Sibutramine: Appetite Suppressant

Generic Sibutramine (brand name Meridia), manufactured by Knoll Pharmaceutical (Abbott Laboratories) orally administered medication (capsules) to treat obesity, used in conjunction with reduced calorie diet (known as an appetite suppressant). Also, helped to keep the weight loss from returning, especially those with high blood pressure or high cholesterol. The medication works by reducing activity of chemicals, called serotonin (by 73%), norepinephrine (by 54%) and dopamine (by 16%) or messengers in the brain. By blocking these chemicals or known as neurotransmitters, will treat obesity. Sibutramine may achieve a five to ten percent reduction in weight. Results are seen four to six weeks after starting treatment.

In November 1997, the Food and Drug and Drug Administration approved the sale and distribution of Sibutramine. Prescribed for patients initial body mass index (BMI - Statistical measure of the weight of a person scaled according to height. BMI of less than 20: Underweight. Over 25 BM: Overweight, and over 30: Obese) at least 30 or 5' 06" and weights 185 pounds or more (Or Weight - loss aid for people 16 years or older). During clinical trials, sibutramine had shown weight loss during the first six months of treatment and weight loss was maintained for one year. However, contrary to FDA approval of this drug, the advisory committee to the FDA voted against its approval by a five to four vote. There concern was based upon the health risks associated with the use of Sibutramine (Meridia) for the treatment of obesity, despite future benefits. Between, February 1998 until September 2001, reported to the FDA 397 adverse reactions, including 152 hospitalizations, and 29 deaths.