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Phentermine


Mechanism of action:

Phentermine is a phenethylamine derivative that primarily acts on neurons in the hypothalamus. It enters presynaptic neurons through the norepinephrine transporter and further disrupts the normal function of vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2), collapsing the proton gradient inside synaptic vesicles and causing norepinephrine to leak from the vesicles into the cytoplasm. The cytoplasmic norepinephrine is then released into the synaptic cleft through reverse transport by the norepinephrine transporter, activating neural circuits related to appetite suppression.

Reference(s):

1. Ryder JR et al. (2017). Effect of phentermine on weight reduction in a pediatric weight management clinic. Int J Obes (Lond). 


2. Kiortsis DN et al. (2013). A review of the metabolic effects of controlled-release Phentermine/Topiramate. Hormones (Athens). 


3. Garvey WT et al. (2013). Phentermine and topiramate extended-release: a new treatment for obesity and its role in a complications-centric approach to obesity medical management. Expert Opin Drug Saf.

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