Pharm Anorexiants

What is considered an anorexiant?

Any substance that suppresses appetite

Anorexiants examples

uCaffeine- use with caution with PUD

uPhentermine (Adipex)- for short term use to jump start weight loss program.

uBenzphetamine (Regimex)*

uMethamphetamine (Desoxyn)*

uDiethylpropion (Tenuate)

Mechanism of action for anorexiants

Suppress appetite control centers in the brain. Tells the brain “I'm not hungry”

Increase the body’s basal metabolic rate

What should be encouraged for patients to eat that get a dry mouth from anorexiants?

No sugar, gum, or mints

What is Orlistat (Xenical)?

urelated nonstimulant drug used to treat obesity

uMechanism of action: works locally in the small and large intestines, where it inhibits absorption of caloric intake from fatty foods.

uInhibits enzyme lipase

What will happen to a patient on orlistat (Xenical) that eats a high fat diet?

Will have loose, oily stools which can sometimes be uncontrolled

Indications of anorexiants

Used to treat obesity along with behavior modifications (diet, exercise)

Contraindications of anorexiants

uDrug allergy

uSevere cardiovascular disease

uUncontrolled HTN

uHyperthyroidism

uEating disorders

MAOI usage

Adverse effects of anorexiants

uPossible elevated blood pressure and heart rate/ palpitations- must monitor vital signs

uAnxiety

uAgitation

uDizziness

uHeadache

uDry mouth- have the patient use mouth rinses, sugarless gum or hard candy

uOrlistat: fecal incontinence with oily stools