Benzphetamine: A Quick Definition

Benzphetamine is a prescription appetite suppressant (brand names Didrex and Regimex) used for short-term weight loss in adults with a BMI of 30 or higher who have not responded to diet and exercise alone.

What Is Benzphetamine?

Benzphetamine Hydrochloride is a sympathomimetic amine — a type of medication that stimulates your central nervous system to reduce hunger. It belongs to the same general class as amphetamines but is considered to have a lower potential for abuse, which is why it's classified as a Schedule III controlled substance rather than Schedule II.

The FDA approved Benzphetamine specifically as a short-term adjunct to caloric restriction. In plain terms, it's meant to be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and exercise program — not as a standalone treatment.

To understand exactly how it suppresses appetite, see our article on how Benzphetamine works.

What Is Benzphetamine Used For?

Benzphetamine is FDA-approved for one primary use:

• Short-term weight loss in adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher (obese) who have not lost enough weight through diet and exercise alone.

"Short-term" typically means a few weeks. Some doctors may prescribe it off-label for longer periods under close supervision, but this is not the standard FDA-approved use.

Benzphetamine is not approved for:

• Cosmetic weight loss
• Patients who are slightly overweight but not obese
• Children or adolescents under 17

How Is Benzphetamine Taken?

Benzphetamine comes as a 50 mg oral tablet (scored, peach-colored, round). Here's what you need to know about taking it:

• Starting dose: 25 to 50 mg once daily
• Typical dose range: 25 to 50 mg, one to three times daily
• Maximum dose: 150 mg per day
• Timing: Take it in the mid-morning or mid-afternoon, based on your eating habits. Avoid late afternoon or evening doses to prevent insomnia.
• Duration: Prescribed for short-term use (a few weeks at a time)

Your doctor will start you at a lower dose and increase it based on how you respond. Always take Benzphetamine exactly as prescribed.

Who Should Not Take Benzphetamine?

Benzphetamine is not safe for everyone. It is contraindicated in people with:

• Advanced arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
• Symptomatic cardiovascular disease
• Moderate to severe hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
• Known allergy to sympathomimetic amines
• Glaucoma
• History of drug abuse
• Agitated states
• Pregnancy (can cause fetal harm)

It should also not be used within 14 days of taking an MAO inhibitor, as this combination can cause a dangerous spike in blood pressure (hypertensive crisis).

For a full list of medications to avoid, read our guide on Benzphetamine drug interactions.

How Much Does Benzphetamine Cost?

Cost is a big factor for many patients, especially since many insurance plans do not cover weight loss medications.

• Generic Benzphetamine with a discount card: Roughly $70 to $128 for 90 tablets (50 mg)
• Cash price without discounts: Up to $625 for 90 tablets
• Per-tablet pricing: As low as about $0.80 per tablet with discount programs (as low as $11.24 for 14 tablets has been reported)

Insurance coverage varies widely. Many plans don't cover weight loss medications at all, or they require prior authorization. Medicare Part D generally does not cover weight loss drugs. Some plans may require you to try Phentermine first (step therapy) before covering Benzphetamine.

There is no manufacturer savings program currently available for Benzphetamine. However, discount cards from GoodRx, SingleCare, and similar services can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost. For more ways to save, check out our Benzphetamine savings guide.

Benzphetamine vs. Similar Medications

How does Benzphetamine compare to other prescription weight loss options?

• Phentermine (Adipex-P, Lomaira) — Schedule IV, more widely prescribed and easier to find. Available in 15 mg and 37.5 mg tablets.
• Diethylpropion (Tenuate) — Schedule IV, another short-term appetite suppressant.
• Phendimetrazine (Bontril) — Schedule III, like Benzphetamine. Available in immediate and extended-release forms.
• Orlistat (Xenical, Alli) — Not a controlled substance. Works by blocking fat absorption rather than suppressing appetite. Alli is available over the counter.

If you're having trouble finding Benzphetamine, explore our article on alternatives to Benzphetamine.

Final Thoughts

Benzphetamine is an effective, FDA-approved tool for short-term weight loss when used as part of a comprehensive plan that includes diet and exercise. It's less commonly prescribed than Phentermine, which can make it harder to find — but for the right patient, it's a solid option.

Talk to your doctor about whether Benzphetamine is right for you. And if you already have a prescription, MedFinder can help you find a pharmacy that has it in stock.