Consumption of anorexigenic amphetamine‐like drugs (diethylpropion, fenproporex and mazindol) and of d,1-fenfluramine in Brazil during the years of 1988 and 1989

Abstract

Brazilian consumption of psychotimulant anorexigenic drugs — diethylpropion, fenproporex, and mazindol — and of 3,1-fenfluramine was studied, and results are presented in terms of DDDs/1000 inhabitants/day. As of 1988, consumption of these drugs in Brazil was equal to 4.59 DDDs/1000 inhabitants/day; in the following year it had risen by 43.8%. However, if only the population that can afford to buy medicines is considered, actual consumption figures are at least three times higher. Such numbers point to a very high rate of anorexigenic consumption in Brazil, in contrast with other countries where use of these drugs is smaller. It was also found that 68.6% of total consumption in 1988 — and 39.4% in 1989 — corresponded to prescription formulas prepared by specialized pharmacies, while the remainder was consumed in the form of ready-made medicines produced by pharmaceutical industries. The most used drugs were mazindol in 1988, and fenproporex in 1989; d,1-fenfluramine was the least used of these substances in both years. These reasons are discussed for this increased consumption in Brazil and the absence of an adequate controlling attitude on the part of public health authorities.