Fenfluramine Hydrochloride is a medication used for weight loss. The spelling can be broken down phonetically as follows: /fɛnˈflʊərəmiːn/ hy-droh-klawr-ahyd. The first part of the word, "fenfluramine", is pronounced with the short e sound, and the second syllable is pronounced with the long u sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a long e sound, and the stress is on the second syllable. The word "hydrochloride" is pronounced with a long i sound in the first syllable, and the stress is on the second syllable.
Fenfluramine hydrochloride is a pharmacological compound classified as a selective serotonin releasing agent (SSRA). It is commonly used as an anorectic medication to aid in weight loss therapy. The chemical compound is a derivative of amphetamine and acts by increasing the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain that regulates mood, appetite, and sleep. Fenfluramine hydrochloride is typically prescribed in combination with phentermine (a sympathomimetic amine) as a combination therapy known as fen-phen.
The medication is administered orally in the form of tablets or capsules and is usually taken once or twice daily before meals. Fenfluramine hydrochloride is available only with a doctor's prescription and is intended for short-term use due to its potential for adverse side effects. Common side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, constipation, or changes in libido.
In the late 1990s, fenfluramine hydrochloride faced significant safety concerns due to its association with heart valve problems and potential risks of pulmonary hypertension. As a result, its use was largely discontinued and its sale banned in many countries. It is crucial to consult a medical professional before using fenfluramine hydrochloride or any weight loss medication to understand the risks and benefits associated with its use.
The term "Fenfluramine" is derived from the combination of two parts: "fen" and "fluramine".
The first part, "fen", is short for fenyl, which comes from the German word "Phenyl". It refers to a chemical structure called a phenyl ring, which is found in numerous compounds.
The second part, "fluramine", is derived from the chemical compound "flurazepam", which belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. The suffix "-am" is often added to the end of benzodiazepine names, representing the amino group in the structure.
As for "Hydrochloride", it is a compound formed by combining hydrochloric acid with another compound, in this case, fenfluramine. It helps in enhancing the solubility and stability of the drug.