Month: February 2022

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Health Weight Loss

Duromine vs Panbesy: Which Is More Effective For Weight Loss?

Duromine vs Panbesy: Which Is More Effective For Weight Loss?
Image credit: Siena Health

Fat burners, calorie cutters, and appetite suppressants are just a few of the common claims made by the many weight-loss supplements on the market. It makes sense if you are hesitant to try them, especially if you are unsure about their success rates and side effects.

Fortunately, there are several FDA-approved, scientifically-proven prescription medications that can improve your chances of dropping those pounds — and keeping them off. Among them are two brands that are available in Singapore, Duromine and Panbesy.

So, what are their differences and which is better for weight loss? Read on to find out.

What Are The Similarities Between Duromine and Panbesy?

Duromine and Panbesy contain the same active ingredient, phentermine. 

Phentermine is an anorectic agent (an agent that suppresses appetite). It works by stimulating the release of chemical messengers or neurotransmitters (i.e. norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamineare) in the brain. With the increase in the levels of these chemicals in your brain, you feel full and therefore eat less. Over time, this can lead to weight loss, especially if accompanied by a proper diet and exercise.

Who Is Duromine/Panbesy Typically Prescribed To?

Like other prescription weight-loss drugs, Duromine/Panbesy is intended to be used as part of an overall weight-loss plan. Use of prescription weight-loss medications is typically reserved for people who:

  • Have a BMI of 30 or greater (severe obesity); or
  • Have a BMI of 27 or greater (moderate obesity) with the presence of a weight-related disease or complication such as Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure

It is indicated for people who are obese, and who have failed to lose enough weight with diet and exercise alone — not for people who want to lose just a few pounds.

How Much Weight Can You Lose On Duromine/Panbesy?

Several clinical studies have shown that Duromine/Panbesy can support meaningful weight loss.

One small study from South Korea showed that almost 86% of people who were overweight or obese taking phentermine for 14 weeks lost more than 5% of their body weight. Another South Korean study looked specifically at people who have obesity (not overweight) and used phentermine for a 12-week course. It found that almost 96% of them lost more than 5% of their body weight, and 62% of the same group lost more than 10% of their body weight.

While Duromine/Panbesy is FDA-approved for short-term use of fewer than 12 weeks, healthcare professionals often prescribe phentermine off-label for longer use. Doctors may prescribe it intermittently, meaning you take a break from the medication for a set period of time before resuming it.

What Are The Side Effects Of Duromine/Panbesy?

The most commonly reported side effects of Duromine/Panbesy are:

  • dry mouth
  • insomnia
  • dizziness
  • heart palpitations
  • skin flushing
  • fatigue
  • constipation
  • irritability
  • nausea
  • vomiting

Just like all other medications, not everyone will experience side effects after taking Duromine/Panbesy. The severity of the side effects differs among individuals as well.

What Is The Difference Between Duromine and Panbesy?

The main difference lies in how phentermine is present in the two products.

Each Duromine capsule contains phentermine enclosed in a complex, released continuously over a 10 to 14 hour period. Meanwhile, phentermine in Panbesy exists as an ion and is absorbed over 3 to 4.4 hours.

There will be a longer-lasting and equal appetite suppression throughout the day with  Duromine as phentermine is released more slowly. On the other hand, all of the phentermine present in a Panbesy capsule is released at once and appetite suppression will subside gradually with time, therefore its effect is not as long-lasting.

Since phentermine is slowly absorbed into your bloodstream in smaller amounts after taking Duromine, the risk of side effects is lower. There will be higher levels of phentermine in the bloodstream initially with Panbesy as everything is released at once. This translates to a higher risk of side effects when taking Panbesy.

Which Is Better, Duromine vs Panbesy?

Ultimately, both medicines are approved for weight loss in obese people who have other risk factors like controlled hypertension. They are two of the most established weight loss pills frequently prescribed by doctors. Duromine and Panbesy, based on the same active ingredient used, have similar effectiveness – more than 5% body weight lost in 12 weeks on average.

If you are looking for a medicine that has a longer-lasting effect in curbing your appetite, Duromine is definitely the more outstanding candidate.

Where To Buy Duromine Or Panbesy In Singapore?

