Benzphetamine Hydrochloride
FDA Drug Information • Also known as: Benzphetamine Hydrochloride
- Brand Names
- Benzphetamine Hydrochloride
- Route
- ORAL
- Dosage Form
- TABLET
- Product Type
- HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG
Description
DESCRIPTION Benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets contain the anorectic agent benzphetamine hydrochloride. Benzphetamine hydrochloride is a white crystalline powder readily soluble in water and 95% ethanol. The chemical name for benzphetamine hydrochloride is d -N,α-Dimethyl-N -(phenylmethyl)-benzeneethanamine hydrochloride and its molecular weight is 275.82. The structural formula (dextro form) is represented below: Each benzphetamine hydrochloride tablet, for oral administration, contains 50 mg of benzphetamine hydrochloride. Inactive Ingredients: carnauba wax powder, colloidal silicon dioxide, FD&C red # 40 aluminum lake, FD&C yellow # 6 aluminum lake, lactose monohydrate, macrogol/polyethylene glycol 3350, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose 101, polyvinyl alcohol – partially hydrolyzed, sodium starch glycolate, talc and titanium dioxide.
What Is Benzphetamine Hydrochloride Used For?
INDICATIONS AND USAGE Benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets are indicated in the management of exogenous obesity as a short term (a few weeks) adjunct in a regimen of weight reduction based on caloric restriction in patients with an initial body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or higher who have not responded to appropriate weight reducing regimen (diet and/or exercise) alone. Below is a chart of Body Mass Index (BMI) based on various heights and weights. BMI is calculated by taking the patient's weight, in kilograms (kg), divided by the patient's height, in meters (m), squared. Metric conversions are as follows: pounds ÷2.2 = kg; inches × 0.0254 = meters. The limited usefulness of agents of this class (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY ) should be weighed against possible risks inherent in their use such as those described below. Benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets are indicated for use as monotherapy only.
Dosage and Administration
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Dosage should be individualized according to the response of the patient. The suggested dosage ranges from 25 to 50 mg one to three times daily. Treatment should begin with 25 to 50 mg once daily with subsequent increase in individual dose or frequency according to response. A single daily dose is preferably given in mid-morning or mid-afternoon, according to the patient’s eating habits. In an occasional patient it may be desirable to avoid late afternoon administration. Use of benzphetamine hydrochloride is not recommended in individuals under 17 years of age.
Side Effects (Adverse Reactions)
ADVERSE REACTIONS The following have been associated with the use of benzphetamine hydrochloride: Cardiovascular Palpitation, tachycardia, elevation of blood pressure. There have been isolated reports of cardiomyopathy and ischemic cardiac events associated with chronic amphetamine use. Valvular heart disease associated with the use of some anorectic agents such as fenfluramine and dexfenfluramine, both independently and especially when used in combination with other anorectic drugs, have been reported. However, no cases of this valvulopathy have been reported when benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets have been used alone. CNS Overstimulation, restlessness, dizziness, insomnia, tremor, sweating, headache; rarely, psychotic episodes at recommended doses; depression following withdrawal of the drug. Gastrointestinal Dryness of the mouth, unpleasant taste, nausea, diarrhea, other gastrointestinal disturbances. Allergic Urticaria and other allergic reactions involving the skin. Endocrine Changes in libido.
Warnings and Precautions
WARNINGS Benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets should not be used in combination with other anorectic agents, including prescribed drugs, over-the-counter preparations and herbal products. In a case-control epidemiological study, the use of anorectic agents was associated with an increased risk of developing pulmonary hypertension, a rare, but often fatal disorder. The use of anorectic agents for longer than three months was associated with a 23-fold increase in the risk of developing pulmonary hypertension. Increased risk of pulmonary hypertension with repeated courses of therapy cannot be excluded. It should be noted that benzphetamine was not specifically studied in this case-control study. The onset or aggravation of exertional dyspnea, or unexplained symptoms of angina pectoris, syncope, or lower extremity edema suggest the possibility of occurrence of pulmonary hypertension. Under these circumstances, Benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets should be immediately discontinued, and the patient should be evaluated for the possible presence of pulmonary hypertension. Valvular heart disease associated with the use of some anorectic agents such as fenfluramine and dexfenfluramine has been reported. Possible contributing factors include use for extended periods of time, higher than recommended dose, and/or use in combination with other anorectic drugs. However, no cases of this valvulopathy have been reported when benzphetamine has been used alone. The potential risk of possible serious adverse effects such as valvular heart disease and pulmonary hypertension should be assessed carefully against the potential benefit of weight loss. Baseline cardiac evaluation should be considered to detect pre-existing valvular heart diseases or pulmonary hypertension prior to initiation of benzphetamine treatment. Benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets are not recommended in patients with known heart murmur or valvular heart disease. Echocardiogram during and after treatment could be useful for detecting any valvular disorders which may occur. To limit unwarranted exposure and risks, treatment with benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets should be continued only if the patient has satisfactory weight loss within the first 4 weeks of treatment (i.e., weight loss of at least 4 pounds, or as determined by the physician and patient). When tolerance to the anorectic effect develops, the recommended dose should not be exceeded in an attempt to increase the effect; rather, the drug should be discontinued. Benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets are not recommended for severely hypertensive patients or for patients with symptomatic cardiovascular disease including arrhythmias. Benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets are not recommended for patients who used any anorectic agents within the prior year.
