Fenfluramine
Fenfluramine
Fenfluramine (pronounced: fen-floo-ra-meen) is a serotonin-releasing agent that was previously used as an anorectic agent to reduce appetite and aid weight loss. It was marketed under the brand names Pondimin among others, but was withdrawn from the market in 1997 due to its association with potentially fatal pulmonary hypertension and heart valve disease.
Etymology
The term "Fenfluramine" is derived from the chemical name for the drug, which is alpha-methyl-N-ethylamine-alpha-(trifluoromethyl)benzeneethanamine. The prefix "fen-" is derived from the word "phenyl", referring to the phenyl ring structure in the chemical name. The "-flur-" part of the name refers to the three fluorine atoms in the chemical structure, and "-amine" refers to the presence of an amine group.
Usage
Fenfluramine was used as a short-term supplement to diet and exercise in the management of obesity. It was usually prescribed for individuals who are at increased medical risk due to their weight. Fenfluramine works by increasing the amount of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, in the brain, which helps to decrease appetite.
Side Effects
The use of Fenfluramine has been associated with serious side effects, including pulmonary hypertension, a rare, but often fatal disorder, and heart valve problems. The risk of both of these side effects increases with longer use of the medication and use in combination with other anorectic drugs.
Related Terms
- Anorectic: A drug which reduces appetite, leading to weight loss.
- Serotonin: A neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, and sleep.
- Pulmonary Hypertension: A type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart.
- Heart Valve Disease: A condition in which one or more of the valves in the heart doesn't work properly.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Fenfluramine
- Wikipedia's article - Fenfluramine
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