Drug Name: DIDREX
BENZPHETAMINE - ORAL (benz-FET-uh-meen)
COMMON DIDREX BRAND NAME(S): Didrex
DIDREX USES: Didrex (Benzphetamine) is used in combination with diet and exercise programs to help you reduce weight. Benzphetamine is a sympathomimetic amine, which is similar to an amphetamine. It is also known as an "anorectic" or "anorexigenic" drug. Benzphetamine stimulates your central nervous system (nerves and brain), which increases your heart rate and blood pressure and decreases your appetite. Do not take benzphetamine in the evening because it may cause insomnia or sleeplessness.
HOW TO USE DIDREX: Didrex (Benzphetamine) is best taken on an empty stomach one hour before meals; or take as directed by your doctor. Take Didrex (Benzphetamine) exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your Didrex (Benzphetamine) dose or take Didrex (Benzphetamine) more often than prescribed because Didrex (Benzphetamine) can be habit-forming. Also, if used Didrex (Benzphetamine) for a longer period of time, do not suddenly stop using this without first consulting your doctor. Because Didrex (Benzphetamine) may cause sleeplessness, do not take a Didrex (Benzphetamine) dose late in the day unless directed to do so by your doctor. When used for extended periods, Didrex (Benzphetamine) may not work as well. Consult your doctor if Didrex (Benzphetamine) stops working well.
DIDREX SIDE EFFECTS: Blurred vision, dizziness, dry mouth, irritability, sleeplessness, stomach upset or constipation may occur while taking Didrex (Benzphetamine). If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience any of the following while taking Didrex: chest pain, nervousness, pounding heart, difficulty urinating, mood changes, breathing difficulties, swelling, skin rash. If you notice other effects while taking Didrex (Benzphetamine) not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
DIDREX PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: high blood pressure, over-active thyroid, glaucoma, diabetes, emotional or mental conditions, substance abuse problems, heart or circulation problems, allergies. If Didrex makes you dizzy or lightheaded, use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving. Didrex (Benzphetamine) is not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years of age. Didrex (Benzphetamine) should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Didrex (Benzphetamine) may be excreted into breast milk. You may have to stop nursing or stop using Didrex. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding if you are taking Didrex.
DIDREX DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use, (prescription and nonprescription drugs), especially of: blood pressure medicine, MAOI inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., doxepin, imipramine), drugs that affect the pH of urine (e.g., sodium bicarbonate), other drugs like Didrex used to reduce weight. Alcohol may increase the dizziness effects of Didrex (Benzphetamine). Limit alcohol use. Avoid "stimulant" drugs that may increase your heart rate such as decongestants or caffeine. Decongestants are commonly found in cough-and-cold medicines. If you are uncertain your medicines contain either of these ingredients, consult your pharmacist. Do not start or stop Didrex or any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
DIDREX OVERDOSE: If Didrex (Benzphetamine) overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of Didrex overdose may include restlessness, tremor, rapid breathing, confusion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
DIDREX NOTES: Appetite suppressants like Didrex are not a substitute for proper diet. For maximum Didrex (Benzphetamine) effects, this must be used in conjunction with a diet and exercise program. Do not share Didrex with others.
MISSED DIDREX DOSE: If you miss a Didrex dose, take Didrex (Benzphetamine) as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next Didrex (Benzphetamine) dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual Didrex (Benzphetamine) dosing schedule. Do not double the Didrex (Benzphetamine) dose to catch up.
DIDREX STORAGE: Store Didrex at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) and place Didrex away from light and moisture.
IMPORTANT DIDREX NOTE: THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS INTENDED TO SUPPLEMENT, NOT SUBSTITUTE FOR, THE EXPERTISE AND JUDGMENT OF YOUR PHYSICIAN, PHARMACIST OR OTHER HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL. IT SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED TO INDICATE THAT USE OF THE DRUG IS SAFE, APPROPRIATE, OR EFFECTIVE FOR YOU. CONSULT YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL BEFORE USING DIDREX.
