Anorectic drugs, which are often referred to as diet pills, were developed and marketed to replace amphetamines as appetite suppressants. Although anorectic drugs do in fact produce many of the same effects as amphetamines, they are generally less potent than amphetamines. All anorectics are controlled substances owing to the similarity of their effects to those of the amphetamines.
Side effects of anorectic drugs include dizziness, dry mouth, difficulty sleeping, irritability, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Unlikely but more serious side effects include fast or irregular or pounding heartbeat, mental or mood changes, such as increased agitation, uncontrolled anger, hallucinations, nervousness; uncontrolled muscle movements, and change in sexual ability or interest.
Signs of the use of anorectics include dizziness, difficulty sleeping, irritability, diarrhea and constipation. If you’re concerned your child may be misusing anorectics or other substances, the following can help you address the behavior more effectively.
Last Updated
October 2023
[1]PubMed. “Anorectic Drugs: use in general practice.” US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/782835. Accessed 26 Oct. 2018.
Sources:
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA); Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA)