Products
Finished medicines containing fenfluramine are no longer available in many countries. Ponflural is out of commerce. Fenfluramine has also been combined with phentermine (“fen-phen”).
Structure and properties
Fenfluramine (C12H16F3N, Mr = 231.3 g/mol) is a fluorinated amphetamine derivative and a racemate. The pure enantiomer dexfenfluramine has also been used medicinally.
Effects
Fenfluramine (ATC A08AA02) has serotonergic, appetite suppressant, and antiadipose properties. The effects are due to increased release of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the central nervous system.
Indications
- For the treatment of overweight and obesity (obsolete).
- Dravet syndrome (orphan drug, EU, approval in the US).
Adverse effects
Fenfluramine can cause pulmonary arterial hypertension and valvular heart disease and was therefore withdrawn from the market in 1997.
