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Pronunciation |
|
(benz
FET a
meen) |
|
|
U.S. Brand
Names |
|
Didrex® |
|
|
Generic
Available |
|
No |
|
|
Synonyms |
|
Benzphetamine Hydrochloride |
|
|
Pharmacological Index |
|
Anorexiant |
|
|
Use |
|
Short-term adjunct in exogenous obesity |
|
|
Restrictions |
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C-III |
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Pregnancy Risk
Factor |
|
X |
|
|
Contraindications |
|
Known hypersensitivity or idiosyncrasy to sympathomimetic amines. Patients
with advanced arteriosclerosis, symptomatic cardiovascular disease, moderate to
severe hypertension (stage II or III), hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, agitated
states, patients with a history of drug abuse, pregnancy, and during or within
14 days following MAO inhibitor therapy. Concurrent use with other anorectic
agents; stimulant medications are contraindicated for use in children with
attention deficit/hyperactivity disorders and concomitant Tourette's syndrome or
tics. |
|
|
Adverse
Reactions |
|
>10%:
Cardiovascular: Arrhythmia
Central nervous system: False feeling of well being, nervousness,
restlessness, insomnia
1% to 10%:
Cardiovascular: Hypertension,
Central nervous system: Mood or mental changes, dizziness, lightheadedness,
headache, xerostomia
Endocrine & metabolic: Changes in libido
Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, constipation,
anorexia, weight loss
Ocular: Blurred vision
Miscellaneous: Increased diaphoresis |
|
|
Drug
Interactions |
|
CYP3A3/4 enzyme substrate |
|
|
Mechanism of
Action |
|
Noncatechol sympathomimetic amines with pharmacologic actions similar to
ephedrine; require breakdown by monoamine oxidase for inactivation; produce
central nervous system and respiratory stimulation, a pressor response,
mydriasis, bronchodilation, and contraction of the urinary sphincter; thought to
have a direct effect on both alpha- and beta-receptor sites in the peripheral
system, as well as release stores of norepinephrine in adrenergic nerve
terminals; central nervous system action is thought to occur in the cerebral
cortex and reticular-activating system; anorexigenic effect is probably
secondary to the CNS-stimulating effect; the site of action is probably the
hypothalamic feeding center |
|
|
Usual Dosage |
|
Adults: Oral: 25-50 mg 2-3 times/day, preferably twice daily (midmorning and
midafternoon); maximum dose: 50 mg 3 times/day |
|
|
Dental Health: Local
Anesthetic/Vasoconstrictor
Precautions |
|
Use with caution since amphetamines have actions similar to epinephrine and
norepinephrine |
|
|
Dental Health:
Effects on Dental Treatment |
|
No effects or complications reported |
|
|
Patient
Information |
|
Take during day to avoid insomnia; do not discontinue abruptly, may be
addicting with prolonged use |
|
|
Nursing
Implications |
|
Monitor CNS |
|
|
Dosage Forms |
|
Tablet, as hydrochloride: 25 mg, 50 mg |
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