What is reductil used (Meridia)?
reductil used (Meridia) is an oral prescription medication used for the medical management of obesity, including weight loss and the maintenance of weight loss. reductil used (Meridia) can only be prescribed by a medical doctor.
reductil used (Meridia) comes in three different strength capsules (5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg). The recommended initial starting dose of reductil used (Meridia) is one 10 mg capsule per day. Your doctor will determine the starting dose that is best for you.
How does reductil used (Meridia) work?
reductil used (Meridia) works by affecting appetite control centers in the brain.
In medical studies in overweight people, reductil used (Meridia), along with a reduced calorie diet, produced significant reductions in body weight.
reductil used (Meridia) should be used as part of a comprehensive weight loss program supervised by your doctor, that includes a reduced calorie diet and appropriate physical activity.
How long does it take for reductil used (Meridia) to work?
Every person will respond differently to reductil used (Meridia) when used as part of a comprehensive weight loss program. You may be able to lose 4 or more pounds of body weight in the first month you take reductil used (Meridia). If you find that you do not lose at least 4 pounds during the first month, you should notify your doctor so he or she can re-evaluate your situation. Your doctor may wish to change your dose of reductil used (Meridia).
Most people who lose weight on reductil used (Meridia) lose it in the first 6 months of treatment. Scientific studies that lasted one year have shown that many people who lost weight and remained on reductil used (Meridia) therapy maintained their weight loss.
Who should take reductil used (Meridia)?
A weight loss program that includes a reduced calorie diet and appropriate physical activity may be adequate in some patients. You should discuss with your doctor whether reductil used (Meridia) should be added to such a program.
reductil used (Meridia) is 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 medical 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.
How and when should I take reductil used (Meridia)?
Follow your doctor's instructions on how and when to take reductil used (Meridia).
Your doctor will recommend that you take one (1) reductil used (Meridia) capsule a day.
You can take reductil used (Meridia) on an empty stomach or after a meal.
What if I miss a dose?
If you forget to take a dose of reductil used (Meridia), do not take an extra capsule to "make up" for the dose you forgot.
How long should I take reductil used (Meridia)?
Your doctor will determine how long you should take reductil used (Meridia). Follow your doctor's advice. The safety and effectiveness of reductil used (Meridia) have not been determined beyond one (1) year at this time.
Who should not take reductil used (Meridia)?
reductil used (Meridia) should not be taken by people who:
1. HAVE UNCONTROLLED OR POORLY CONTROLLED HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE BECAUSE reductil used (Meridia) SUBSTANTIALLY INCREASES BLOOD PRESSURE IN SOME PATIENTS.
2. Are taking prescription medicines called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) for depression, Parkinson's disease, or any other disorder (for example: Eldepryl®, Parnate®, Nardil®).
3. Are taking other weight loss medications that act on the brain (for example: phentermine). This includes prescription and over-the-counter medications and herbal products.
4. Have had prior allergic reactions to reductil used (Meridia) or sibutramine.
5. Have a diagnosis of coronary artery disease and/or who have angina pectoris (heart-related chest pain).
6. Have arrhythmias (irregular heart beats).
7. Have had a prior heart attack.
8. Have a diagnosis of congestive heart failure.
9. Have severe liver or kidney disease.
10. Have had a stroke or symptoms of a stroke (transient ischemic attacks [TIAs]).
11. Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
12. Are breast-feeding their infants.
13. Are suffering from anorexia nervosa.
14. Are taking prescription medications for depression.
15. Have had seizures (epilepsy or convulsions).
16. Have an eye disorder called narrow angle glaucoma.
17. Are under 16 years of age.
18. Are taking other medications that regulate the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain (for example: Prozac®, Zoloft®, Effexor®, Luvox®, or Paxil®).
IMPORTANT: It is very important that you make sure that your primary care doctor
and all your other health care providers know what medications you take and
what medical conditions and allergies you have.