Generic Meridia (SIBUTRAMINE HCI) is a prescription medication that's used to help people lose weight by acting on the appetite control centers in the brain. Studies have shown that using Meridia helps patients lose weight and maintain weight loss for up to 2 years.

Common uses

This medicine is a diet aid used with a reduced calorie diet to promote and maintain weight loss.

Before using

Do not take this medicine if you are also taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), or medicine for depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder (SSRI). Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. Use of this medicine is not recommended if you have a history of eating disorders, pulmonary hypertension, irregular heartbeat, atherosclerosis, heart conditions, or stroke.

Directions

Take this medicine in the morning unless otherwise directed by your doctor. This medicine may be taken on an empty stomach or with food.

Store this medicine at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees f (15 and 30 degrees c) in a tightly-closed container, away from heat, moisture, and light. If you miss a dose of this medicine, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

Do not exceed the recommended dose without checking with your doctor. This medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other depressants. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines are depressants. If this medicine causes trouble sleeping, ask your doctor or pharmacist about the best time to take it.

For women: use an effective method of birth control while you are taking this medicine. If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. It is unknown if this medicine is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine.

Possible side effects

Side effects that may occur while taking this medicine include headache, back pain, constipation, increased appetite, nausea, dry mouth, trouble sleeping, or dizziness. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience rash, hives, seizures, worsening of vision or vision changes, decreased amount of urine, or unusual bruising or bleeding. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience the following side effects or symptoms of toxicity: excitement; restlessness; loss of consciousness; confusion; agitation; weakness; shivering; clumsiness or unsteadiness; fast or irregular heartbeat; large, unchanging pupils; vomiting; one-sided weakness, trouble breathing; shortness of breath; chest pain; swelling of feet, ankles, or legs; fainting; disorientation; depression; stomach pain; high fever; eye pain; tremor; or increased sweating. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Additional information

Changes in dietary habits as well as an increase in exercise are important parts of a successful weight loss program. To maintain your ideal weight, these changes should be continued for a lifetime. Follow the guidelines given to you by your doctor or diet counselor.

Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.