Clobenzorex

Clobenzorex STRUCTURE

Clobenzorex is a stimulant drug primarily used as an appetite suppressant. It belongs to both the phenethylamine and amphetamine chemical classes. Commercially available in multiple trade names like Asenlix, Dinintel, Finedal, and Rexigen, the drug has been legally distributed in Mexico under the trade name Asenlix by Aventis.

Chemistry

Clobenzorex is chemically described as an N-substituted amphetamine analog. After ingestion, the body rapidly converts clobenzorex to d-amphetamine. In its commercial form, the drug is supplied as the hydrochloride salt in green-tinted capsules, with a standard dose of 30 mg.

History

Introduced as a prescription anorectic in the 1970s, clobenzorex quickly gained popularity. However, by the latter part of the decade, several adverse reactions to the drug were reported. This led to its prohibition in the United States and a few other countries.

Clobenzorex synthesis

Usage

While clobenzorex's primary application is an appetite suppressant, it has found other unofficial uses over the years.

Athletes and "Greenies"

In the United States, clobenzorex, along with other stimulants like amphetamine, became popular among athletes. These athletes ingested the drug to ward off fatigue, enhance concentration, and improve reaction times during sports events. The green-tinted Asenlix capsules, and its generic version marked "IFA" (half light green, half dark green capsules), earned the nickname "greenies" among US baseball players. Over time, this slang term broadened in its scope, and "greenies" came to refer to any stimulant from the amphetamine class.

Legal Status

While clobenzorex remains legally distributed in Mexico, it's important to note that it's prohibited in the United States and some other countries due to the adverse reactions associated with its consumption.

See Also

• Amphetamine
• Phenethylamine
• Appetite suppressants
• Stimulant
• Amfecloral