PMID: 2100250Jan 1, 1990Paper

The pharmacology of the anorexic effect of phenylpropanolamine

Drugs Under Experimental and Clinical Research
Paul J Wellman

Abstract

Phenylpropanolamine (PPA), the racemic mixture of d- and I-norephedrine, suppresses appetite in a variety of species and reduces body-fat content and weight. Explanations of the anorexic action of PPA have often started with the view that PPA is but a minimally potent variant of the amphetamine molecule. Yet studies conducted in the last 5 years reveal a number of important differences as to the site of action and neurochemical mechanism of action of amphetamine and PPA. The anorexic capacity of amphetamine is mediated by dopaminergic and beta-adrenergic activity within the perifornical hypothalamus (PFH). Direct injections of amphetamine within the PFH suppress feeding whereas PPA injections do not. Destruction of brain tissue that negates the anorexic action of amphetamine is without effect on PPA anorexia. Pharmacological blockade of dopamine receptors, using haloperidol, reduces amphetamine anorexia but is without effect on PPA anorexia. Yet, direct injections of PPA and amphetamine into the paraventricular hypothalamus suppress feeding. With regard to non-feeding behaviour, amphetamine markedly enhances locomotion and induces euphoria whereas PPA does not. These results strengthen the argument that PPA is not simply a vari...Continue Reading

Related Concepts

Related Feeds

Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a psychiatric condition characterized by severe weight loss and secondary problems associated with malnutrition. Here is the latest research on AN.

Aphasia

Aphasia affects the ability to process language, including formulation and comprehension of language and speech, as well as the ability to read or write. Here is the latest research on aphasia.