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Diethylpropion

    DEA Class; Rx

    Common Brand Names; 

    • CNS Stimulants, Anorexiants; 
    • Stimulants; 
    • Sympathomimetic

    Oral sympathomimetic amine that is pharmacologically similar to amphetamines
    Used for the short-term treatment (i.e., a few weeks) of exogenous obesity; not generally recommended by guidelines due to lack of longer-term health benefits
    Not to be used for long-term weight management

    Indicated for the short-term (i.e., a few weeks) treatment of exogenous obesity.

    Advanced arteriosclerosis

    Hyperthyroidism

    Severe hypertension

    Pulmonary hypertension

    Hypersensitivity to sympathomimetic amines

    Glaucoma

    Agitated state

    History of drug abuse

    Pregnancy (especially first trimester)

    Within 14 days of MAOI

    Concurrent use with other anorectic agents

    • Increased blood pressure
    • Palpitations
    • Rash
    • Urticaria
    • Constipation
    • Nausea
    • Stomach cramps
    • Vomiting
    • Xerostomia
    • Central nervous system stimulation
    • Dizziness
    • Headache
    • Insomnia
    • Pain
    • Blurred vision
    • Mydriasis
    • Restlessness
    • Menstrual irregularity
    • Impotence, changes in libido

    Therapy may impair ability of patient to engage in potentially hazardous activities such as operating machinery or driving motor vehicle; the patient should be cautioned accordingly

    Prolonged use may induce dependence with withdrawal syndrome on cessation of therapy

    Hallucinations have occurred rarely following high doses of the drug

    Several cases of toxic psychosis reported following excessive use of drug; some have been reported in which recommended dose appears not to have been exceeded; new onset of mania may occur with stimulant use; ovserve for symptoms of aggression and/or hostility; psychosis has been abated after drug discontinued

    When central nervous system active agents used, consideration must always be given to possibility of adverse interactions with alcohol

    Reports suggest the drug may increase convulsions in some patients with seizure disorders; therapy should be carefully monitored; titration of dose or discontinuance of therapy may be necessary

    Stimulants may unmask tics in Tourette’s syndrome; use with caution

    Use caution in patients with diabetes mellitus; requirements of antidiabetic agents may be altered with anorexiants and concomitant dietary restrictions

    Pregnancy Category: B

    Lactation: Excreted in breast milk, use caution

    Adults

    75 mg/day PO.

    Geriatric

    75 mg/day PO.

    Adolescents

    16 to 17 years: 75 mg/day PO.
    Less than 16 years: Safety and efficacy have not been established.

    Children

    Safety and efficacy have not been established.

    Diethylpropion hydrochloride

    tablet: Schedule IV

    • 25mg

    tablet, controlled-release: Schedule IV

    • 75mg