Learn which doctors prescribe Phentermine, how to find a provider near you, and what to expect at your first appointment in this 2026 guide.
You've done the research. You know what Phentermine is and you think it could help you reach your weight-loss goals. Now you need a doctor who can actually prescribe it. Because Phentermine is a Schedule IV controlled substance, not every provider will write a prescription for it — and finding the right one matters.
This guide walks you through exactly which types of doctors prescribe Phentermine, how to find one near you, and what to expect at your first visit.
Several types of healthcare providers can prescribe Phentermine. You don't necessarily need a specialist, though one may be helpful depending on your situation.
Your regular doctor is often the best starting point. Most primary care physicians can prescribe Phentermine if you meet the clinical criteria — a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition like high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. Many patients get their Phentermine prescription right from their family doctor without needing a referral.
These doctors focus specifically on weight management. They're board-certified in obesity medicine and tend to have the most experience prescribing Phentermine and other weight-loss medications. If your primary care doctor is hesitant to prescribe or you want a more comprehensive weight-loss plan, a bariatric specialist is a great option.
Endocrinologists treat hormone-related conditions, including metabolic disorders that affect weight. If your weight gain is connected to thyroid issues, insulin resistance, or another endocrine condition, an endocrinologist can prescribe Phentermine as part of a broader treatment plan.
Dedicated weight-loss clinics — sometimes called medical weight-loss clinics — often prescribe Phentermine as part of structured programs that include dietary counseling, exercise plans, and regular check-ins. These clinics are set up specifically for this purpose, so the process is usually straightforward.
Once you know what type of doctor to look for, here's how to actually find one.
If you have health insurance, start with your plan's online directory. Search for family medicine, internal medicine, or obesity medicine providers in your network. This ensures your visits will be covered (or partially covered) by your plan. Call the office before booking to confirm they prescribe weight-loss medications.
Platforms like Zocdoc, Healthgrades, and Vitals let you search for doctors by specialty, location, and insurance. You can often filter by "weight loss" or "obesity medicine" and read patient reviews. Look for providers who mention prescribing medication-assisted weight loss.
If your primary care doctor doesn't prescribe Phentermine, ask for a referral to someone who does. Many doctors are happy to refer you to a colleague or a weight management clinic. A referral can also help with insurance coverage if your plan requires one for specialist visits.
Telehealth has made it much easier to get a Phentermine prescription. Several online platforms connect you with licensed providers who can prescribe weight-loss medications after a virtual consultation. This is especially useful if you live in a rural area or can't easily get to a specialist. Just make sure the telehealth service is licensed in your state and uses board-certified providers.
Important note: Because Phentermine is a controlled substance, some telehealth platforms may require an initial in-person visit or follow specific state regulations. Check the platform's requirements before signing up.
The ABOM website has a provider directory where you can search for board-certified obesity medicine specialists by zip code. These doctors have additional training and certification in treating obesity, so they're well-equipped to manage Phentermine therapy.
Knowing what to expect can help you feel prepared and make the most of your visit.
Your doctor will ask about your weight history, previous diet and exercise attempts, current medications, and any health conditions you have. Be honest about everything — this helps your doctor determine if Phentermine is safe for you. Phentermine is not appropriate for people with a history of heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, or a history of drug abuse.
Expect a physical exam that includes your weight, height, BMI, blood pressure, and heart rate. Your doctor may also order blood work to check your thyroid function, blood sugar, cholesterol, and other metabolic markers. These baseline numbers help your doctor monitor your progress and watch for potential side effects.
Your provider will talk with you about realistic weight-loss expectations. Phentermine is FDA-approved for short-term use (up to 12 weeks) as part of a plan that also includes diet changes, exercise, and behavioral modification. It's not a magic pill — it's a tool that works best when combined with lifestyle changes.
If your doctor determines Phentermine is right for you, they'll write a prescription. The most common dose is 37.5 mg once daily, taken in the morning before or shortly after breakfast. Some doctors start with a lower dose like 15 mg or 8 mg to see how you respond. Your doctor will likely schedule a follow-up visit within 4 to 6 weeks to check your progress.
Once you have your Rx in hand, you'll need to fill it at a pharmacy. Here are a few tips:
Finding a doctor who prescribes Phentermine doesn't have to be complicated. Start with your primary care provider, search online directories, or explore telehealth options. The most important thing is working with a licensed provider who takes the time to evaluate whether Phentermine is safe and appropriate for you.
If you're ready to take the next step, Medfinder can help you find Phentermine in stock at a pharmacy near you once you have your prescription.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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