Helpline
Call 1.855.378.4373 to schedule a call time with a specialist or visit scheduler.drugfree.org
Helpline
Helpline
Call 1.855.378.4373 to schedule a call time with a specialist

    Anorectic drugs, which are often referred to as diet pills, were developed and marketed to replace amphetamines as appetite suppressants. Although anorectic drugs do in fact produce many of the same effects as amphetamines, they are generally less potent than amphetamines. All anorectics are controlled substances owing to the similarity of their effects to those of the amphetamines.

    Understand the risks

    Side effects of anorectic drugs include dizziness, dry mouth, difficulty sleeping, irritability, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Unlikely but more serious side effects include fast or irregular or pounding heartbeat, mental or mood changes, such as increased agitation, uncontrolled anger, hallucinations, nervousness; uncontrolled muscle movements, and change in sexual ability or interest.

    Identify & address use

    Signs of the use of anorectics include dizziness, difficulty sleeping, irritability, diarrhea and constipation. If you’re concerned your child may be misusing anorectics or other substances, the following can help you address the behavior more effectively.

    A few simple tips and guidelines can go a long way toward spotting issues with drug use earlier rather than later. Read More
    Learn more
    It can be scary if your child is using drugs or alcohol, and it's important to confront it. We're here to give you tips and strategies on how to do it. Read More

    Table of commonly prescribed anorectics

    Generic Drug Composition Brand Name
    benzphetamine Didrex
    diethylproprion Tenuate, Tepanil
    fenfluramine Pondimin
    mazindol Sanorex, Mazanor
    phendimetrazine Bontril, Prelu-2, Plegine
    phentermine Ionamin, AdipexP

    Last Updated

    October 2023

    [1]PubMed. “Anorectic Drugs: use in general practice.” US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/782835. Accessed 26 Oct. 2018.

    Sources:

    National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA); Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA)