Why is phentermine a controlled substance?
Phentermine is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance by the DEA because it is a prescription stimulant medication with potential for abuse and dependence, though the risk is considered relatively low compared to other controlled substances.
Phentermine is a sympathomimetic amine that increases brain neurotransmitters (norepinephrine, dopamine, serotonin), creating abuse potential through appetite suppression for weight loss, increased energy and alertness, mood elevation with temporary euphoria, enhanced focus, and insomnia from stimulation. These effects are similar to amphetamines, and effects that drug misusers may seek.
Other Schedule IV controlled substances include benzodiazepines such as lorazepam and clonazepam; sleep medications such as zolpidem (Ambien) and eszopiclone (Lunesta); and tramadol.
Key Reasons for Phentermine's Controlled Status:
- Stimulant properties: Chemically similar to amphetamines
- Abuse potential: Can be misused for weight loss or energy
- Dependence risk: May cause physical and psychological dependence.
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What are the DEA Prescription Rules for Phentermine?
The rules set by the DEA for all Schedule IV controlled substances, such as phentermine are:
- Low to moderate abuse potential: Less than Schedule II or III drugs
- Prescription required: Cannot be obtained over-the-counter. Must be prescribed by licensed healthcare providers
- Maximum refills: 5 refills allowed per prescription
- Prescription validity: Must be used within 6 months of issue date
- Accepted medical use: FDA-approved for weight loss treatment
- No phone orders: Written or electronic prescription required
- Doctor supervision: Regular monitoring by prescribing physician
- Pharmacy tracking: Dispensing data reported to state databases.
References
- Drug Scheduling. DEA. United States Drug Enforcement Administration. https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/drug-scheduling
- Phentermine. Drugs.com https://www.drugs.com/phentermine.html
Read next
Mounjaro vs Ozempic: Which is right for you?
Mounjaro and Ozempic are prescription medicines used alongside diet and exercise to help control blood sugar (glucose) levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. Ozempic is also approved to lower the risk of a major cardiovascular event (like a heart attack or stroke) in patients with type 2 diabetes, as well as to reduce the risk of worsening kidney disease and heart-related death in patients with type 2 diabetes. Mounjaro has not yet received these indications, although studies are ongoing.
In a large, 2024 retrospective study in adults with overweight or obesity and treated for type 2 diabetes, Mounjaro led to at least a 5% weight loss within one year in 81.8% of adults compared to 66.5% of those using Ozempic. Continue reading
Zepbound vs. Mounjaro: Comparison Guide for Weight Loss and Diabetes Treatment
Zepbound and Mounjaro contain the same active ingredient (tirzepatide) and both are made by Eli Lilly and Company, but they have different FDA approved uses and insurance coverage. Zepbound is approved for chronic weight management and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and Mounjaro is approved for type 2 diabetes.
Continue reading
Ozempic Side Effects to Watch For
The most common Ozempic side effects with Ozempic include stomach problems, like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain and constipation. These tend to be mild-to-moderate and usually clear up in a few weeks in most people. Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is also a common side effect (when used with certain other diabetes treatments) and it can be serious. Continue reading
See also:
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Drug information
- Phentermine Information for Consumers
- Phentermine prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Phentermine (detailed)
- Phentermine user reviews (3,017)
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