Twenty-five years ago, the great Athenian doctor Hippocrates believed that balance is health and that imbalance is the cause of all illness and pain. For more than three hundred years, this concept has been in disfavour. Now, clinical experiences with Phen/Fen suggest that Hippocrates was right. While both phentermine and fenfluramine have been available since the mid-seventies, patients were generally reluctant to use them because of the always present fear of addiction. During many instances when people did try either one of these new drugs, they could not tolerate the side effects. The pills in fact do work, because they trick the brain into thinking that the stomach is full. But they also seem to affect the brain in other, less desirable ways. The thought process behind creating a ‘superdrug’ such as Phen/Fen, was that by combining the two medications, one could take advantage of their different pharmacologic actions getting, in essence, better effectiveness while hopefully minimizing the “mild” side effects (Michael D. Myers. 1997). Despite the side effects that are still present, drug companies are making lots of money off of Phen/Fen. It is the second fastest growing drug in the country. In 1996, it earned about $191 million for its maker, Wyath-Ayerst (CNN. 1997).
Obesity, poor nutrition, and inactivity are estimated to contribute to about 300,000 deaths a year (National Institution of Health. 1996), thus there is an increased demand for such pills as Phen/Fen. In this paper, I will discuss the two drugs that make up Phen/Fen, Fenfulramine and Phentermine, and discuss the side effects for each of the pills. I will introduce Serotonin and Dopamine, two of the brain’s neurotransmitters and the effect of Phen/Fen on them. I will also discuss who should and who shouldn’t use this potentially dangerous diet. Finally, I will look at a case study from Michael D. Myers which makes some very important conclusions about the diet. Fenfluramine Fenfluramine was discovered at approximately the same time as it’s cousin, Phentermine. Fenfluramine has always been strongly associated with many side effects. The most prominent of it’s side effects is Primary Pulmonary Hypertension which is a life threatening complication (Michael D. Myers. 1997).
The Term Paper on Diet Pills Nutrition Fen Phen
... public to manage their weight. Fen-phen is the combination of fenfluramine and phentermine. The FDA approved fenfluramine and phentermine as a short ... reliable because of the source being from the FDA. Ephedrine Side Effects You Should Know (Ephedra) web > This article adds ... shouldn't be mixed with other stimulants, as well as Fen-Phen Diet Drugs Litigation web > This is another article I chose ...
An estimated 1 in 17,000 patients that are treated for longer than 3 months will develop this condition (New England Journal of Medicine. 1996).
The symptoms may be vague chest discomfort of development of an insidious feeling of shortness of breath (Abenhaim, L. 1996).
If a person develops pulmonary hypertension, stopping the medication may or may not stop the disease process; a lung or even a heart-lung transplant may be required. Fenfluramine may also cause significant damage to the brain’s serotonin levels. Low levels of serotonin are associated with sleep and mood disorders, especially depression. Fenfluramine is also associated with other, less serious side effects s!uch as dry mouth, drowsiness, diarrhea, dizziness, sedation and heart palpitations. None of the latter side effects are life threatening but are very annoying and many people tend to avoid Fenfluramine just to avoid the displeasing side effects. On a common bottle or prescription of Fenfluramine, the label may read; Tradename: PondiminManufacturer: RobinsTreatment Class: Psychopharmacologic and Neurologic (CNS)Indication: Obesity
Phentermine Phentermine (resin) is a cationic exchange resin complex. Phentermine is alpha, alpha- dimethyl phenethylamine (phenyl-tertiary-butylamine).
Phentermine (resin) is a sympathomimetic amine with pharmacologic activity similar to the prototype drug of this class used in obesity, amphetamine (d- and dl- amphetamine).
Actions include central nervous system stimulation and elevation of blood pressure. Tachyphylaxis and tolerance have been demonstrated with all drugs of this class in which these phenomena have been looked for. Drugs of this class used in obesity are commonly known as “anorectics” or “anorexigenics.” It has not been established, however, that the action of such drugs in treating obesity is primarily one of appetite suppression. Other central nervous system actions, or metabolic effects may be involved. Adult obese subjects instructed in dietary management and treated with “anorectic” drugs, lose more weight on the average than those treated with placebo and diet, as determined in relatively short-term clinical trials. The magnitude of increased weight loss of drug-treated patients over placebo- treated patients is only a fraction of a pound a week. The rate of weight loss is greatest in the first weeks of therapy for both drug and placebo subjects and tends to decrease in succeeding weeks. The possible origins of the increased weight loss due to the various drug effects are not established. The amount of weight loss associated with the use of an “anorectic” drug varies from trial to trial, and the increased weight loss appears to be related in part to variables other than the drugs prescribed, such as the physician-investigator, the population treated, and the diet prescribed.
