Abstract

Fenfluramine (Ponderax - Selpharm) is a new appetite depressant, developed in France and introduced in Britain late in 1963. It is chemically related to amphetamine: its main distinguishing feature is a trifluoromethyl group attached to the benzene ring. The makers state that the drug does not stimulate the central nervous system, that it is not habit forming, and that it can be used by diabetics and hypertensive patients. They also state that it not only reduces the appetite, but also makes possible ‘prolonged treatment resulting in a true re-education of the appetite - which will persist after . . . ending . . . treatment’.