DOUBLE-BLIND COMPARISON OF FENFLURAMINE AND DEXTROAMPHETAMINE ON FEEDING-BEHAVIOR IN MAN

A double-blind study was carried our in 6 healthy female subjects to compare the effects of amphetamine and fenfluramine on hunger and food intake. Each subject participated in three experimental sessions 1 week apart when they received either 10 mg dextroamphetamine, 80 mg fenjluramine or placebo in random order under double-blind conditions after a 6-hour fast. Visual analogue scales for hunger, mood and arousal were completed prior to drug administration and subsequently at hourly intervals for 4 hours. A sample of venous blood was taken for plasma drug level estimation at 2 hours and 4 hours after drug administration. Free feeding was allowed for 2 hours from an automated food dispenser, which provided a continuous record of food intake. A questionnaire was completed relating to sleep patterns and side-effects after each experimental session. Dextroamphetamine produced a significant reduction in both hunger ratings and food intake compared to placebo. Fenjluramine caused a similar reduction in hunger ratings but a much greater effect on food intake, inhibiting it completely in 4 out of the 6 subjects. Fenjluramine (80 mg) caused untoward side- effects in the majority of subjects: in 2 subjects these were severe. © 1979 Informa UK Ltd All rights reserved: reproduction in whole or part not permitted.