WEIGHT LOSS PILL TYPE: A nonamphetamine Appetite suppressant, schedule IV controlled substance with low possibility of misuse. Mazindol was authorized for weight management by the Food and Drug Administration in 1973.
SOLD AS: Mazindol comes in 1- and 2-mg tablets.
RESEARCH: Many reports have considered the effectiveness and safety of mazindol. In a Japanese research released in 1995, the typical amount of weight lost was about 15 pounds when mazindol was utilized in addition to a very-law-calorie diet. About 53 percent of the patients kept the weight off after discontinuing the very low-calorie diet, at least for a little while. The patients also had improved cholesterol, triglyceride, and blood pressure levels. These extra rewards have been seen in other scientific studies as well.
Since it is hard for people to carry on and lose weight after being on a very-low-calorie diet and then going off of it, researchers looked at whether mazindol can help you in these situations. In 1996, Japanese scientists tested their theory in thirteen significantly obese women. They discovered that mazindol ended in additional weight loss averaging 15 pounds after 3-4 months of treatment. The women also had improved insulin sensitivity related to mazindol use, which triggered relatively stable blood sugar and energy levels.
One recent study (1997) noted that two men suffered a semen ike release while taking mazindol. This undesirable response was not listed with the expected side effects, and the research workers proposed that it be included in the list of adverse effect possibilities.
WHAT IS IT SUPPOSED TO DO: Mazindol stimulates the satiety (feeling of fullness) center in the hypothalamus and limbic regions of the brain, where appetite and hunger are controlled. In order to work, mazindol must he used in addition to a low-calorie eating plan,behavior modification, and a physical exercise program. Nevertheless, weight loss may be only short-term, especially after the drug is discontinued. To maintain weight loss or to continue to lose additional weight after stopping mazindol, it is necessary to follow a sensible eating plan and an exercise program.
DOSAGE: Mazindol should be used only under a doctor’s supervision and for no longer than 2 to 3 months. The typical dose is 1 mg 3 times per day, 1 hour before meals; or. 2 mg 1 time per day, before lunch. If stomach upset occurs, you can take it after meals.
SIDE EFFECTS: Although mazindol is not an amphetamine, it brings about a lot of the same side effects, including nervousness; restlessness; insomnia; euphoria; and overstimulation. Less frequent side effects include high blood pressure; heart palpitations; drowsiness or sedation; dizziness; tremors; headache; dry mouth; nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; rash; itching; hair loss; muscle pain; sweating; chills; blurred vision; fever; changes in sex drive; urinary retention; testicular pain; and weakness.
PRECAUTIONS: Do not take mazindol if you have high blood pressure, thyroid disease, glaucoma, or heart disease, or if you are sensitive or allergic to any type of appetite suppressant – prescription or nonprescription. Avoid mazindol if you are prone to substance abuse, emotional agitation, or have suicidal thoughts. Older people should not get rnazindol unless under a doctor’s strict supervision. Mazindol can interact with other drugs. Due to the fact mazindol stimulates the brain and nerves, if it is taken along with other stimulants such as cold remedies, decongestants, and some asthma medicines, it can boost blood pressure and heart rate. Mazindol should not be taken within 14 days of any MAO inhibitor, as it may result in very high blood pressure. If you are getting high blood pressure medication, mazindol may counteract the medication.
Mazindol, like other appetite suppressants, often causes dry mouth, which can increase the chance of developing gum disease and dental cavities. Special attention to oral hygiene, including use of sugarless gum and sugarless hard candies, drinking lots of water, or sucking on ice chips, is recommended while taking these drugs .
Studies show that large doses of mazindol can harm the fetus. Do not use mazindol if you are pregnant or could be pregnant. Since it is not known whether mazindol passes into breast milk, women who are breast-feeding should not take mazindol.