The Term Paper on Drug List 2003 Adverse Effect
1) Generic Drug Name: Indomethacin / indomethacin sodium trihydrate Trade Drug Name: Indocid P. D. A (CAN), Indocine, Indocin-SR, Novo-Methacin (CAN), Apo-Indomethacin (CAN), Indocid (CAN), Indocin I. V. , Indotec (CAN), Novomethacin (CAN), Rhodacin (CAN).Drug Category/Classification: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) Drug Mechanism of Action: Anti-Inflammatory, analgesic, and ...
Studies do not permit conclusions as to the relative importance of the drug and non-drug factors on weight loss. The natural history of obesity is measured in years, whereas the studies cited are restricted to a few weeks’ or months’ duration; thus, the total impact of drug-induced weight loss over that of diet alone !must be considered clinically limited. The bioavailability of Phentermine (resin) has been studied in humans in which blood levels of phentermine were measured by a gas chromatography method. Blood levels obtained with the 15 mg and 30 mg resin complex formulations indicated slower absorption with a reduced but prolonged peak concentration and without a significant difference in prolongation of blood levels when compared with the same doses of phentermine hydrochloride. The clinical significance of these differences is not known. In clinical trials establishing the efficacy of Phentermine (resin), a single daily dose produced an effect comparable to that produced by other regimens of “anorectic” drug therapy. Phentermine (resin) is indicated in the management of exogenous obesity as a short-term (a few weeks) adjunct in a regimen of weight reduction based on caloric restriction.
The Essay on Effects of Drug Abuse
Drug abuse is a growing issue all over the world, and while the concentration on drug awareness has dramatically increased over the years, the number of families effected by drug use continues to rise at an alarming rate. Drugs are defined as “: a substance that is used as a medicine: an illegal and often harmful substance (such as heroin, cocaine, LSD, or marijuana) that people take for pleasure. ...
The limited usefulness of agents of this class should be measured against possible risk factors inherent in their use such as those described below. The following are some of the more serious side effects of Phentermine; Advanced arteriosclerosis, symptomatic cardiovascular disease, moderate to severe hypertension, hyperthyroidism, known hypersensitivity, or idiosyncrasy to the sympathomimetic amines, glaucoma. WARNINGS: If tolerance to the “anorectic” effect develops, the recommended dose should not be exceeded in an attempt to increase the effect; rather, the drug should be discontinued. Phentermine (resin) may impair the ability of the patient to engage in potentially hazardous activities such as operating machinery or driving a motor vehicle; the patient should therefore be cautioned accordingly. When using CNS active agents, consideration must always be given to the possibility of adverse interactions with alcohol. DRUG DEPENDENCE: Phentermine (resin) is related chemically and pharmacologically to amphetamine (d- and dl-amphetamine) and other stimulant drugs that have been extensively abused. The possibility of abuse of Phentermine (resin) should be kept in mind when evaluating the desirability of including a drug as part of a weight reduction program.
Abuse of amphetamine (d-and dl-amphetamine) and related drugs may be associated with intense psychological dependence and severe social dysfunction. There are reports of patients who have increased the dosage of some of these drugs to many times that recommended. Abrupt cessation following prolonged high dosage administration results in extreme fatigue and mental depression; changes are also noted on the sleep EEG. Manifestations of chronic intoxication with anorectic drugs include severe dermatoses,marked insomnia, irritability, hyperactivity, and personality changes. The most severe manifestation of chronic intoxications is psychosis, often clinically indistinguishable from schizophrenia. The fact whether phentermine is safe to use during pregnancy has not yet been established. Use of Phentermine (resin) by women who are or may become pregnant requires that the potential benefit be weighed against the possible hazard to mother and infant. Phentermine (resin) is not recommended for use in pediatric patients under 12 years of age. The following are some precautions that should be taken before using phentermine (resin).
The Term Paper on Illicit Drug ecstasy Mdma
Illicit Drug (Ecstasy MDMA) Ecstasy, scientifically known as 3, 4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA), represents a known street illicit drug and simultaneously entirely synthetic substances, which does not exist in nature. From the chemical perspective, MDMA is a derivative of a derivative of methamphetamine and its parent compound amphetamine. Practically, it differs from the mentioned ...
