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.
Directions on how to take
Take this medicine in the morning unless otherwise directed by your doctor. This medicine may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. 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.
Warnings and Precautions
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.
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.
Storage
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.
Additional information
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.
Disclaimer
The drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.