Learn the Facts about Meridia

The weight loss medication Meridia is also known as sibutramine hydrochloride monohydrate. It is called Reductil when referred to outside of the United States and North America. Because weight loss is affected by brain chemistry, Meridia is unique in that it has equal effects on the neurotransmitter in the brain called serotonin. This is the chemical that gives one the feeling of well being. It also has a chemical norepinephrine that is a stimulant therefore inhibits your appetite. The studies regarding Meridia have shown that it is moderately effective on obese individuals for losing weight.

Can those People with High Blood Pressure Take Meridia?

If you are someone that has been diagnosed with hypertension and are on preventive medication it may be that you will be able to use Meridia as an aid in weight loss. When you begin a treatment using Meridia and have a history of high blood pressure, it is important that your health care provider monitor you carefully, especially at the beginning of treatment to ensure that it has no ill effect on your blood pressure.

How Long is Meridia Typically Taken?

Those obese individuals that decide upon a treatment plan that includes Meridia will often have to take the medication for an indefinite period of time. Some patients will be able to take Meridia intermittently while others will have to take the medication on a continuous basis. Other patients have been able to turn to other medications once their weight loss goals have been reached. Because obesity can be considered a condition that is chronic, continued maintenance for weight control in those individuals can expect to be on Meridia for the long term. Studies have shown that obese individuals that have stopped taking the medication have rapidly regained the weight they lost when on Meridia.

What are some of the Side Effects Associated with Meridia 

Some patients have reported that while taking Meridia they have experienced restlessness, difficulty concentrating or focusing and dizziness. Activities that may be hazardous should be avoided until you know how Meridia will affect you. Before you take any other types of medications and over the counter remedies, speak with a health care professional. This is especially important when considering taking decongestants, cough suppressants and some antidepressants.

Who should Not Take Meridia

Those with conditions such as kidney or liver disease, glaucoma, a history of stroke, heart disease, congestive heart failure or an irregular heartbeat should speak with their primary physician before taking Meridia. If you have a seizure disorder such as epilepsy or have had a history of gallstones you should also proceed with caution and speak with a health care provider before beginning a regimen of Meridia. If you are pregnant or expect to become pregnant, you should not take this medication without first speaking to your doctor. Nursing mothers should use caution when taking this product as it is unknown if Meridia passes into breast milk and can put your child in danger. Children under sixteen should not take Meridia as no studies have been done to ensure its safety.