Cardiovascular: Palpitation, tachycardia, elevated blood pressure, ischemic
events.
Valvular heart disease associated with the use of some anorectic agents such as fenfluramine and dexfenfluramine, both independently and especially when used in combination with other anorectic drugs, have been reported. However, no case of this valvulopathy has been reported when phendimetrazine tartrate has been used alone.
Central Nervous System: Overstimulation, restlessness, insomnia, agitation,
flushing, tremor, sweating, dizziness, headache, psychotic state, blurring of
vision.
Gastrointestinal: Dryness of the mouth, nausea, diarrhea, constipation,
stomach pain.
Genitourinary: Urinary frequency, dysuria, changes in libido.
Drug Abuse And Dependence
Controlled Substance: Bontril® PDM (phendimetrazine tartrate) is
a Schedule lll controlled substance.
Dependence: Phendimetrazine tartrate is related chemically and pharmacologically
to the amphetamines. Amphetamines and related stimulant drugs have been extensively
abused, and the possibility of abuse of phendimetrazine should be kept in mind
when evaluating the desirability of including a drug as part of a weight reduction
program. Abuse of amphetamines and related drugs may be associated with intense
psychological dependence and severe social dysfunction. There are reports of
patients who have increased the dosage to many times that recommended. Abrupt
cessation following prolonged high dosage administration results in extreme
fatigue and mental depression; changes are also noted on the sleep EEG. Manifestations
of chronic intoxication with anorectic drugs include severe dermatoses, marked
insomnia, irritability, hyperactivity and personality changes. The most severe
manifestation of chronic intoxications is psychosis, often clinically indistinguishable
from schizophrenia.