Anorexiant
PREGNANCY RECOMMENDATION: Contraindicated
BREASTFEEDING RECOMMENDATION: Contraindicated
PREGNANCY SUMMARY
No reports describing the use of benzphetamine in human pregnancy have been located. There are no animal reproductive data, but because of its close relationship to amphetamines, the manufacturer classes the drug as contraindicated during pregnancy. Although this drug should not be used in pregnancy, inadvertent exposure to benzphetamine does not appear to represent a significant risk to the embryo or fetus (see Amphetamines).
FETAL RISK SUMMARY
The sympathomimetic amine, benzphetamine, is chemically and pharmacologically related to the amphetamines. The primary pharmacologic actions include CNS stimulation and elevation of blood pressure. The drug is contraindicated in patients with moderate to severe hypertension and several other conditions. Benzphetamine is indicated in the management of obesity in combination with a regimen of weight reduction based on caloric restriction. As with all agents in this class, tolerance and tachyphylaxis may develop. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted (1).
It is not known if benzphetamine crosses the human placenta to the fetus. The relatively low molecular weight (about 276), however, suggests that exposure of the embryo–fetus will occur.
BREASTFEEDING SUMMARY
No reports describing the use of benzphetamine during lactation have been located. The relatively low molecular weight (about 276) suggests that the drug will be excreted in breast milk. The effects on a nursing infant from exposure via the milk are unknown, but there is potential for severe toxicity. Benzphetamine is chemically and pharmacologically related to the amphetamines. As such, it is contraindicated during nursing. (See Amphetamines.)
Reference
1.Product information. Didrex. Pharmacia, 2000.