Fenfluramina
Fenfluramina Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Fenfluramina is a brand name. Its generic name is Fenfluramine.
Fenfluramina
Fenfluramina is an anorectic, anti-obesity, and serotonin-affecting drug. It is commonly prescribed as an appetite suppressant and for the long-term management of obesity. It works by affecting serotonin levels in the central nervous system, which causes a decrease in food cravings. There is also some evidence that it may increase metabolic rate. Fenfluramina has been linked to serious side effects, including heart issues, and it has been removed from the market in many countries.
Uses
Fenfluramina is used off-label for the short-term management of obesity. It is usually prescribed to individuals with a BMI of at least 30. It is also sometimes used as a short-term adjunct in the treatment of binge eating disorder.
Mechanism of Action
Fenfluramina acts on serotonin receptors in the brain, resulting in the release of more serotonin. This can result in reduced appetite and increased metabolic rate, both of which can contribute to weight loss. It may also reduce the activity of fat cells, which could explain some of its potential benefits.
How Long Does It Take to Work?
Fenfluramina usually needs to be taken in regular, daily doses for it to be effective. In most cases, it takes several weeks to start working, although some people experience effects as soon as the first dose.
Absorption
Fenfluramina is rapidly and completely absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. It is then distributed throughout the body, with the highest concentrations found in the liver and kidneys.
Route of Elimination
Fenfluramina is metabolized by the liver and is mostly excreted in the urine. A small amount also appears in feces.
Dosage
Fenfluramina is usually administered orally three times a day, usually with meals. The usual dose is 15 to 30 mg per day, divided into 3 equal doses. It is important to note that the dose should be lowered in people who are elderly, have liver or kidney problems, or those taking other medications that can affect the metabolism of fenfluramine.
Administration
Fenfluramina is usually taken orally, either in tablets or capsules. It is also available for intravenous use, but this is not recommended for long-term use.
Side Effects
Common side effects of fenfluramine include dry mouth, dizziness, and constipation. Other, less common side effects include headaches, blurred vision, anxiety, confusion, and changes in the heart rate or blood pressure. Fenfluramina has been linked to serious side effects such as heart valve disease, pulmonary hypertension, and strokes, so it is important to talk to a doctor before starting any treatment.
Toxicity
Fenfluramina is generally considered to be safe when used as directed, but long-term use may increase the risk of serious side effects. If the drug is taken in larger doses than recommended, or for longer periods of time than recommended, serious toxicity can occur. Symptoms of toxicity include nausea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, and seizures.
Precaution
Fenfluramina should not be used by those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, those taking MAO inhibitors, those with severe liver or kidney disease, those with a history of heart valve disease, or those taking any other medications that can affect the metabolism of fenfluramine. It should also be used with caution by those with a history of depression, anxiety, or other emotional disorders.
Interactions
Fenfluramina can interact with other medications which can increase its effects, and can therefore increase the risk of serious side effects. It should not be taken with MAO inhibitors, as this can potentially cause a dangerous reaction. It can also interact with other medications that affect serotonin levels, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Disease Interactions
Fenfluramina should not be used by those with a history of heart valve disease, pulmonary hypertension, or other heart-related problems. It should also be used with caution in people with a history of depression, anxiety, or other emotional disorders.
Drug Interactions
Fenfluramina can interact with several different types of drugs, both prescribed and over-the-counter. These can include medications for diabetes, blood pressure, depression, anxiety, and other related conditions, as well as drugs that affect serotonin levels, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is important to be aware of any potential drug-drug interactions before taking fenfluramine, and to consult with a healthcare professional if any questions arise.
Food Interactions
It is generally advised to take fenfluramine with food, as it has been found to be more effective when taken in the presence of food. Fenfluramina should not be taken with alcohol, as this may increase the risk of side effects.
Pregnancy Use
Fenfluramina should not be used by pregnant women, as it can have harmful effects on the developing fetus. It is also not recommended for nursing mothers.
Lactation Use
It is recommended that fenfluramine should not be used by women who are breastfeeding.
Acute Overdose
An acute overdose of fenfluramine can lead to serious complications, including seizures, cardiac arrhythmia, and coma. If an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention.
Contraindication
Fenfluramina is contraindicated in those with a known hypersensitivity to the drug, as well as those with certain medical conditions such as severe liver or kidney disease, or those taking MAO inhibitors.
Dosage Direction
Fenfluramina is usually taken orally, three times a day with meals. To reduce the risk of side effects, it is recommended to take the lowest dose possible for the shortest duration necessary. The usual dose is 15 to 30 mg per day, divided into 3 equal doses.
Storage Condition
Fenfluramina should be stored at room temperature, away from excessive heat, moisture, and light. It should be kept out of the reach of children and pets.
Volume of Distribution
Fenfluramina has a high volume of distribution, meaning that it is quickly and widely distributed throughout the body. It is bound extensively to plasma proteins, particularly albumin.
Half Life
Fenfluramina has a half-life of 18 to 24 hours, meaning that it is slowly eliminated from the body over a longer period of time.
Clearance
Fenfluramina is cleared by the liver, with a clearance rate of approximately 1.4 mL/min. It is also cleared via the kidneys, with a clearance rate of approximately 0.2 mL/min.
Here you find in details version of Fenfluramina