Drug Interactions
Drug Interactions Efficacy of benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets in combination with other anorectic agents has not been studied and the combined use may have the potential for serious cardiac problems. Hypertensive crises have resulted when sympathomimetic amines have been used concomitantly or within 14 days following use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets should not be used concomitantly with other CNS stimulants. Amphetamines may decrease the hypotensive effect of antihypertensives. Amphetamines may enhance the effects of tricyclic antidepressants. Urinary alkalinizing agents increase blood levels and decrease excretion of amphetamines. Urinary acidifying agents decrease blood levels and increase excretion of amphetamines.
Contraindications
CONTRAINDICATIONS Benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets are contraindicated in patients with advanced arteriosclerosis, symptomatic cardiovascular disease, moderate to severe hypertension, hyperthyroidism, known hypersensitivity or idiosyncrasy to sympathomimetic amines, and glaucoma. Benzphetamine should not be given to patients who are in an agitated state or who have a history of drug abuse. Hypertensive crises have resulted when sympathomimetic amines have been used concomitantly or within 14 days following use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets should not be used concomitantly with other CNS stimulants. Benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Amphetamines have been shown to be teratogenic and embryotoxic in mammals at high multiples of the human dose. Benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets are contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant. If this drug is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnancy Benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets are contraindicated in pregnancy.
Nursing Mothers Amphetamines are excreted in human milk. Mothers taking amphetamines should be advised to refrain from nursing.
Overdosage
OVERDOSAGE Manifestations of Overdosage Acute overdosage with amphetamines may result in restlessness, tremor, tachypnea, confusion, assaultiveness and panic states. Fatigue and depression usually follow the central stimulation. Cardiovascular effects include arrhythmias, hypertension or hypotension, and circulatory collapse. Gastrointestinal symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Hyperpyrexia and rhabdomyolysis have been reported and can lead to a number of associated complications. Fatal poisoning is usually preceded by convulsions and coma. Treatment of Overdosage (See WARNINGS )--- Information concerning the effects of overdosage with benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets is extremely limited. The following is based on experience with other anorexiants. Management of acute amphetamine intoxication is largely symptomatic and includes sedation with a barbiturate. If hypertension is marked, the use of a nitrite or rapidly acting alpha receptor blocking agent should be considered. Experience with hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis is inadequate to permit recommendations in this regard. Acidification of the urine increases amphetamine excretion. The oral LD 50 is 174 mg/kg in mice and 104 mg/kg in rats. The intraperitoneal LD 50 in mice is 153 mg/kg.
How Supplied
HOW SUPPLIED Benzphetamine hydrochloride tablets USP, 50 mg are supplied as peach, round, biconvex, film coated tablets debossed with “K” on left of the score and the number “40” debossed right of the score and plain on other side. NDC: 71335-0451-1: 30 Tablets in a BOTTLE NDC: 71335-0451-2: 7 Tablets in a BOTTLE NDC: 71335-0451-3: 14 Tablets in a BOTTLE NDC: 71335-0451-4: 21 Tablets in a BOTTLE NDC: 71335-0451-5: 42 Tablets in a BOTTLE NDC: 71335-0451-6: 84 Tablets in a BOTTLE NDC: 71335-0451-7: 60 Tablets in a BOTTLE NDC: 71335-0451-8: 90 Tablets in a BOTTLE NDC: 71335-0451-9: 120 Tablets in a BOTTLE Dispense in a tight container as defined in the USP, with a child-resistant closure (as required). Store at 20° to 25°C with excursions permitted between 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Rx only Repackaged/Relabeled by: Bryant Ranch Prepack, Inc. Burbank, CA 9150
About This Information
This drug information is sourced from FDA-approved labeling via the openFDA database. It is intended for educational and reference purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making decisions about medication. Drug information may be updated by the FDA; check with your pharmacist for the most current information.
What are side effects?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can occur when taking a medication. They range from mild (headache, nausea) to severe (allergic reactions, organ damage). Not everyone experiences side effects, and severity varies. Report any concerning side effects to your doctor.
What are drug interactions?
Drug interactions occur when a medication is affected by another drug, food, or supplement. Interactions can make medications less effective or cause dangerous side effects. Always tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you take.