Didrex

Didrex is an appetite suppressant used along with diet, exercise, and behavior therapy for the short-term management of obesity.

Take Didrex about 30 minutes before a meal. Take your last dose of the day at least 4 to 6 hours before bedtime. If you are taking Didrex 1 time a day, take your dose in the morning. Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor.

BENZPHETAMINE - ORAL (benz-FET-uh-meen)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Didrex

USES:
Benzphetamine is used in combination with diet and exercise programs to help you reduce weight.

HOW TO USE:
This medication is best taken on an empty stomach one hour before meals; or take as directed by your doctor. Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take it more often than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. Also, if used for a longer period of time, do not suddenly stop using this without first consulting your doctor. Because this medication may cause sleeplessness, do not take a dose late in the day unless directed to do so by your doctor. When used for extended periods, this medication may not work as well. Consult your doctor if this medication stops working well.

SIDE EFFECTS:
Blurred vision, dizziness, dry mouth, irritability, sleeplessness, stomach upset or constipation may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: chest pain, nervousness, pounding heart, difficulty urinating, mood changes, breathing difficulties, swelling, skin rash. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: high blood pressure, over-active thyroid, glaucoma, diabetes, emotional or mental conditions, substance abuse problems, heart or circulation problems, allergies. If this medication makes you dizzy or lightheaded, use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving. This drug is not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years of age. Benzphetamine should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. This drug may be excreted into breast milk. You may have to stop nursing or stop using this drug. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use, (prescription and nonprescription), especially of: blood pressure medicine, MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., doxepin, imipramine), drugs that affect the pH of urine (e.g., sodium bicarbonate), other drugs used to reduce weight. Alcohol may increase the dizziness effects of this medicine. Limit alcohol use. Avoid "stimulant" drugs that may increase your heart rate such as decongestants or caffeine. Decongestants are commonly found in cough-and-cold medicines. If you are uncertain your medicines contain either of these ingredients, consult your pharmacist. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include restlessness, tremor, rapid breathing, confusion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

NOTES:
Appetite suppressants are not a substitute for proper diet. For maximum effects, this must be used in combination with diet and exercise programs. Do not share this medication with others.

MISSED DOSE:
If you miss a dose, do not double the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.