Sibutramine is a medicine that may help obese people, as determined by their doctor, lose weight and keep weight off. Sibutramine may help with weight loss because it affects areas of the brain that control hunger. You should use sibutramine with a low calorie diet.

The use of sibutramine for more than 2 years has not been studied.

Sibutramine has not been studied in children under 16 years of age.

What are the possible side effects of Meridia?

Common side effects of Meridia include: dry mouth, headache, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, and constipation.
The following serious side effects have been reported with Meridia:

• a large increase in blood pressure or heart rate in some people. See "What is the most important information I should know about Meridia"
• seizures
• bleeding
• a rare, but life-threatening problem called "serotonin syndrome." It may occur when people take drugs that affect a brain chemical called serotonin along with Meridia.Do not take other medicines with Meridia unless your doctor has told you it is okay to do so. Get medical help right away if you have any of the following symptoms especially when taking other medicines with Meridia:
• feel weak, restless, confused, or anxious
• lose consciousness
• have a fever, vomiting, sweating, shivering or shaking
• have a fast heartbeat

Certain weight loss medicines have been associated with a rare, but life-threatening condition that affects the blood pressure in lungs (pulmonary hypertension). Because the condition is so rare it is not known if Meridia may cause this disease. If you experience new or worsening shortness of breath notify your doctor immediately.

Tell your doctor if you get a rash or hives while taking Meridia. You may be having an allergic reaction.

Tell your doctor if you get effects that bother you or that do not go away.

These are not all the side effects of Meridia. For more information, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Meridia is a controlled substance (CIV).This means that Meridia can be a target for people who abuse prescription medicines. Keep your Meridia in a safe place.

Selling or giving away Meridia is against the law.