment for those dependent on Phentermine and alcohol use.

Do not attempt to get treatment alone due to your concerns and withdrawal anxiety. Without medical supervision, the treatment process can generally be painful and challenging. Detox, though, must be completed to continue receiving assistance.

We Level Up NJ is always available to help. So call us immediately to talk with one of our medical experts and take back your life. Above all, our consultants know your situation and are there to answer any concerns you may have.

phentermine and alcohol
Diet pills can cause severe and dangerous side effects, so they should only be used under medical supervision. Learn more about the dangers of snorting Phentermine.
Search Phentermine and Alcohol Rehab / Detox & Mental Health Topics & Resources