d-Fenfluramine selectively suppresses carbohydrate snacking by obese subjects

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Clinical Nutrition
• Obesity Research

Background:

• Obesity is a complex health issue often associated with specific food cravings.
• Carbohydrate-rich foods are frequently craved by individuals struggling with obesity.
• Understanding appetite regulation is crucial for developing effective weight management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of d-fenfluramine on food choices in obese patients.
• To determine if d-fenfluramine influences the consumption of carbohydrate-rich versus protein-rich foods.
• To assess the impact of d-fenfluramine on overall calorie intake in a controlled setting.

Main Methods:

• A double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted over two eight-day periods.
• Twenty obese inpatients with reported cravings for carbohydrates participated.
• Food choices were monitored using a computerized vending machine offering isocaloric meals and snacks, categorized by carbohydrate and protein content.

Main Results:

• d-fenfluramine significantly reduced overall mealtime calorie intake by 16% and carbohydrate intake by 22%.
• Snack calorie intake decreased by 41% with d-fenfluramine, primarily driven by a reduction in carbohydrate-rich snacks.
• Consumption of carbohydrate-rich snacks decreased significantly, while protein-rich snack consumption remained unchanged.

Conclusions:

• d-fenfluramine effectively reduces calorie and carbohydrate intake, particularly from snacks, in obese individuals.
• The drug appears to selectively target carbohydrate cravings, suggesting a potential role in appetite suppression for weight management.
• Further research is warranted to explore the long-term efficacy and safety of d-fenfluramine in obesity treatment.