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