Tesofensine
Also known as: NS2330
A triple monoamine reuptake inhibitor (serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine) originally developed for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, then repurposed for obesity. It showed strong weight loss in Phase 2 trials and has been submitted for approval in Mexico, but is not FDA-approved in the U.S.
How it works
Tesofensine blocks the reuptake of three brain chemicals: serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. This triple action reduces appetite and increases feelings of fullness after eating. It also slightly boosts your resting metabolic rate, helping your body burn more calories at rest.
Common uses
- Obesity treatment (investigational)
- Appetite suppression
- Metabolic weight management
Side effects
- Dry mouth
- Insomnia
- Increased heart rate
- Constipation
- Headache
- Elevated blood pressure
- Mood changes (due to dopamine and serotonin effects)
- Potential for cardiovascular effects at higher doses
Key research
- Phase 2 trial (Lancet 2008) showed 10.6% weight loss at 0.5 mg and 12.8% at 1.0 mg over 24 weeks
- Phase 3 program by Saniona/Medix completed in Mexico, confirming Phase 2 results
- COFEPRIS (Mexico's FDA equivalent) issued favorable opinion for approval in February 2023
Safety notes
- Not FDA-approved in the United States
- Cardiovascular effects (increased heart rate and blood pressure) are a concern, especially at higher doses
- Acts on the central nervous system. Should not be combined with antidepressants or other monoamine drugs without medical oversight
- Approved or under review in Mexico but timeline for US approval is unknown
- Not a peptide but often grouped with metabolic peptide therapies
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