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What is diethylpropion?
DIETHYLPROPION (Tenuate Dospan®) is a medicine used to decrease appetite in over weight patients. It is meant to be used only for a short (8—12 weeks) period of time. It should not used along with other diet medications. Generic diethylpropion hydrochloride sustained-release tablets are available.What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:• a history of drug dependence or substance abuse
• abnormal heart rhythm
• an unusual or allergic reaction to diethylpropion, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• breast-feeding
• glaucoma
• high blood pressure
• hyperthyroid
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• seizures
• valvular heart disease
How should I take this medicine?
Take diethylpropion hydrochloride sustained release tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. Do not chew the tablets. The sustained-release (Tenuate Dospan(R)) tablet should be taken in the mid morning only. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your doctor or health care professional even if the medicine makes you feel unwell. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of Tenuate Dospan(R), do not take the tablet if it is later than early afternoon, since it may cause insomnia. Do not use double or extra doses without advice.What drug(s) may interact with diethylpropion?
• amphetamine or dextroamphetamine• caffeine
• furazolidone
• guanethidine or other medicines for blood pressure
• linezolid
• insulin and other medicines for diabetes
• medicines called MAO inhibitors-phenelzine (Nardil(R)), tranylcypromine (Parnate(R)), isocarboxazid (Marplan(R)), selegiline (Eldepryl(R))
• medicines that control moods such as chlorpromazine or antidepressants such as amitriptyline
• other medicines or herbal products for weight loss or to decrease appetite
• procarbazine
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
If you are going to have surgery, tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking diethylpropion.
What should I watch for while taking diethylpropion sustained release tablets?
Visit your prescriber or health care professional for checks on your progress. You need to closely monitor your weight loss. If your rate of weight loss slows down or stops, you may need to stop the medication, and restart after a time without the medication.What side effects may I notice from using diethylpropion sustained release tablets?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:• abnormal heart rate or rhythm
• agitation
• blurred vision
• breast growth in men
• chest pain or tightness in the chest
• confusion
• difficulty with balance
• dizziness
• hallucinations
• menstrual irregularity
• paranoia
• seizures
• shortness of breath or rapid breathing
• tremor
• trouble sleeping
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• blurred vision or itchy eyes
• constipation
• diarrhea
• dry mouth
• flushing of the skin
• hair loss
• headache
• increase or decrease in sexual desire or performance
• nausea / vomiting
• nervousness
• red or itchy skin
• restlessness
• strange taste in your mouth
• upset stomach
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Avoid excessive heat above 40 degrees C (104 degrees F); do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
