Why do amphetamines suppress appetite?
I know that amphetamine-based medications suppress both the desire to eat as well as the feeling of hunger, but what occurs in the body that actually causes this to happen? Do the amphetamines block the brain receptor that regulates appetite?
I’ve also heard that taking amphetamines causes the stomach to “shrink,” or contract temporarily while under the effects of the drugs. Is this true at all?
Best answer:
Answer by Niki Fm
Amphetamines are like having a long lasting rush of adrenaline (epinephrine). The sympathetic nervous system is activated, so increased fight or flight response to muscles and breathing and decreased rest and digestion. So the hormones and paracrines factors that stimulate digestion and hunger are suppressed in their secretion. I am not sure if they ‘block’ the brain receptor directly but you have the right idea. The stomach expands and shrinks to the food in it, so if it does not have alot of food it will be contracted.
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