Description
Tesofensine acts as a powerful triple monoamine reuptake inhibitor used off-label for significant weight loss. It works by increasing levels of the neurotransmitters norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin in the brain to suppress appetite and increase resting energy expenditure.
Key Details
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- Mechanism of Action: Tesofensine increases levels of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in the hypothalamus, the brain region that regulates hunger and satiety. This action helps reduce food intake and enhances the feeling of fullness.
- Primary Use: Although originally studied for neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, clinical trials revealed a significant weight-loss effect, leading to its repurposing as a treatment for obesity.
- Efficacy: Clinical trials have shown that patients on a 0.5 mg daily dose of tesofensine experienced significant weight loss (an average of 7.2% to 11.2% body weight reduction) over several months, which is reportedly more effective than some older approved obesity drugs.




