Diethylpropion (Tenuate)

Prescriptive, Medical Weight Loss

Diethylpropion, also known as generic Tenuate, is a well-established medication that has been successfully used to treat obesity for almost 60 years. It was approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) in 1959. Since that time, it has helped millions achieve their health and fitness goals.

How it works: Diethylpropion is an appetite suppressant, meaning it decreases the sensation of hunger, cravings, and binge eating. However, it is also a Central Nervous System stimulant, meaning it helps to increase energy level.

How is diethylpropion different from phentermine? Although both medications are used to suppress the appetite and have similar side effects, they are significantly different on the chemical level, which means patients’ bodies may react differently to the drugs. Those who suffer side effects that make continued use of one drug impossible or are not responding to treatment by one may transfer to treatment from the other drug as an alternative.

What to Expect: For your initial visit, you will need to schedule an appointment with our office. Upon arriving for your appointment, you will have a little paperwork to complete and then you will have your consultation with our Nurse Practitioner who will use her discretion (based on the FDA recommendations for treating obesity) to determine if diethylpropion is a safe and good option for you. She will carefully screen you by evaluating your past medical history, any current medications you take, your vital signs, and your body mass index (BMI). You are not a good candidate for diethylpropion if you have uncontrolled hypertension, glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, a history of heart attack and/or stroke, irregular heartbeat, are currently pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you take a medication of the MAOI class.

Diethylpropion is not a simple or quick fix to being overweight. However, it is intended to assist you in the initial phases of your weight loss regimen that includes incorporating healthier nutrition and lifestyle habits. It is our mission to help you achieve your health and weight loss goals through the use of nutritional counseling, fitness education, accountability, and continuous support.

*For follow-up visits, no appointment is necessary; it is only the initial consultation that requires a scheduled appointment.