What is dexfenfluramine?

Losing weight is a tough task to do. We are usually on the losing end whenever we try to fight against our appetites and cravings that usually results to obesity. Being obese is a big problem since it poses a lot of health related risks and problems. Being overweight can lead to fatal cardiac problems that can otherwise be avoided.

Of course regular exercise and eating a healthy and balanced diet is still the best prevention for obesity. However, some people may find this difficult and totally impossible to do due to time constraints and busy schedules. Some people also find it hard since it needs a lot of self control and discipline.

There are weight control pills that are available in the market and have been proven effective to combat obesity. One of these drugs is dexfenfluramine. Sadly, the medication was pulled out from the market in the mid 1990ís due to some possible detrimental side effects.

What is dexfenfluramine? Dexfenfluramine was an anti obesity drug that proved to be popular and effective until its discontinuation in the market due to the efforts of the United States Food and Drug Administration. It was deemed dangerous due to its possible cardiovascular side effects. It is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor; this means that it increases the levels of serotonin in the body. Serotonin is a chemical known as a neurotransmitter that is responsible for a lot of the bodyís functions and maintains its balance. With increased serotonin in the body, the appetite especially carbohydrate cravings are greatly decreased. For people who are extremely overweightó 20 to 30% above the normaló this drug will show results in just about 4 weeks.

Unlike amphetamines and other drugs derived from it, dexfenfluramine is not addictive. Thus it can be used for extended periods of time. This drug is usually taken orally twice a day while being accompanied by meals. If you will ask what is dexfenfluramine's side effects, it varies from common to more severe complications. Its common side effects are diarrhea, headache, dry mouth, runny nose, anxiety and insomnia. Other side effects included hypertension, palpitations, angina pectoris (chest pains), migraines, arrhythmias and in some rare cases, pulmonary embolisms, heart blocks, and thrombosis. It also showed contra-indications with other prescription drugs.

Due to its side effectsóspecifically the ones that affect the cardiovascular system, it was then later pulled out from the market in the United States. Although it showed great promise as an anti-obesity drug, the safety of the users are still the primary concern of the government. Dexfenfluramine was popular in Europe for many years but was later pulled out globally due to health concerns. However, it was later superseded by a drug known as sibutramine which is a safer alternative.