Diethylpropion

Diethylpropion is a medication used for a short term to aid weight loss,  in addition to calorie-restricted diet and exercise.  Diethylpropion is used in people whose obesity is the result of excessive food intake and inadequate exercise (exogenous obesity), and who are unable to reduce weight with diet and exercise alone. 

Diethylpropion reduces appetite and fat storage and increases energy expenditure. Diethylpropion is a stimulant drug that has structural and chemical similarities to the amphetamine class of drugs and works similarly by stimulating the central nervous system. Diethylpropion is a sympathomimetic drug which mimics the action of natural chemicals in the body that stimulate the sympathetic nervous system. 

Diethylpropion increases the levels of chemicals known as catecholamines (neurotransmitters), including dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which stimulate the central nervous system. High levels of dopamine and norepinephrine suppress appetite and hunger signals. Increase in catecholamine levels may also increase the levels of leptin, a peptide hormone signal satiety, and reduce the levels of another protein molecule known as neuropeptide Y that stimulates appetite, reduces energy expenditure, and increases fat storage. Diethylpropion indirectly reduces appetite by increasing catecholamine levels in the brain.