Ingredients and Mechanism of Action
The active ingredient in Meridia is known as sibutramine. It works by raising the chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, therefore creating a signal of fullness from the brain. However, it only addresses one cause of obesity: overeating. If you eat the wrong kinds of food, don’t exercise, etc. Meridia will do nothing for you. It will not raise your metabolism, it will not burn excess fat calories, etc.
Safety
Meridia/Reductil is not safe to take if:
- You have taken a MAOI inhibitor
- You have anorexia nervosa
- You are taking an appetite suppressant
- You have high blood pressure
- You have heart disease, irregular heart beats, congestive heart failure, or a history of stroke
- You have epilepsy or seizur disorder
- You have liver disease
- You have kidney disease
Possible Side Effects
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Anorexia nervosa
- Constipation
- Insomnia
- Increased sweating
- Increased blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
Overall Impression of Meridia/Reductil:
Meridia is meant to be combined with a strict diet and exercise plan under the supervision of a licensed physician. It can cause some serious side effects, and it is not meant to be anything more than an appetite suppressant. In other words, it is definitely not a quick fix of any type.