Abstract

Obesity, its management, and anorectic drugs, have been discussed previously.¹ In general our conclusion was and still is that anorectic drugs are better avoided where possible. The success of any weight-reducing regimen depends on reduction of calorie intake: anorectics can help the patient to accept the diet. At present two groups of anorectics are available: non-fluorinated amphetamines such as phentermine (Duromine) and diethylpropion (Apisate; Tenuate)² which can produce euphoria and are occasionally abused,* and fluorinated amphetamines such as fenfluramine (Ponderax)³ which can induce unacceptable drowsiness during use, and depression during use or after withdrawal.