Phenylpropanolamine is an anorectic, or a substance that causes loss of appetite. Medications containing phenylpropanolamine aid diet efforts over a short term. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, lists phenylpropanolamine as a drug of high abuse potential. Over-the-counter diet pills containing phenylpropanolamine are no longer available in the United States.
Phenylpropanolamine as a Diet Aid
Phenylpropanolamine mimics the stimulating effects of norepinephrine, a natural chemical that works within the nervous system. Phenylpropanolamine stimulates muscles, quickens the heart rate and increases alertness, which makes the body ready for the fight-or-flight response to stress. At the same time, it slows down gastrointestinal function, even to the point of anorexia or no appetite. People take phenylpropanolamine as a dietary aid to curb appetite and to burn more calories.
Other Uses
Phenylpropanolamine also affects blood vessels. It constricts the peripheral blood vessels, including those in the nose and sinuses. By constricting the blood vessels of the mucous membranes in the upper respiratory system, phenylpropanolamine acts as a decongestant. It also stimulates certain muscles in the lower urinary tract in dogs, and veterinarians give it to them to help with bladder control. Similar chemicals make lung passages relax and are used as inhalers for mild asthma.
Considerations
Because it narrows small blood vessels, those with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease and diabetes should avoid phenylpropanolamine. It can worsen symptoms of glaucoma, prostate and thyroid problems. People over 60 years old should exercise caution when taking phenylpropanolamine; they may need to take less than the recommended dose. Those taking medications should ask their health care provider or pharmacist about the safety of products containing phenylpropanolamine.
Side Effects
Phenylpropanolamine plays a role in increasing the risk of hemorrhagic stroke in women. It can also cause agitated behavior and psychotic symptoms, including hallucinations. Irregular or rapid heartbeat is another side effect of phenylpropanolamine and can cause serious cardiac events. Anaphylactic allergic reactions and seizures can occur and may require emergency care. Phenylpropanolamine also causes less serious side effects, such as lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, anxiety, trouble sleeping, nausea and excessive sweating.
Phenylpropranolamine and Legislation
The FDA determined that ingesting phenylpropanolamine poses unreasonable risks, and in 2000, they asked drug companies to stop manufacturing products that contain phenylpropanolamine. Phenylpropanolamine is also used to manufacture methamphetamine, and the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005 banned the sale of over-the-counter diet aids containing phenylpropanolamine.
References
- Drugs: Phenylpropanolamine
- Pharmaceuticals: Restrictions in Use and Availability
- Phenylpropanolamine (PPA) Information Page
- Guidance for Industry: Final Rule Declaring Dietary Supplements Containing Ephedrine Alkaloids Adulterated Because They Present an Unreasonable Risk; Small Entity Compliance Guide
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Legal Requirements for the Sale and Purchase of Drug Products Containing Pseudoephedrine, Ephedrine, and Phenylpropanolamine
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