Questions and Answers
What is an anorexiant?
Name a drug classified as an anorexiant.
phentermine
What is Orlistat (Xenical)?
A related nonstimulant drug used to treat obesity.
Describe the mechanism of action for anorexiants.
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What does Orlistat (Xenical) inhibit?
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What are the indications for prescribing anorexiants?
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Anorexiants don't work well as a monotherapy; they work best with _______.
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What are some contraindications to anorexiants?
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What are the adverse effects of anorexiants?
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What can happen when phentermine is combined with CNS stimulants?
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What is a contraindication of Orlistat?
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Which anorexiant is available over the counter?
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What vitamins may have decreased absorption when taking Orlistat?
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Study Notes
Anorexiants Overview
- Anorexiants are substances that suppress appetite and stimulate the central nervous system (CNS) for weight loss in obesity.
Common Anorexiants
- Key anorexiant medications include:
- Phentermine (Ionamin)
- Benzphetamine (Didrex)
- Methamphetamine (Desoxyn)
Non-stimulant Option
- Orlistat (Xenical) is a notable non-stimulant medication used to treat obesity.
Mechanism of Action
- Anorexiants inhibit appetite control centers in the CNS, utilizing dopamine- and norepinephrine-mediated pathways.
- Orlistat works by inhibiting lipase, leading to up to 30% reduced absorption of dietary fat and increased elimination in feces.
Additional Anorexiant - Lorcaserin
- Lorcaserin (Belviq) acts as a serotonin 2C receptor agonist, though its exact action remains unclear.
Indications for Use
- Anorexiants are indicated for obesity in high-risk patients, specifically those with a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 with comorbidities such as hypertension, high cholesterol, or diabetes.
Complementary Techniques
- Anorexiants are more effective when combined with behavioral modifications including diet and exercise.
Contraindications
- Contraindications for anorexiants include:
- Known drug allergies
- Severe cardiovascular disease
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Hyperthyroidism and glaucoma
- Mental agitation and history of drug abuse
- Eating disorders
- Recent use of MAOIs within the past 14 days
Orlistat Contraindications
- Orlistat should not be used in cases of cholestasis or chronic malabsorption syndromes, such as Crohn's disease, colitis, or short bowel syndrome.
Adverse Effects
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Common adverse effects of anorexiants:
- Anxiety, agitation, dizziness, headache
- Hypertension and heart palpitations (except diethylpropion)
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Orlistat may cause:
- Headache, upper respiratory infections, gastrointestinal distress, fecal incontinence, and oily stools.
Drug Interaction Risks
- Combining phentermine with CNS stimulants can lead to additive toxicities, resulting in nervousness, insomnia, dysrhythmias, and seizures.
- Co-administration of phentermine with MAOIs may lead to increased catecholamine release, causing headaches, dysrhythmias, and severe hypertension.
- Mixing phentermine with serotonergic drugs can enhance toxicity, bringing about cardiovascular side effects, nervousness, insomnia, and convulsions.
Accessibility
- Orlistat (Xenical) is available over the counter, making it accessible for individuals seeking weight management solutions.
Nutrient Absorption Impact
- Orlistat can also decrease the absorption of essential fat-soluble vitamins, specifically vitamins A, D, and E.
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Description
Test your knowledge on anorexiants with these flashcards. This quiz covers definitions, types of anorexiants, and their mechanisms of action. Perfect for students and professionals looking to enhance their understanding of appetite suppressants.
