Benzphetamine is asympathomimeticamine and is classified as ananorectic.[9] The drug's main function is to reduce appetite, which in turn reduces caloric intake.[10][11]
Although the mechanism of action of the sympathomimetic appetite suppressants in the treatment of obesity is not fully known, these medications have pharmacological effects similar to those of amphetamines.Amphetamine and related sympathomimetic medications (such as benzphetamine) are thought to stimulate the release ofnorepinephrine and/ordopamine from storage sites in nerve terminals of the lateral hypothalamic feeding center, thereby producing a decrease in appetite. This release is mediated through the binding of benzphetamine toVMAT2 and inhibiting its function, causing a release of these neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft through their reuptake transporters.Tachyphylaxis and tolerance have been demonstrated with all drugs of this class.[12][13]
Benzphetamine is unique in its classification as aSchedule III substance in the United States, given that most members of the amphetamine family are classified in the more highly regulatedSchedule II tier. Benzphetamine is metabolized by the human body intoamphetamine andmethamphetamine, making it aprodrugs the aforementioned molcecules, as well as one of a number of substances that convertin vivo conversion into a substance of higher addiction and abuse potential.[15]Clobenzorex, as previously stated, is completely uncontrolled by the Controlled Substances or Federal Analogue Acts, yet is an analog and derivative of benzphetamine.
^Budd RD, Jain NC (1978). "Short Communication: Metabolism and Excretion of Benzphetamine: Sources of Error in Reporting Results".Journal of Analytical Toxicology.2 (6): 241.doi:10.1093/jat/2.6.241.
^Valentine JL, Middleton R (April 2000). "GC-MS identification of sympathomimetic amine drugs in urine: rapid methodology applicable for emergency clinical toxicology".Journal of Analytical Toxicology.24 (3):211–222.doi:10.1093/jat/24.3.211.PMID10774541.
^Musshoff F (February 2000). "Illegal or legitimate use? Precursor compounds to amphetamine and methamphetamine".Drug Metabolism Reviews.32 (1):15–44.doi:10.1081/DMR-100100562.PMID10711406.S2CID20012024.
