Fencamfamine
Fencamfamine (Reactivan) is a norbornane-derived CNS stimulant developed in the 1960s as an appetite/fatigue agent and mild antidepressant. It acts as an indirect dopaminergic and is a Schedule IV controlled substance; it is now little used and has limited modern clinical data.
01 Overview
Fencamfamine was marketed (often combined with vitamins as Reactivan) for fatigue, convalescence and depressive lethargy. It produces stimulation with reportedly less anorectic and cardiovascular effect than amphetamine at therapeutic doses.
Because it has abuse potential it is internationally scheduled (Convention on Psychotropic Substances, Schedule IV). Contemporary use is minimal and the evidence base is largely older pharmacology.
02 Mechanism
Indirect dopaminergic stimulant that inhibits dopamine reuptake and, at higher doses, promotes release, without strong monoamine-oxidase or direct receptor activity.
03 Dosing
| Tier | Dose | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Historical | 10–20 mg/day | Oral | Typical historical adult dose, morning. |
| Historical common | 20–60 mg/day | Oral | Divided doses; upper range in older regimens. |
04 Effects
| Effect | Magnitude | Evidence | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Increased energy / moodReduced fatigue and improved drive in convalescent and asthenic states. | n/a | Observational | |
| Mild appetite effectHistorically used as an appetite stimulant in combination products, unlike anorectic amphetamines. | n/a | Observational |
05 Side effects
| Effect | Severity | Frequency | Evidence | Countermeasures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Insomnia / restlessnessDifficulty sleeping and nervousness. | Mild | Common | Observational | |
| Cardiovascular stimulationPalpitations and raised blood pressure at higher doses. | Moderate | Uncommon | Observational | |
| DependencePsychological dependence with misuse. | Moderate | Uncommon | Observational |