Somatometric and hormonal effects of dexfenfluramine

The effect of dexfenfluramine, the new serotoninergic appetite suppressor, was tested in 20 women. The drug was administered 3 months, 15 mg twice a day. A selected reduction of carbohydrate and of fat intake was observed. The body weight decreased mainly due to fat loss in the abdominal region. An important decrease of blood lipids was recorded, while insulinemia and OGTT remained unchanged. Serum alkaline phosphatase increased and ALT decreased. Other liver tests did not change. During the treatment the level of cortisol, TSH, T3 and 17-ketosteroids were not affected. T4 decreased and GH increased. These metabolic and hormonal effects were discussed. The treatment with dexfenfluramine was well tolerated and was found to have several favourable effects.