Meridia
FDA Issues Meridia Warning
Meridia (sibutramine hydrochloride monohydrate) is a prescription weight-loss medication used in conjunction with a low-calorie diet. It works by increasing levels of the neurotransmitters norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin. Meridia makes your stomach feel full and keeps you from over eating. It is prescribed for patients who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater who are obese, diabetic or have high cholesterol problems. There is a now in effect.
Abbott Laboratories, the manufacturer of Meridia, has decided to issue a Meridia recall for this prescription diet drug in the U.S., Canada and Australia due to pressure from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The Italian government banned the use of Meridia and issued a Meridia warning some time ago.
Clinical studies on Meridia indicate that there is an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. In fact, these studies demonstrate that there is an eleven percent increase in the risk of heart attack and stroke while doing very little for weight loss. Over all, patients demonstrated a sixteen percent increase in adverse cardiovascular side effects. The FDA has also reported 17 deaths associated with Meridia so far.
Meridia (sibutamine) has also been reported to be found in an over-the-counter dietary supplement known as Slimming Beauty sold by Beautiful Health, Inc. This dietary supplement has been reported to cause sleeplessness, vomiting and erratic blood pressure which is the reason for the Meridia recall.
Many individuals are concerned with their weight today. So much so, consumers look for a quick fix with pills. Although there are dietary supplements that are safe and effective, many have a number of dangerous side effects. Make sure you do your homework and check with your healthcare provider before you make a decision. There is no quick fix.
Meridia Side Effects
Meridia has a number of adverse side effects beyond heart attack and stroke which includes:
- shortness of breath
- cramping
- kidney dysfunction
- seizures
- sore throat
- back pain
- dizziness
- headaches
- dry mouth
- flu-like symptoms
- sleeplessness
- indigestion
- bronchitis
- joint pain
- muscle weakness
- rashes
Abbott Laboratories has been accused of withholding important risk information from consumers. If you have experienced cardiovascular complications, stroke or any of the above adverse side affects you should see your healthcare provider as soon as possible for a check up. Given the Meridia recall, you will need to talk with your physician about alternative methods of weight control. Make sure you do your homework on alternatives so that you can ask intelligent questions when you have your next office visit.
You May be entitled to Compensation, so act now.
If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of taking Meridia or want to find out more about the Merida recall contact us now to speak with our qualified professionals about possible compensation. Call us now at 877-222-7069 or use the contact form for a free case review.