Caution is to be exercised in prescribing Phentermine (resin) (phentermine resin) for patients with even mild hypertension. Insulin requirements in diabetes mellitus may be altered in association with the use of Phentermine (resin) and the concomitant dietary regimen. Phentermine’s effect on the cardiovascular system: Palpitation, tachycardia, elevation of blood pressure. Phentermine’s effect on the central nervous system: Overstimulation, restlessness, dizziness, insomnia, euphoria, dysphoria, tremor, headache; rarely psychotic episodes at recommended doses with some drugs in this class. Manifestations of acute overdosage may include restlessness, tremor, hyperreflexia, rapid respiration, confusion, assaultiveness, hallucinations, panic states. Fatigue and depression usually follow the central stimulation. Cardiovascular effects include arrhythmias, hypertension, or hypotension and circulatory collapse. Gastrointestinal symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Overdosage of pharmacologically similar compounds has resulted in fatal poisoning, usually terminating in convulsions and coma. Management of acute Phentermine (resin) intoxication is largely symptomatic and includes lavage and sedation with a barbiturate.
Experience with hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis is inadequate to permit recommendation in this regard. Intravenous phentolamine (Regitine) has been suggested on pharmacologic grounds for possible acute, severe hypertension, if this complicates overdosage. DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION One capsule daily, before breakfast or 10-14 hours before retiring. For individuals exhibiting greater drug responsiveness, Phentermine (resin) ’15’ will usually suffice. Phentermine (resin) ’30’ is recommended for less responsive patients. Phentermine (resin) is not recommended for use in pediatric patients under 12 years of age. Phentermine (resin) capsules should be swallowed whole. On a common bottle or prescription of phentermine, the label may read as follows;Tradename: Fastin/IonaminManufacturer: SmithKline Beecham/FisonsTreatment Class: Endocrine and MetabolicIndication: Obesity
The Research paper on Special Education Case Study
Abstract The purpose of the field experience case study was to be enlightened by and involved with an individual with a severe and profound disability. Time spent in observance and interaction with the individuals case would familiarize the students with IEPs (Individual Educational Programs) or ISPs (Individual Service Plans). Also, involvement in the study should help in learning and dealing ...
The Effect of Phen/Fen on Serotonin and Dopamine
Pain is necessary for survival. The pain of hunger motivates us all to eat; the pain of thirst motivates us to drink; and the pain of lust motivates us to seek out sex. All of our voluntary thoughts and behaviours are done to avoid pain and to give us pleasure. Pain tells us not only to start an action but also to stop. We are hungry – therefore we eat. When we eat too much, the pain in our stomach tells us to stop. Both serotonin and dopamine are chemicals that work together in the brain. Dopamine is clearly a stimulant as it affects behaviour, raises the body’s temperature and increases the metabolic rate. Serotonin in its natural balance can serve as a calming factor. Serotonin is involved in mood regulations, impulse control, sleep, appetite and sexual functions.Chemically speaking, dopamine deficiency is painful. Low levels of dopamine directly cause and can create depression, fibromyalgia, hunger, thirst, lust and cravings for drugs or alcohol. Essentially, it is also the deficiency of dopamine that motivates us to action. Animal experiments have shown that the intake of food, water, drugs and alcohol and the sexual act increase both dopamine and serotonin.
Eating, drinking, copulating, and using drugs and alcohol relieve pain and give us pleasure.Conversely, serotonin when in excess, causes nausea and vomiting, both painful experiences. Disturbances in homeostasis or serotonin/dopamine cause hormonal imbalances, abnormal body chemistries and blood counts, and disturbances in appetite and mood. With relation to Phen/Fen, when there is an insufficiency of dopamine, the phentermine (Phen) dose can be increased; an excess of serotonin, the fenfluramine (Fen) dose is tapered.Ideally (according to Hippocrates), dopamine and serotonin levels should be high and balanced. Yet many factors can lead to the decrease of either and the resulting imbalance. These include genetic abnormalities, environmental stresses, and even the aging process itself. The resultant deficiencies and imbalances are the root cause of many illnesses. For example, low dopamine causes depression and fatigue; low serotonin leads towards anxiety and hostility. Excess dopamine causes agitation; excess serotonin causes confusion, nausea and vomiting.Dr. George Ricaurte of Johns-Hopkins University says that Phen/Fen damages baboon brain cells. He is not yet sure if it damages human brain cells as well. Next, he wants to study Phen/Fen’s effect on human brain cells. He says that he is worried because once you destroy these brain cells, they don’t grow back again.Essentially, the combination of fenfluramine and phentermine works to adjust the levels of the brain’s two neurotransmitters, serotonin and dopamine. Together, serotonin and dopamine regulate the body and the mind. The balance of these two neurotransmitters is critical to health.
The Essay on Weight Management Loss Body Energy
Weight management has been thought of as only weight loss by many. Weight management covers all aspects of attaining and maintaining optimum weight for a healthy lifestyle. Health professionals now realize that prevention of weight gain as well as weight loss and improving health status are important goals. These goals must be individualized for success. At the outset of treatment, the patient and ...
