A culture of convenient foods and sedentary lifestyles has made obesity a growing problem in America. In order to combat the increasing prevalence of excessive weight gain, many have turned to the use of prescription medications. Meridia is a drug that can help obese patients lose weight by altering the rate of metabolism. However, caution should be used when taking this drug, since it can also produce serious, unwanted adverse effects.
Obesity
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention defines obesity as a body mass index of 30 or greater. According to the CDC, in 2009, 49 states reported that 20 percent or more of their residents were obese -- only Colorado and the District of Columbia had obesity rates under 20%. Obesity is a major risk factor for the development of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and other metabolic disorders. The growing rate of obesity has been attributed to poor dietary choices, excessive portions and sedentary lifestyles.
Meridia
Manufactured and marketed under the brand name Meridia by Abbot Laboratories, sibutramine is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of obesity in individuals with a body mass index of 30 or more. Sibutramine works by increasing the availability of neurotransmitters including serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine in the body. A typical dose may range between 5 to 15 mg, taken once a day.
Sibutramine and Metabolism
According to a 2005 article examining the effects of sibutramine and published in "Diabetes Care," R. Vettor, M.D. and colleagues reported that sibutramine works in the central nervous system to increase energy use and suppress appetite. Sibutramine also exerts a stimulatory effect on other organ systems that increases activity. As a result of increased activity and energy use, patients taking sibutramine may experience an elevated metabolic rate. Unfortunately, excess stimulatory effects can lead to severe adverse effects including arrythmia, seizures, and mood disorders.
Other Beneficial Effects
In addition to increased activity and metabolic rate, sibutramine has been shown to have other positive health effects. According to Dr. Vettor and colleagues, sibutramine may have a desirable effect on glucose metabolism and cholesterol profiles. High blood sugar and high cholesterol are often associated with obesity. Patients should speak with a physician about their concerns regarding obesity and the use of Meridia.
References
- Abbot: Meridia Product Package Insert
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention: Overweight and Obesity
- "Diabetes Care"; Effect of Sibutramine on Weight Management and Metabolic Control in Type 2 Diabetes; R . Vettor M.D. et al.; April 2005
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