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[Phentermine--a "weighty" or a dangerous substance?]
1Institut für Rechtsmedizin und Verkehrsmedizin der Universität Heidelberg.
Archiv Fur Kriminologie
|May 18, 2013
Summary
Phentermine, an appetite suppressant, is frequently seized despite withdrawn approval. While effective, it carries addiction potential and risks like hypertension and mental illness, outweighing its benefits.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Forensic Toxicology
Background:
- Phentermine, an appetite suppressant and methamphetamine isomer, acts on norepinephrine and dopamine transporters.
- Its pharmacological action is similar to amphetamine but less potent.
- Withdrawal of phentermine approval in Germany contrasts with its frequent seizure internationally.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pharmacology, metabolism, and analytical methods for phentermine.
- To discuss the associated health risks and legal implications of phentermine use.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of pharmacological studies, clinical trials, and case reports.
- Analysis of detection methods including gas chromatography and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry.
Main Results:
- Phentermine is a potent norepinephrine transporter substrate with weaker dopamine transporter activity.
- Primary metabolites include p- and N-hydroxyphentermine.
- While short-term studies show few side effects, case reports link phentermine to hypertension, vasculopathy, and mental illness.
Conclusions:
- Phentermine use is associated with significant health risks, including cardiovascular and mental health issues.
- Legal consequences and unpredictable health risks accompany the use of withdrawn medications like phentermine.
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