How does phentermine assist with weight loss?

Study for the American Board of Obesity Medicine Exam. Master multiple choice questions with detailed explanations. Enhance your test readiness!

Phentermine aids in weight loss primarily by stimulating the hypothalamus to release norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in appetite regulation and energy expenditure. When norepinephrine is released, it generates a state of increased alertness and decreased feelings of hunger. This reduction in appetite can lead to decreased caloric intake, facilitating weight loss efforts. Norepinephrine also enhances the body’s energy levels, which can motivate individuals to increase physical activity, further contributing to weight management.

The other options do not accurately represent the mechanism of action for phentermine. While inhibiting carbohydrate digestion, blocking fat absorption, and slowly metabolizing carbohydrates can contribute to weight management through other means, none of these actions are how phentermine operates within the body. Instead, its effectiveness lies in its ability to modulate appetite through neurochemical pathways in the brain.

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