Description
Tesofensine has been researched as a way to treat obesity via its ability to reduce appetite. This
molecular compound indirectly stimulates the cholinergic system and showed to be more
successful than other weight loss agents. Tesofensine (TE) increases transmission of 3
monoaminergic neurotransmitters in the brain.
Tesofensine is a serotonin-noradrenaline-dopamine reuptake inhibitor which was originally
studied for its effect on Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Unfortunately, its exploration for these
indications were limited because the research subjects starting losing too much weight. Since
then, tesofensine has been studied as a way to treat obesity via its ability to reduce appetite. This
molecular compound indirectly stimulates the cholinergic system and showed to be more
successful than other weight loss agents. Tesofensine (TE) increases transmission of 3
monoaminergic neurotransmitters in the brain. These neurotransmitters are serotonin,
norepinephrine, and dopamine which help regulate energy balance and are linked to obesity and
depression. On average, its 6-month weight loss results from a phase 2b clinical trial resulted in
a weight loss of around 25 pounds. TE research has shown a pronounced effect on appetite
sensations and a slight effect on energy expenditure. Both effects can contribute to the strong
weight reducing effect.
Tesofensine (also called TE) is a novel norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin
reuptake inhibitor (triple reuptake inhibitor) that was initially developed for the treatment of
neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. As it turns out,
the benefits of tesofensine extend further to include increased weight loss, even for people who
do not undergo dietary changes. Tesofensine is now in phase Ill clinical trials as a weight loss aid.
Tesofensine is a member of the class of medications known as “triple reuptake inhibitors.” It
prevents the presynaptic reuptake of neurotransmitters norepinephrine, dopamine, and
serotonin. This leads to an increase in the effects of these neurotransmitters.
Tesofensine is a member of the phenyltropane class of drugs, which were originally developed
to reduce cocaine dependency In fact; this class of drugs arose as a result of efforts to
disassociate the stimulant properties of cocaine from the factors that cause it to be addictive. In
other words, the phenyltropane drugs are designed to stimulate the central nervous system
without creating addiction.
It should come as no surprise, given their origins, that compounds like tesofensine have
profound effects on neurotransmission, particularly dopamine, which is responsible for reward
and craving behaviors. Research shows that tesofensine has no potential for recreational
abuse, suggesting that at least some of the goals of efforts to dissociate the properties of
certain stimulants have been achieved.