Constipation From Phentermine? (5 Ways To Relieve It).

In this article, we’ll look into whether phentermine causes constipation, why phentermine causes constipation, and how to easily prevent or relieve it.

Phentermine is an appetite suppressant used in obese and overweight people (in combination with exercise and low-calorie diets or intermittent fasting) to facilitate weight loss.

The drug has been in use for more than five decades and its efficacy is hard to dispute.

A large study compared the efficacy of different weight loss agents and the results associated phentermine with the highest odds of achieving at least 5% weight loss.

Now while phentermine showers you with immense weight loss, it can have some side effects.

This article is going to address one of the most common side effects of phentermine – constipation.

Does Phentermine Cause Constipation?

Yes, phentermine causes constipation. At any dose, constipation from phentermine occurs in more than 10% of people who take the drug.

That makes constipation one of the most common side effects of phentermine.

Other common side effects include paresthesia, dry mouth, dysgeusia, insomnia, and dizziness.

Alongside constipation, phentermine can also often cause bloating.

The next section describes the mechanisms through which phentermine constipates you.

Why Does Phentermine Cause Constipation?

While the exact mechanisms behind which phentermine causes constipation are not fully understood, there are several factors that may contribute to the development of constipation from phentermine.

Here are some possible reasons why phentermine can cause constipation:

1. Reduced GI motility.
   
   Phentermine can affect the normal contractions and movement of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, leading to a slowdown in its natural processes.
   
   This can result in a slower transit time of stool through the intestines contributing to constipation.
   
   
2. Decreased food intake.
   
   Phentermine is an appetite suppressant, which can lead to reduced food intake and calorie consumption.
   
   This decrease in food intake can result in fewer bowel movements and contribute to constipation.
   
   
3. Fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
   
   Phentermine can have diuretic effects, causing increased urine output and potentially leading to dehydration.
   
   Insufficient hydration can affect the moisture content of stool, making it harder and more difficult to pass, resulting in constipation.
   
   
4. Dietary changes.
   
   Individuals taking phentermine may make modifications to their diet as part of their weight loss efforts.
   
   These dietary changes, such as reduced fiber intake or inadequate fluid consumption, can contribute to constipation.

How To Prevent Constipation While On Phentermine.

Here are five simple but effective things you can do to relieve or prevent constipation from phentermine:

1. Drink enough water – and more than that.
   
   This is one of the simple but effective ways to prevent or relieve constipation caused by phentermine.
   
   You already know why it’s important if you understood how phentermine causes constipation.
   
   Take about 2 liters (that’s about 8 standard glasses) of water per day.
   
   You can make it easier for yourself by having an app that tracks your hydration status and prompts you to take water.
   
   While at it, avoid beverages that are known to cause dehydration.
   
   Some of the most common “water-sucking” beverages include coffee, tea, soda, and alcohol.
   
   
2. Watch out for how much fiber you take!
   
   While it’s a common practice to try and combat constipation with fiber, fiber won’t do a lot with some causes of constipation.
   
   Surprisingly, too much fiber (> 70 grams/day) can worsen your constipation.
   
   “There is recent evidence that low fiber intake does not equate to constipation[a]. Patients with chronic constipation also have similar fiber intake to controls[b–c]. Patients with chronic constipation may also have worsening symptoms when dietary fiber intake is increased[d]. Another study found that lactulose was more effective in easing constipation when compared with fiber[e]”,(Kok-Sun Ho et al, 2012).
   
   
3. Exercise frequently.
   
   For your stool to actively move, it will need you to be active.
   
   Different studies have also proved that physical inactivity plays a role in causing constipation.
   
   Inactivity slows down your metabolism rate, this can lead to constipation.
   
   While exercise stimulates bowel movements, it will also go a long way in helping you lose more weight.
   
   
4. Try prunes – the natural laxative.
   
   Prunes are known to be high in sorbitol – a carbohydrate that has laxative properties.
   
   
5. Try over-the-counter treatments.
   
   Before that, ask your doctor whether you can use the drug together with phentermine.
   
   Some possible OTC drugs to help constipation from phentermine include Colace and MiraLax.
   
   However do not take these drugs for more than 14 days, if there is no positive response in a few days consult your doctor.

With adherence to those five things, you should get some relief from constipation without disrupting your phentermine use.

Summary.

Constipation is one of the side effects that occurs with phentermine use.

And while constipation is not so threatening, it might cause a lot of discomfort, and pain, and even slow down your weight loss process.

The five tips listed in this article – getting enough water, optimizing your fiber intake, exercising regularly, taking prunes, and over-the-counter treatments – will substantially help you to stop constipation from phentermine.