An investigation of the serotonergic effects of fenfluramine, dexfenfluramine and dexnorfenfluramine using platelets as neuronal models

Platelets. 2000 May;11(3):161-5. doi: 10.1080/095371000403099.

Abstract

The appetite-suppressant, fenfluramine (d,l-F) has been used for several decades to treat obesity. Dexfenfluramine (d-F), the d-enantiomer of d,l-F, was approved in 1996 for long-term administration. Subsequently, these drugs were voluntarily withdrawn due to reports of adverse effects on heart valves. So far, the evidence regarding the serotonergic action of d,l-F and d-F has relied on animal-based experiments. We used human platelets as neuronal models to assess the serotonergic action of both d,l-F, d-F and the main metabolite of d-F, d-norfenfluramine (d-norF). This was evaluated using a sensitive method that assesses platelet shape change (PSC) as expressed by an increase in median platelet volume (MPV). Human platelets increased their MPV in response to d-norF. This action was probably mediated via serotonin (subtype 2) receptors because a specific antagonist blocked it. This is the first demonstration, using human tissue, of the serotonergic action associated with the administration of d-F.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Appetite Depressants / pharmacology
  • Blood Platelets / cytology
  • Blood Platelets / drug effects*
  • Cell Size / drug effects
  • Dexfenfluramine / pharmacology
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Female
  • Fenfluramine / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Models, Biological
  • Neurons / cytology
  • Neurons / drug effects
  • Norfenfluramine / pharmacology
  • Phenethylamines / pharmacology*
  • Serotonin / pharmacology
  • Serotonin Agents / pharmacology*
  • Serotonin Antagonists / pharmacology
  • Serotonin Receptor Agonists / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Appetite Depressants
  • Phenethylamines
  • Serotonin Agents
  • Serotonin Antagonists
  • Serotonin Receptor Agonists
  • Norfenfluramine
  • Fenfluramine
  • Serotonin
  • Dexfenfluramine