Fenfluramine

Fenfluramine is a secondary amino compound that is 1-phenyl-propan-2-amine in which one of the meta-hydrogens is substituted by trifluoromethyl, and one of the hydrogens attached to the nitrogen is substituted by an ethyl group. It binds to the serotonin reuptake pump, causing inhbition of serotonin uptake and release of serotonin. The resulting increased levels of serotonin lead to greater serotonin receptor activation which in turn lead to enhancement of serotoninergic transmission in the centres of feeding behavior located in the hypothalamus. This suppresses the appetite for carbohydrates. Fenfluramine was used as the hydrochloride for treatment of diabetes and obesity. It was withdrawn worldwide after reports of heart valve disease and pulmonary hypertension. Among its listed roles, it functions as a serotonergic agonist, an appetite depressant and a serotonin uptake inhibitor. It is a secondary amino compound and a member of (trifluoromethyl)benzenes. Its therapeutic use is listed as anticonvulsants and central nervous system (CNS) agents. The directory classifies it as a commercial API with a synthetic source/manufacturing origin. Other names for this substance include Obedrex, Rotondin, Pesos and Ponderax PA. Its PubChem CID is 3337.