Diverted substances to lose weight: Prohibited preparations
Some substances have as a side effect to lose weight and are diverted for use for this purpose. But they often have other potentially serious adverse effects.
The use of many drugs is diverted their marketing authorization (MA) to lose weight. This is particularly the case with diuretics, amphetamine derivatives, thyroid hormones, psychotropic and topiramate (Epitomax ° or other). Some caregivers contribute to such use despite bans from the French Agency of Health Products (MSNA).
In June 2012, the MSNA banned or framed use in preparations made in pharmacies (in town or in the hospital) of certain substances used for purposes of weight loss for most. The MSNA considered the unfavorable risk-benefit balance in this situation.
The use of Garcinia cambogia plant, Hoodia gordonii and green fruits of Citrus aurantium is prohibited in the preparations. The use of the following substances is prohibited in preparations: clenbuterol (not marketed in France), clonazepam (Rivotril °), exenatide (Byetta °), liraglutide (Victoza °), meprobamate (formerly Equanil °), orlistat (Alli ° ° Xenical) and synephrine (not sold not associated in France).
19 others are prohibited in preparation for slimming referred but still allowed for other reasons.
Among the substances listed by the MSNA, only orlistat has a marketing authorization in obese patients, despite the risk of adverse effects and drug interactions disproportionate. Other substances are used for diet in a roundabout way. This diversion exposes patients to the many side effects of these substances.
These prohibitions are consistent with the protection of patients.