Fenphen is a combination of two medications used as an appetite suppressant for weight loss. The word is spelled /ˈfɛnfɛn/ in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The phonetic transcription shows that the word has two syllables, with stress on the first syllable. The first syllable is pronounced like "fen" as in "fence", while the second syllable has the same sound as "fen" but with a reduced vowel, like "en" in "happen". The spelling of Fenphen reflects its two active ingredients: fenfluramine and phentermine.
Fenphen, often stylized as "Fen-Phen", refers to a combination medication that was once widely prescribed for weight loss. It consists of two drugs: fenfluramine and phentermine. Fenfluramine is an appetite suppressant that alters the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, while phentermine is a stimulant that acts by suppressing appetite and increasing metabolism.
The combination of these two drugs was believed to promote more efficient weight loss than when used individually. Fenphen gained popularity in the 1990s and was commonly prescribed for the treatment of obesity. However, it was later withdrawn from the market due to concerns regarding serious side effects and potential health risks.
The use of Fenphen was associated with a condition called fenfluramine-phentermine-associated valvular heart disease (FPAVHD), which caused damage to the heart valves. Studies found that the combination of fenfluramine and phentermine led to an increased risk of developing this heart condition, leading to its withdrawal from the market in 1997.
Today, the term "Fenphen" is largely used to refer to the specific combination of fenfluramine and phentermine that was available in the 1990s. It serves as a cautionary reminder of the potential risks and complications associated with weight loss medications, emphasizing the importance of thorough research, medical supervision, and consideration of alternative approaches when pursuing weight loss goals.