Chapter 34 - Weight Management

Question 1

Adrenergic anorexiants

• Phentermine (Adipex-P, lonamin, Pro-Fast)

Answer 1

o Adrenergic anorexiants
 Phentermine (Adipex-P, lonamin, Pro-Fast)
 MOA: Inhibits the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine. It is an anorexiant, causing appetite suppression, which is thought to result from direct stimulation of the satiety center in the hypothalamic and limbic region
 Use: Weight loss in overweight persons
 AE: Nervousness, hyperactivity, dry mouth, constipation, and hypertension. Impotence, insomnia, and unpleasant taste may occur.
 May be habit forming  temporary drug, not long term

Question 2

Lipase inhibitors

• Orlistat (Xenical, Alli)

Answer 2

 Orlistat (Xenical, Alli)
 MOA: Decreases fat absorption which leads to decreased caloric intake, resulting in weight loss and improved serum cholesterol values. The improvement in cholesterol levels is thought to be independent of weight loss effects. It binds to gastric and pancreatic lipases in the GI tract, and it can prevent the absorption of 30% of ingested fat
 Use: Weight loss
 AE: GI symptoms: abdominal pain, oily spotting, fecal urgency and incontinence, flatulence with discharge, fatty stools, and increased defecation. These effects occur in almost all patients but usually subside after a few weeks of continued drug usage with moderation of fat intake