Benzphetamine This is an anti- obesity drug sold under the trade name Didrex. It is used as a short-term supportive treatment to combat exogenous obesity. It is a substance closely related to amphetamine.
Use
Decreases appetite. It is combined with a low calorie diet and exercise to help you lose weight. This medicine is designed to be used only for a few weeks and should not be used with other weight loss medicines.
It is a moderate stimulant drug of the central nervous system, with anorectic properties . Benzphetamine is usually indicated as a pharmacological adjunct (associated with a hypocaloric diet) for the short-term treatment (8 to 12 weeks) of exogenous obesity.
Isolated uses of this drug have been reported in the therapy of ADHD.
It is a phenethylamine closely related to amphetamine. In several Hispanic countries it is used as a generic monodrug, included in magisterial formulas prescribed for weight reduction. It is a controlled substance according to the International Convention on Psychotropics of 1971 .
Function
It is a sympathomimetic amine that has an anorexic (appetite suppressant) action. Its main function is to reduce hunger, which leads to lower calorie consumption. Although the mechanism of action of appetite suppressants is not fully understood, these drugs have pharmacological effects similar to those of amphetamines. Amphetamine and related substances (such as benzphetamine) are thought to stimulate the release of norepinephrine and / or dopamine from their storage sites in the nerve endings of the lateral hypothalamus (which is the appetite center), causing a decrease in hunger .
Contraindications
It is contraindicated in patients with advanced arteriosclerosis, symptomatic cardiovascular disease, moderate or severe hypertension, hyperthyroidism, known hypersensitivity to sympathomimetic amines, and glaucoma. It should not be administered to people who are in a state of restlessness or who have a history of drug abuse.
Missing a dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, take only that dose. Do not take extra or double doses.
Side effects
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or healthcare professional as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips or tongue
- Severe anxiety or nervousness
- Respiratory problems
- Changes in mood or behavior
- Chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat
- Dizziness or fainting
- Fever or hot, dry skin
- Hallucinations or paranoia
- Elevation of blood presure
- Nervousness or restlessness
- Seizures
- Swelling of the legs or ankles
- Tremors
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
Side effects that generally do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or healthcare professional if they persist or are bothersome):
- Headache
- Increase or decrease in sexual desire or ability
- Mild stomach upset
- Difficulty getting to sleep
Use of the medicine
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the medicine label. Do not take this medicine within 6 hours before your usual bedtime as it may cause insomnia. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Don’t stop your medicine abruptly. You should gradually reduce the dose to avoid withdrawal effects. Consult your doctor or healthcare professional.
Talk to your pediatrician to learn about the use of this medicine in children. May require special attention. Although this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
Periodic evolution
Visit your doctor or health care professional to check your progress regularly.
Must know
This medicine can affect your concentration or hide signs of tiredness.
Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that requires alertness until you know how this medicine affects you.
Do not sit up or stand up quickly, especially if you are an elderly patient. This reduces the risk of dizziness or fainting. Alcohol can increase dizziness and drowsiness . Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages.
It was designed to be used in combination with a healthy diet and exercise for the best results.
It is for short term use only. Tell your doctor or health care professional if this medicine stops working or if you feel the need to take more than prescribed.
Do not change the dose without first consulting your doctor or healthcare professional.
Risk in pregnancy and lactation
There is a high risk of birth defects. The drug passes into breast milk.
Controlled substance
It is unique in its classification as a Schedule III drug in the United States , as most substances that are in the amphetamine family are classified in Schedule II which is much more controlled. This is because benzphetamine is metabolized to amphetamine and methamphetamine within the body. By itself, it is not a substance with such a high abuse potential since any form of administration (ingested, insufflated, injected, etc.) produces a sustained release that allows the liver to metabolize it. That is, it would not produce the desired amphetamine effect . A person using benzphetamine recreationally could overdose before achieving the desired effect.