Being obese puts you at risk for more health complications, like diabetes and heart disease. When you don’t see the desired weight loss results despite efforts to change your diet or lifestyle, seeking professional help may be necessary as reducing the risk of more serious health complications as soon as possible is the top priority.

There are many websites selling Duromine, Panbesy and other anti-obesity medications which may not be scientifically proven to be safe or effective. However, do not fall into the trap of convenience of purchasing these medicines from unreliable sites and sellers! Remember that you can only obtain such medications if a qualified doctor prescribes them to you and you should only take them according to his instructions.

If you’re looking for convenience and getting approved medications for weight loss, turn to Siena instead! Gone are the days when you have to wait in line to visit the doctor. With us, you can speak to an SG-registered doctor about your weight loss issues online via a teleconsultation. We’ll deliver the medicines to your home if prescribed, in discreet packaging and at no additional cost. Simply complete this online questionnaire to get started today!

References

  • Ding H (2016). Modified-release drug products and drug devices. Shargel L, & Yu A.C.(Eds.), Applied Biopharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics, 7e. McGraw Hill. Accessed December 17, 2021.
  • Kim, H. O., et al (2013, September). Postmarketing surveillance study of the efficacy and safety of phentermine in patients with obesity. Korean journal of family medicine, 34(5), 298–306. https://doi.org/10.4082/kjfm.2013.34.5.298 
  • MIMS. Phentermine: Indication, Dosage, Side Effect, Precaution.https://www.mims.com/singapore/drug/info/phentermine
Categories
Birth Control

EVRA® Transdermal Birth Control Patch: How It Works, Potential Side Effects And Where To Buy In Singapore

EVRA® Transdermal Birth Control Patch: How It Works, Potential Side Effects And Where To Buy In Singapore
Image credit: Siena Health

Do you find it difficult to remember to take a pill every day? Do you have difficulty swallowing pills?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, the birth control patch could be a viable option for you! Both birth control pills and patches use hormones to prevent pregnancy, but the way the hormones are delivered differs. You apply the patch to your skin once a week and forget about it.

In this article, we share all you need to know about the EVRA® Transdermal Patch. Read on to learn more about:

  • How it works;
  • How to use it; 
  • What to do if you missed a patch;
  • Potential side effects; and
  • How to buy EVRA® Transdermal Patch in Singapore.

What Is EVRA® Transdermal Patch? 

The EVRA® Transdermal Patch is a small, beige sticky patch that contains 2 hormones:

  • Progestin (6mg norelgestromin); and
  • Estrogen (0.6mg ethinyl estradiol).

The patch works by releasing hormones into your body through your skin to prevent pregnancy.

The patch is mainly used as contraception to prevent pregnancy. However, women using the EVRA® Transdermal Patch may also benefit from the non-contraceptive effects of estrogen such as:

How Does EVRA® Transdermal Patch Work? 

After the patch is in place, it delivers a steady dose of hormones through your skin and into your bloodstream.

EVRA® Transdermal Patch prevents pregnancy by:

  • Inhibiting ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary;
  • Thickening the cervical mucus (the fluid in the vaginal tract), such that it is hard for the sperm to reach the egg to fertilise it;
  • Thinning of the uterine lining, such that even if an egg is fertilised, it will be unable to attach to the uterus. The fertilised egg will instead be passed out of the body.

How Effective Is EVRA® Transdermal Patch?

When used perfectly, EVRA® Transdermal Patch is more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. It is typically 91% effective (in events of missed applications or improper storage etc.), according to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Birth control patches are generally more effective than male condoms in preventing pregnancy — male condoms are 98% effective when used perfectly, and 82% effective in typical use. However, it is important to note that birth control patches do not protect women against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), unlike male condoms.

Therefore, it is recommended to use dual protection of condoms and non-barrier contraceptives such as birth control patches during any sexual activity.

How To Use EVRA® Transdermal Patch?

Each pack of EVRA® Transdermal Patch contains 3 patches. Apply your first patch and wear it for 7 days. On day 8, change the patch to a new one. Change the patch every week for 3 weeks, and then have a patch-free week.

During your patch-free week, you’ll get a withdrawal bleed, like a period, although this may not always happen.

