This drug is designed for people who have serious problems with weight control and not for those trying to lose weight with cosmetic purpose. This medication is only for certain people and in helping them lose weight it focuses primarily on health benefits. The result of taking this drug is related more to how it will improve the condition of your health, and less to how it will make you look. As a rule of thumb for health practitioners, this medication is prescribed to patients who are considered obese and whose starting Body Mass Index (BMI) is 30 and higher, or a BMI equal to 27 in conjunction with other factors of risk such as hypertension, diabetes, sleep apnea, or arthritis.

What is BMI?

Body Mass Index is an index that relates your weight and height determining the amount of body fat. For instance, a person with a BMI equal to 27 has approximately 20% of excess weight. BMI is widely used to establish the level of risk a person has developed to certain health conditions due to their weight. The higher your BMI, the higher is the level of risk you face in developing health problems.

This medication is also for people who are already putting considerable effort in losing weight using diets and exercising but are having difficulties in keeping themselves motivated and focused on a weight loss program. Meridia addresses this problem by making it easier for someone who wants to lose weight to comply with a new and improved lifestyle.

Possible Side Effects

You should be aware of the fact that your doctor prescribed this medication to you because he/she had reasoned that its overall benefits to you are greater than the overall risk of side effects. Most people taking this medication do not experience any side effects.

Before taking this medication please be aware of the several side effects it may cause. You may feel some nausea, increased appetite, dry mouth, strange taste in your mouth, constipation or upset stomach, drowsiness, dizziness, sleep problems, menstrual pain, flushing, headache, muscle/joint pain. If you have any of these symptoms, if they are persisting or get worse please see your pharmacist or doctor as soon as possible.

You should notify your doctor promptly if any of the following serious side effects occur: fast, irregular or pounding heartbeat; tingling or numbness in your hands or feet; mood changes (confusion, excitement, depression or restlessness); changes in the color or amount of urine; black stools; vomit that looks similar to coffee grounds; unusual or easy bleeding or bruising; yellowish color of your eyes or skin; fever with no reason, unusual sweating or shaking; swelling of the legs or arms; chest pain; seizure; vision changes; weakness on only one side of your body; hard breathing.

Sibutramine, the active component of Meridia, can very rarely lead to a condition known as serotonin syndrome. It may appear if you use this drug in conjunction with triptans (medication for headaches and/or antidepressants). If you do take such medication please notify your doctor about it.

A serious allergic reaction to Meridia is unlikely but do consult your doctor about the possible allergies you may have to any of this drug's components. If an allergic reaction occurs please seek immediate medical attention.