Generic Meridia (Sibutramine)

Meridia information

Meridia is a weight-loss aid recommended for overweight people with an initial body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or for overweight people with a BMI of 27 or higher if they have additional risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. Your doctor can determine your BMI and will decide if you meet these criteria.

Meridia - Side Effects

Side effects of Meridia may include dry mouth, drowsiness, constipation and difficulty sleeping may occur. If the side effects persist or become bothersome, consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Meridia - Warnings

Do not share this medication with others. Mediria should only be used by prescription and in conjunction with a professionally controlled diet. Your doctor may conduct various tests to monitor side effects. Tell your doctor your medical history before using Meridia, including any allergies you have had , liver or kidney disease, high blood pressure, heart disease, history of stroke or seizures, eating disorders, glaucoma, or gallstones. Limit your alcohol use when taking Meridia, as it may increase the side effects of the drug. Meridia is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor about birth-control methods. Meridia should not be used by breastfeeding women, because of potential risks to the baby. The elderly may be more vulnerable to the side effects of the drug. Use cautiously. The FDA approved the use of Meridia against the wishes of its advisory committee, that actually voted against its approval by a 5 to 4 vote. The committee was concerned that the health risks associated with the use of Meridia outweighed the potential benefits to obese patients. From its entry to the market in February of 1998 to September 2001, there have been 397 adverse reactions reported to the FDA, including 152 hospitalizations, and 29 deaths.

Meridia - Proper Storage

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Meridia - Proper Usage

Meridia should be taken by mouth in exact accordance with the doctor's directions. This will usually mean once daily. You can take Meridia on an empty stomach or after a meal. Meridia may take 4-6 weeks to take effect. Do not take Meridia more often or in larger doses than you were prescribed. Do not use Meridia for longer than it was prescribed for you, since it can be habit-forming. Do not stop taking Meridia suddenly after you have been using it for a significant length of time, unless your doctor directs you to do so. Meridia may become less effective over time. Consult your doctor if you have been using Meridia for a while and your weight begins to increase.

Meridia - Missed Dosge

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; but if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next one according to the regular schedule. Never take a double dose.

Meridia - Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor about all the drugs you are using, whether prescription or non-prescription, especially other weight-loss drugs and drugs that can raise blood pressure (such as decongestants like pseudoephedrine and phenylpropanolamine). Tell the doctor if you are using cough medicine, antidepressants (nefazodone, fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline, fluvoxamine, venlafaxine), lithium, psychiatric medications (e.g., MAO Inhibitors such as selegiline, moclobemide, furazolidone, phenelzine, tranylcypromine), drugs for migraines (e.g., dihydroergotamine, sumatriptan), tryptophan, certain narcotic pain relievers (e.g., meperidine, pentazocine, fentanyl), ketoconazole, erythromycin, medicine for high blood pressure, or any drugs which can cause drowsiness, including certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine), sedatives and anti-seizure drugs. Antihistamines and decongestants may be found in many nonprescription drugs for cough and cold. If you are in doubt, consult your pharmacist. MAO Inhibitors and Meridia should not be taken together or within two weeks of each other.