Clinical studies with phenylpropanolamine: a metaanalysis

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Abstract
The combined analysis of parallel double-blind studies of prescription anorectic drugs in 1973 showed 0.23 kg/ wk more weight loss than placebo at the end of the studies. In 1985, the combined studies of phenylpropanolamine (PPA) and PPA with caffeine gave 0.27 kg/wk more weight loss than placebo, but since 1985, this difference has dropped to 0.14 kg/wk in the combined studies with PPA. The incidence of adverse reactions in the combined studies with PPA were 19% and 14% for placebo (P < 0.02). These adverse reactions were mild, however, and ceased with drug discontinuation. The two nonprescription anorectic drugs, PPA and benzocaine, and their combination, were compared in a 40-patient study. Benzocaine gave less weight loss than PPA (P < 0.05 ANOVA). Thus, PPA is safe and effective for weight loss, appears less effective than prescription anorectics in studies exceeding 4 wk, and weight loss was not enhanced by combination with benzocaine.

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