Meridia is a powerful prescription drug which can have a modest weight loss effect, though there are some strong potential side effects. Meridia (Reductil in Europe), is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor which acts directly on the appetite control centre in the brain. Meridia, or more specifically its main ingredient, Sibutramine, stops the neurotransmitters serotonin and noradrenaline from being reabsorbed after they've been released in the brain. This creates a feeling of satiety even when he or she has had little to eat. Many people think of it as an appetite suppressant, but it actually just tells your stomach that you're full. As a result Meridia is helpful for people who have a hard time controlling their cravings and keeping to small portion sizes. Meridia is only supposed to be prescribed to people with a BMI of 30 or above with a documented history of problems reducing their weight using traditional weight loss techniques.
Meridia should be used in conjunction with a low calorie diet, and under a doctor's advice (it is one of only two prescription weight loss drugs commonly available, the other being Xenical). Likewise, there is a long list of conditions and medications which rule out safe Meridia use, so again, get medical advice. You take one capsule per day and should start losing weight within a month. Meridia is intended to be taken for no longer than one year.
Sibutramine has been extensively studied in more than 100 clinical trials involving over 12,000 patients. Over 14 million people have used the product for obesity treatment since its approval in 1997. In one 12-month study , average weight loss for those taking Meridia for one year (the maximum advised time on the drug), was 10 pounds. Given the limited weight loss potential, possibility of potent side effects, and considerable price, we'd regard Meridia as a last resort.
Ill Effects: The most common side effects are dry mouth, loss of appetite, insomnia, constipation, and headaches. Less common side effects include include fever, diarrhea, flatulence, dental problems, increased or decreased libido, tremors, hair loss, inflammation of the stomach, seizures, swelling, arthritis, agitation, leg cramps, depression, suicidal thoughts, confused thought processes, troubled dreams, nasal congestion, bronchitis, difficulty breathing, itchy skin, high or low blood pressure, loss of vision in one eye, and menstrual irregularities.
If you have a history of drug abuse, you may be monitored by your physician for signs of misuse of Meridia, such as development of tolerance or increasing of doses. In November 2009, the FDA announced it was investigating Sibutramine after preliminary studies indicated users may suffer a higher risk of heart attacks, stroke, and death.
Prices: As Meridia is a prescription medication and illegal to purchase over the counter or over the internet, we don't provide purchase links or prices. However, purely for price comparison, it costs for around $108 for a one-month's supply.
Top Diet Pills