Who Should and Who Shouldn’t Use Phen/Fen
With an attempt to avoid abuse or improper use of a “Phen/Fen” diet, many experts and doctors believe that only obese patients who have failed at other weight loss methods should be administered these pills. Other doctors agree, and are adamantly opposed to people who are only mildly overweight using these drugs. Dr. Susan Yanovski of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases says, “It doesn’t make sense to use the drugs for the short-term, since you’ll just regain the weight once you go off them.” In order to avoid the regaining of the weight once you go off the pills, you must have taught yourself a new system of eating. You must learn to eat as a thin person eats – whenever you are hungry. Dr. Arthur Frank of George Washington University say that if “a woman is only ten pounds over her ideal weight, then the risks of the side effects from using these pills definitely outweigh any benefit.” Almost every doctor agrees that if a person just wa!nts to slightly enhance their physical beauty by losing a few pounds, Phen/Fen is not the correct way to go about it. It is nationally agreed upon that only those who are clinically obese should take advantage of our relatively new technology. CNN has developed a table to distinguish between those that are overweight and those who are clinically obese.
This table was created with no gender biases, and therefore is valid for both males and females;Height Weight to be Considered Clinically Obese5’0″ 155 lbs5’1″ 160 lbs5’2″ 165 lbs5’3″ 170 lbs5’4″ 175 lbs5’5″ 180 lbs 5’6″ 185 lbs 5’7″ 190 lbs5’8″ 195 lbs5’9″ 200 lbs5’10″ 205 lbs5’11″ 210 lbs 6’0″ 215 lbs6’1″ 220 lbs
Michael D. Myers’ Case Study Over the past decade, many studies have been performed to see exactly what a Phen/Fen diet is all about. Michael D. Myers M.D. of Los Alamitos, California conducted a study over a 210 week period. The information that he obtained and the conclusions that he made were extremely significant and vital to our present knowledge of the drugs. The following is a basic breakdown and summary of his study;Patient Participation: Patients were 18 to 60 years old weighing between 130% and 180% of their ideal body weights (according to the 1983 Metropolitan Life Insurance Tables).
The patients were in good health, not taking any long-term medications and did not have high blood pressure, diabetes or any other chronic diseases.Medication: Phentermine resin (15 mg) combined with Fenfluramine (60 mg)Behaviour Therapy: Active and ongoing behaviour therapy with professionals trained in behaviour modification techniques was an integral part of the study.Caloric Restriction: Calories were limited by day to between 1500 – 1800 kcal per day for men and between 1000 – 1200 kcal per day for women.Exercise: The participants in the study were started on graded exercise programs to expend at least an extra 300 kcal three times a week.Medical Monitoring: All participants were seen by physicians at regular intervals during the study with periodic laboratory and electrocardiographic monitoring.Results at 34 Weeks: Placebo patients – average weight loss of 4.6 kg Medication patients – average weight loss of 14.2 kg Results at 104 Weeks (83 of the 121 people who started the study):Continuous medication (39% of remaining participants) – average weight loss of 12.6 kgIntermittent medication (39% of remaining participants) – average weight loss of 11.5 kgAugmented medication group (22% of remaining participants) – average weight loss of 6.5 kgAVERAGE WEIGHT LOSS of the 83 participants making it to week 104: 10.8 kgAnd the study continued.
Between 190 and 210 weeks, all participants were tapered-off their medication. The behaviour modification, dietary instruction, physician monitoring, and exercise were continued. At the end of the study, the remaining 48 participants were, on average, 1.4 kg less than when they started the study. However, 7 of the remaining participants were 10% or more below their initial body weights.Conclusions:1) Medication (phentermine + fenfluramine) in a program combining behaviour modification, dietary instruction, exercise, and medical monitoring will assist with weight loss to a moderate degree with the greatest weight loss occurring within the first year with the weight gradually returning toward baseline despite continued intervention.2) The average weight loss with the medication protocol (program) peaked at 14 kg at week 34.3) Patients that were treated only with dietary instruction, behaviour modification, exercise intervention, and physician monitoring lost an average of 4.6 kg at week 34.4) All patients received on-going dietary instruction, behaviour modification, physician monitoring and exercise intervention. Although the total weight loss was small at week 210 (only about 3 pounds in the participants who continued), the natural history of obesity is to gain 1 to 2% of body weight per year and thus there was some measure of success from this program.5) There is no evidence that the body weight control mechanism was reset to a lower level from long-term use of medication.6) The effect of using medication without concomitant dietary, behavioural, exercise intervention, and physician monitoring are unknown.7) Other modalities of treatment need to be employed to assist in attaining long term weight loss.
Conclusion In conclusion, both fenfluramine, and phentermine are extremely interesting drugs not only to scientists and doctors, but to society as a whole. Although they still present a great deal of side effects alone, the combination of the two can produce amazing results in weight loss in a relatively short period of time.
