ORAL SIBUTRAMINE
Common Brand Name(s): Meridia
Intended Use: Meridia is to be used in conjunction with a proven diet plan to help you meet your weight loss goals.
Using Meridia: Meridia is designed to be taken orally, usually once per day, as directed by your physician. It may take 4-6 weeks to achieve the maximum results. You should not increase your dose or use Meridia longer than prescribed, as Meridia can be habit-forming. When taking Meridia for an extended period of time, you should not suddenly stop using it without approval from your physician. Meridia’s effectiveness may decrease over time. If you weight increases while using Meridia, consult your physician.
Potential Meridia Side Effects: Potential side effects of Meridia may include: headaches, constipation, drowsiness, dry mouth, or sleeping difficulties. Consult your physician if side effects persist or become worse. Immediately consult your physician if your experience the following: back pain, increase in appetite, mood swings, dizziness, arthritis, stomach pains, mood changes, sore throat (persistent), or congested sinuses. The following side effects are unlikely but you should consult your physician promptly if they occur: fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, unquenchable thirst, swelling in the arms or legs, weakness or pain in muscles, cramps in legs, changes in vision, sweating, weakness on one side of body, or painful menstruation. The following side effects are very unlikely but you should consult your physician immediately if they occur: painful urination, bruising, seizures, changes in urine (amount, color frequency, pain), yellow coloration in the eyes or skin. Seek medical attention immediately in the highly unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to Meridia. An allergic reaction would carry the following symptoms: difficulty breathing, swelling, itching, or rash. Consult your physician if you experience side effects that are not listed here.
Meridia Precautions: Inform your physician of your medical history prior to taking Meridia, especially if any of the following conditions exist: glaucoma, over-active thyroid, high blood pressure, diabetes, or emotional problems. Meridia can be habit forming; use it with caution. Dizziness can increase if alcohol is consumed, so limit your use of alcohol. Meridia is not recommended for children. For further information, contact your physician. During pregnancy, Meridia should only be taken when needed. Consult your physician for more information about the benefits and risks. Because Meridia may be excreted in breast milk, it may be necessary to stop using Meridia or stop nursing. Before breast-feeding, inform your physician.
Potential Meridia Interactions: Your physician should be given a comprehensive list of the prescription and non-prescription medication you are using. It is especially important to tell your doctor if you are taking: MAO inhibitors, high blood pressure medication, or additional medication for weight loss. Decongestants, drugs, or other stimulants that potentially increase heart rate should be avoided. Receive approval from your physician or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medication.
In Case of Overdose: If you believe you have overdosed on Meridia, immediately contact a local emergency room or poison control office. Symptoms potentially associated with an overdose: diarrhea/ nausea/vomiting, stomach pains, unconsciousness, chest pains, weakness in muscles, dizziness, fever, restlessness, irregularly slow or fast heart beat, rapid breathing, drowsiness, paranoia or panic, confusion, headaches, agitation, enlarged pupils, delusions, sweating, flushing or paleness, convulsions, or hallucinations.
Notes About Meridia: Meridia should not be shared with others. Use Meridia in conjunction with your reduced calorie diet. Monitoring of side effects can occur through laboratory tests as well as pulse and blood pressure measurements.
In Case You Miss a Dose: If you have missed a dose of Meridia, you should not double your next dose. Simply skip the dose you missed and then continue with your regular scheduled doses.
Storing Meridia: Meridia should be kept away from moisture and sunlight. Store Meridia at room temperature. Meridia should not be store d in your bathroom.
Important Note: This information is designed to supplement, not substitute, the expertise and judgment of your doctor, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. Consult your healthcare professional before using Meridia.