How should I take Tenuate?

Take Tenuate exactly as prescribed. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Diethylpropion may be habit-forming. Never share this medicine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.

The immediate-release Tenuate tablet is usually taken three times a day before meals.

The extended-release Tenuate Dospan tablet is usually taken once a day midmorning.

Tell your doctor if you do not lose at least 4 pounds after taking the medicine for 4 weeks along with a low calorie diet.

Do not crush, chew, or break an extended-release tablet. Swallow it whole.

If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using Tenuate. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.