Bontril (phendimetrazine) is a stimulant distributed by Valeant Pharmaceuticals. As an appetite suppressant, it usually is prescribed on a short-term basis (a few weeks), in combination with diet, to help obese individuals lose weight.

The benefits of Bontril tend to decrease within a few weeks and its use therefore is not recommended beyond that period. It is recommended only for people with an initial body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater (27 or greater if the person has other risk factors).

Phendimetrazine is a sympathomimetic amine, which is similar to an amphetamine. It is also known as an "anorectic" or an "anorexigenic" drug. Diethylpropion stimulates the central nervous system (nerves and brain), which increases heart rate and blood pressure and decreases appetite.

No longer a patented drug, phendimetrazine was at one point manufactured and distributed in the United States under a variety of trade names by many pharmaceutical companies.

Some of the trade names this drug was sold under include Adphen, Alphazine, Cam-Metrazine, Di-Metrex, Melfiat, Melfiat-105, Metra, Phenazine, Phenazine-35, Plegine, SPRX-105, SPRX-3, Statobex, Statobex-G, and X-Trozine, and X-Trozine LA. None of these brands are currently on the FDA list of drugs approved for sale in the United States.

However, a generic version of phendimetrazine manufactured by Mikart is still on the FDA approved list.

Warning:

A "black box" warning, the highest category of warning for drugs, has been issued for Bontril, indicating a risk of primary pulmonary hypertension and valvular disease in some users.

Potential users should take this into consideration before embarking on a course of this drug. Common side effects associated with taking Bontril (phendimetrazine) include: restlessness; insomnia; dizziness; tremors; blurred vision; palpitations; constipation; change in sex drive; and a dry mouth.

Less common side effects include very high blood pressure; cardiac arrest; coma; convulsions; and death.

Precautions:

If you are using blood pressure medications, be aware that Bontril has the potential to decrease its effectiveness. If you are using this drug also with MAO inhibitors or with the drug furazolidone (used to treat infectious diarrhea and enteritis), it can raise your blood pressure and increase your risk of stroke.

As this is a schedule II controlled drug, there is a high potential for abuse. Be wary of sustained use, as the potential for addiction to this drug is high. Users who suddenly cease taking Bontril may go through withdrawal – which may include fatigue, insomnia and depression.