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Phentermine Program Basics
Phentermine is an oral appetite-suppressant medication that has been used in weight management for decades. At FRDC it is offered as a monthly program paired with B12 injections where clinically appropriate, priced at $84/month for the medication.
How phentermine works
Phentermine is a sympathomimetic amine. It acts on the central nervous system to reduce appetite signals, which makes a reduced-calorie plan easier to sustain. It does not change how your body absorbs food.
Because it is stimulant-like, it can raise heart rate and blood pressure and can interfere with sleep if taken late in the day. Those effects are the reason it needs monitoring rather than casual use.
Who it may not suit
Clinicians generally avoid phentermine in uncontrolled hypertension, significant cardiovascular disease, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, a history of stimulant misuse, pregnancy, and with certain antidepressants including MAO inhibitors.
Your evaluation covers these before anything is prescribed. Medication and dosing are always determined by your clinician after evaluation.
The B12 component
B12 injections are offered at $15 per injection. B12 supports normal red blood cell formation and neurological function; it is supportive care and is not itself a weight-loss treatment. At FRDC, B12 injections are also started per protocol at the 15 mg Mounjaro step for patients on tirzepatide.
Monitoring and duration
Monthly visits are standard so blood pressure, heart rate, sleep, mood, and response can be reviewed. Phentermine is typically used for shorter courses than GLP-1 therapy, and your clinician will set the duration and any breaks.
Protein intake and resistance activity are emphasized throughout to help protect lean mass.
How results are discussed at FRDC
Your clinician sets your goals — many plans target 10–16 lbs/month with strict protein protocols; individual results vary.
Medication and dosing are always determined by your clinician after evaluation.
Frequently asked questions
- How much does the phentermine program cost?
- Medication is $84/month. The clinic/visit fee is $150/month. B12 injections are $15 per injection.
- Is phentermine a controlled substance?
- Yes, it is a scheduled medication in the United States, which is one reason in-person or telehealth follow-up with a licensed clinician is required.
- Can phentermine be combined with a GLP-1?
- Combination decisions are made only by your clinician after evaluation.
Keep reading
- Weight Loss With Insurance in Maryland
How insurance coverage for medical weight loss works in Maryland, what to ask your plan, and how FRDC verifies benefits.
- Self-Pay Weight Loss Costs, Explained
A transparent breakdown of self-pay pricing for medical weight loss at First Response Doctors Clinic in Maryland.
- Prior Authorization for GLP-1 Medications
Prior authorization is a plan requirement that your clinician document specific criteria before the pharmacy benefit will pay for a medication. It is the m
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