Diethylcathinone, also called Diethylpropion, is a sympathomimetic stimulant drug marketed as an appetite suppressant.

The popular antidepressant, Wellbutrin(bupropion) is a derivative of this chemical. Both diethypropion and bupropion have a stimulant effect on the CNS.

Its mechanism of action is similar to other appetite suppressants such as sibutramine, phentermine and dextroamphetamine. Chemically, it is the N,N-diethyl analog of cathinone and dimethylcathinone. Diethylpropion is manufactured in 25 mg tablets and 75 mg controlled-release tablets (Tenuate®, Tepanil Ten-Tab®). Diethylpropion is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance in the United States.

It is also used in the treatment of migraine (off-label).

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to sympathomimetic amines
• Advanced arteriosclerosis or symptomatic cardiovascular disease
• Moderate or severe hypertension
• Hyperthyroidism
• History of drug abuse
• MAO inhibitor use (within 14 days)

Side effects:

• Pulmonary hypertension
• Stroke
• Psychosis

Cardiovascular:

• Tachycardia, hypertension, arrhythmia, chest pain

Ear, nose, and throat:

• Xerostomia, metallic taste

Endocrine:

• Changes in libido, gynecomastia, menstrual irregularities

Eye:

• Blurred vision

Gastrointestinal:

• Nausea/vomiting, constipation, abdominal cramps

Hematological:

• Bone marrow depression, agranulocytosis, leukopenia

Neurological:

• Tremor

Psychological:

• Euphoria, agitation, nervousness, restlessness, dizziness, anxiety, headache, mental depression, seizures

Skin:

• Rash, hives, alopecia, ecchymosis

Urogenital and reproductive:

• Changes in libido, impotence

See also

• Methcathinone
• Methylenedioxymethcathinone

References