appetite suppressant
any agent that reduces desire for food and thus controls body weight, including the amphetamines and other stimulants (e.g., phentermine, diethylpropion), sibutramine, and serotonin agonists (fenfluramine, dexfenfluramine). Use of the latter compounds, particularly in combination with phentermine (so-called phen-fen), resulted in heart-valve defects, and this combination was removed from the market. Although appetite suppressants may result in short-term weight loss, there is no evidence that they achieve long-term weight reduction unless used in conjunction with a behavioral management program. Also called anorectant; anorexiant.