After 7 patch-free days, apply a new patch and start the 4-week cycle again. Start your new cycle even if you’re still bleeding.

Where to put the patch:

  • ​Always put your patch on clean, dry and hairless skin.
  • Put it on the buttock, abdomen, upper outer arm or upper back.
  • Put it on places where it won’t be rubbed by tight clothing.
  • Do not put on the breast or waistline, and on any open wounds, cuts or irritated skin.
  • Do not use adhesive or wraps to hold the patch in place.
  • Do not use creams, oils, lotions, powder or other skin care products on the application site. The patch may not stick well.

How to open the patch:

  • Open the foil sachet by tearing it along the edge with your fingers.
  • Peel away half of the clear protective covering without touching the sticky surface.

How to put the patch:

  • Put the patch on your skin and remove the other half of the protective covering.
  • Press down firmly on the patch with the palm of your hand for 10 seconds, making sure the edges stick well.

What To Do If The Patch Becomes Loose, Lifts At The Edges Or Falls Off?

Usually, the patch remains sticky, even if you get sweaty while exercising or take a shower. On rare occasions where the patch loosens (less than 3% of patches) or falls off (less than 2% of patches), you can follow the below steps to ensure you are still protected against pregnancies.

For less than 48 hours:

  • Try to put the same patch on again or put on a new patch immediately if:
    • it is no longer sticky;
    • it has become stuck to itself or on another surface or material; or
    • it is the second time it has become loose or has fallen off.
  • Change your patch on your normal change day.
  • You’re protected against pregnancy if you’ve used your patch correctly for the past 7 days (and the 7 days before your patch-free week, if you’re in week 1).

For 48 hours or more, or if you are unsure of the duration:

  • Put on a new patch immediately.
  • If you’re in week 1 or 2 of your patch cycle, change your patch on your normal change day.
  • If you’re in week 3, you need to start a new patch cycle (this is now day 1 of your new cycle) and skip your usual patch-free week.
  • Consider taking emergency contraception if you had unprotected sex in the last 7 days.
  • Use extra contraception (i.e. condoms) or abstain from sex until you’ve had a patch on for 7 days in a row.

What To Do If I Forget To Change My Patch?

If you forget to change your patch for one to two days (up to 48 hours): 

  • Put on a new patch as soon as you remember.
  • Change your patch on your normal change day.
  • A barrier method of contraception is not needed.

If you forget to change your patch for more than two days (48 hours or more): 

  • Start a new four-week cycle as soon as possible.
  • Consider taking emergency contraception if you had unprotected sex in the last 7 days.
  • Use extra contraception (i.e. condoms) or abstain from sex until you’ve had a patch on for 7 days in a row.

If you forget to take off your patch (at Week 4): 

  • Take it off as soon as you remember.
  • Start your next cycle on your normal “Patch Change Day”, the day after Day 28.
  • A barrier method of contraception is not needed.

If you forget to take off your patch (after Week 4):

  • Take it off as soon as you remember.
  • Put on the first patch of your new cycle as soon as you remember.
  • Use extra contraception (i.e. condoms) or abstain from sex until you’ve had a patch on for 7 days in a row.
  • You now have a new “Patch Change Day” and new Day 1.

What Are The Potential Side Effects Of EVRA® Transdermal Patch?

Women who just started using EVRA® Transdermal Patch may experience some of the following side effects:

  • Nausea and bloating. Taking the medication after food may help reduce these side effects. 
  • Headache. Taking over-the-counter painkillers such as Paracetamol may help manage the pain.
  • Vaginal bleeding between periods (spotting).
  • Breast soreness.
  • Mood changes.

These symptoms vary among individuals and normally subside within 2-3 months as your body starts to get accustomed to the changes in hormone levels. Do inform your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms for longer than expected or if they are bothering you.

How To Buy EVRA® Transdermal Patch In Singapore?

Birth control patches are prescription-only medicines in Singapore. You would need to consult a doctor in person before you can get started on any birth control.

With Siena, you can have access to affordable birth control without leaving home. Simply complete an online questionnaire, and speak with a doctor online. If prescribed, your medication will be delivered to you in discreet packaging and at no additional charge.

References