Clobenzorex
An amphetamine prodrug anorectic still sold in parts of Latin America (notably Mexico) under names such as Asenlix. It is metabolised to d-amphetamine, which drives both its appetite-suppressing effect and its abuse potential and its notoriety as a cause of positive amphetamine drug tests.
01 Overview
Clobenzorex is N-(2-chlorobenzyl)amphetamine, a prodrug that is cleaved in the body to release dextroamphetamine. It was developed as a short-term appetite suppressant and remains available in several countries despite being unapproved and controlled in the US and much of Europe.
Because it liberates amphetamine, clobenzorex carries genuine stimulant, cardiovascular and dependence risks, and users may unknowingly test positive for amphetamine. It is frequently discussed in forensic toxicology for this reason.
02 Mechanism
A prodrug metabolised to d-amphetamine, which releases dopamine and noradrenaline in hypothalamic and mesolimbic pathways, suppressing appetite and producing stimulation.
03 Dosing
| Tier | Dose | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical anorectic dose | 30–60 mg/day | Oral | Usually one 30 mg capsule before breakfast; short-term use only. |
04 Effects
| Effect | Magnitude | Evidence | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appetite suppressionReduced hunger via its amphetamine metabolite, producing modest weight loss over weeks. | short-term weight loss | Observational | |
| Stimulation and wakefulnessIncreased alertness and energy driven by released dextroamphetamine. | amphetamine-like | Observational |
05 Side effects
| Effect | Severity | Frequency | Evidence | Countermeasures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiovascular stimulationRaised heart rate and blood pressure, palpitations. | Moderate | Common | Observational | |
| Dependence and positive amphetamine testReinforcing amphetamine metabolite can cause dependence; users test positive for amphetamine on immunoassays. | Moderate | Common | Observational |