FOCUS ON DEXFENFLURAMINE - A SEROTONIN REUPTAKE INHIBITOR FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF OBESITY

Dexfenfluramine, a dextrostereoisomer of fenfluramine, was recently ap proved, by the FDA for management of obesity, The drag is approximatel y twice as potent as fen fluramine and. is associated with a lower inc idence of adverse effects. At present, dexfenfluramine is approved for up to 1 year as an adjunct to dietary modification. Clinical trials h ave indicated that dexfenfluramine is safe and effective in producing and maintaining weight loss of approximately 10% of initial weight and 20% to 30% of initial overweight. The most common side effects includ e diarrhea, dry mouth, and somnolence. In summary, dexfenfluramine is a relatively safe and effective serotoninergic agent for weight contro l, The availability of this agent offers a safe and effective alternat ive anorectic agent for those patients who are refractory to diet modi fication and require year-long treatment.