Major Research Findings

This study aimed to evaluate the untoward effects of fenfluramine in children with autism. 1 . A double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over study was conducted on 12 subjects, with parents trained to monitor side effects. 1 . The study found that during the first two weeks of active drug treatment, listlessness, food refusal, and stomach upset were commonly observed. 1 . A different pattern of side effects was observed in the final 14 weeks of treatment, including irritability, agitation, and crying, along with continued food refusal. 1 . Additionally, subjects experienced a 2.1% decrease in body weight during the active drug phase, with a rebound weight gain during the subsequent placebo phase. 1 .

Reasons for Side Effects

Fenfluramine is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, which increases serotonin levels in the brain. 1 . Serotonin is known to influence mood, appetite, sleep, learning, and memory. 1 . The side effects observed with fenfluramine are thought to be caused by increased serotonin levels. 1 .

Common Side Effects

Listlessness

Listlessness was frequently observed during the first two weeks of fenfluramine treatment. 1 .

Food Refusal

Food refusal was observed during both the initial two weeks and the final 14 weeks of fenfluramine treatment. 1 .

Stomach Upset

Stomach upset was frequently observed during the first two weeks of fenfluramine treatment. 1 .

Irritability

Irritability was observed during the final 14 weeks of fenfluramine treatment. 1 .

Agitation

Agitation was observed during the final 14 weeks of fenfluramine treatment. 1 .

Crying

Crying was observed during the final 14 weeks of fenfluramine treatment. 1 .

Weight Loss

Subjects experienced a 2.1% decrease in body weight during the active drug phase. 1 .

Weight Gain

A rebound weight gain was observed during the subsequent placebo phase. 1 .

Side Effects Management

Listlessness

If listlessness is severe, consult a doctor. 1 .

Food Refusal

If food refusal persists, consult a doctor. 1 .

Stomach Upset

If stomach upset is severe, consult a doctor. 1 .

Irritability

If irritability is severe, consult a doctor. 1 .

Agitation

If agitation is severe, consult a doctor. 1 .

Crying

If crying is severe, consult a doctor. 1 .

Weight Loss

If weight loss is a concern, consult a doctor. 1 .

Weight Gain

If weight gain is a concern, consult a doctor. 1 .

Comparison of Studies

Commonalities

This study aimed to evaluate the untoward effects of fenfluramine in children with autism. 1 . It employed a double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over study design with parents trained in side effect monitoring. 1 .

Differences

This study stands out for having a smaller sample size compared to other research. 1 .

Real-World Implications

While this study suggests that fenfluramine might be a beneficial treatment for autistic children, it's important to acknowledge the potential side effects. 1 . Before administering fenfluramine, thorough consultation with a doctor and careful observation of side effects are crucial. 1 .

Limitations of Current Research

This study had a small sample size. 1 . Furthermore, the short duration of fenfluramine treatment means there's limited information about long-term side effects. 1 .

Future Research Directions

Larger-scale studies with longer follow-up periods are required. 1 . Additionally, research on long-term impacts of fenfluramine and comparative studies with other treatments are needed. 1 .

Conclusion

This study suggests a potential benefit of fenfluramine for autistic children, but it's crucial to be aware of the potential side effects. 1 . Always consult with a doctor before administering fenfluramine, and monitor for any adverse reactions. 1 .