Adipex is a brand version of the generic medication known as Phentermine. They are the same medication, but Adipex comes in only one dosage and form, while Phentermine comes in several different forms.

Adipex (blue/white 37.5-mg capsule or white 37.5-mg tablet) is the most common brand form of Phentermine. It's made by Gate Pharmaceuticals and comes in either an oblong, white, scored tablet or a blue and white capsule containing 37.5 mg that has the Adipex name printed on it. It can be bought it in 1-month (30 pills) and 3-month (90 pills) amounts.

Purepac Labs also makes 37.5-mg white, oblong tablets that look much like Adipex but are sold as a generic form called Phentermine HCl.

Adipex is sometimes used in a combination "cocktail" with antidepressants such as Prozac, Zoloft, Celexa, Luvox, Trazadone or Effexor. Taken this way, Adipex often works better and the effects last longer.

How to Find the Right Dose?

Prescription medication should be taken exactly as directed by a doctor. A doctor can determine what dose is right based on BMI and current weight, medical history, weight loss goals and other factors.

Most doctors will start with a low dose; for example, half an Adipex tablet. If weight loss does not occur on the lower dose, a higher dose can then be tried.

One of the reasons Adipex is popular is because it comes in a timed-release tablet that often has fewer side effects. Remember to talk with a doctor if not getting the expected results from Adipex.