Phentermine Contraindications
Phentermine hydrochloride is contraindicated in specific conditions listed in the FDA-approved prescribing information. These contraindications do not list fatty liver disease or hepatic steatosis as a contraindication. [1]
Hepatic Steatosis and Fatty Liver Disease
Fatty liver disease (hepatic steatosis) is not included among the labeled contraindications for phentermine. [1]
Hepatic Impairment Considerations in Labeling
The FDA-approved labeling for phentermine hydrochloride provides dosing guidance for renal impairment but does not provide dose-limiting contraindications for hepatic impairment in the listed contraindications section. [1]
Key Safety-Critical Contraindications to Screen
Major labeled contraindications include the following. [1]
- History of cardiovascular disease (e.g., coronary artery disease, stroke, arrhythmias, congestive heart failure, uncontrolled hypertension). [1]
- Use during or within 14 days following monoamine oxidase inhibitor therapy. [1]
- Hyperthyroidism. [1]
- Glaucoma. [1]
- Agitated states. [1]
- History of drug abuse. [1]
- Pregnancy. [1]
- Nursing. [1]
- Known hypersensitivity or idiosyncrasy to sympathomimetic amines. [1]
Clinical Nuance for Patients With Liver Disease
Phentermine therapy should still be managed cautiously in patients with chronic liver disease because the labeling emphasizes patient-level risk factors and comorbidities that can increase adverse-event risk, even though fatty liver is not listed as a contraindication. [1]