Composition
Each capsule contains :
Sibutramine hydrochloride monohydrate 10 mg- 15 mg
Indications
Sibutramine helps the seriously overweight shed pounds and keep them off. It is especially recommended for obese patients with an initial body mass index (BMI) >/= 30 Kg/m2 , or >/= 27 Kg/ m2 in the presence of other risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. It is used in conjunction with a low-calorie diet.
It works by inhibiting the re-uptake of certain chemical messengers in the nervous system, including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine
Side Effects
More common side effects may include: Dry mouth, flu symptoms, headache, insomnia, anorexia,constipation. Side effects are transient and don't require to stop the drug.
Contraindications
This drug is contraindicated if you are hypersensitive to sibutramine or you are receiving MAO inhibitors within the 2 weeks of taking this drug, or you have anorexia nervosa, or you are taking other centrally acting appetite suppressant drugs, or your obesity is caused by organic disfunction. Avoid it completely if you've had a stroke or suffer from heart disease, heart failure, or irregular heartbeat or glaucoma or thyroid problems. Also avoid it if you have severe kidney or liver problems; the drug has not been tested under these conditions.
Warning
This drug can increase your blood pressure, so it's important to have your blood pressure and pulse monitored by your doctor at the beginning of therapy and regularly thereafter.
But if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure use this drug with caution; it could make the problem worse. If you've had seizures in the past, use the drug with caution. If you are prone to gallstones, be aware that weight loss can cause more of them to form. The drug has not been tested in people under 18 years and over 65 years ;it should be used with caution in these ages.
Interactions
Remember that this drug must never be taken within 2 weeks of using a MAO inhibitor. The combination could lead to serious, even fatal, overstimulation. It may also interact with a wide variety of other prescription and over-the- counter drugs, especially weight-reducing agents, decongestants, antidepressants, allergy medications, and cough suppressants that contain ephedrine, phenylpropanolamine, or pseudoephedrine.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
The use of this drug during pregnancy is not recommended. If you are in your child-bearing years, take reliable contraceptive measures while using this drug. If you do become pregnant, or plan on becoming pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. It is not known whether it appears in breast milk; its use while breastfeeding is not recommended.
Recommended dosage
Sibutramine can be taken with or without food.
Overdosage
Although doctors have had little experience with overdoses of the drug, increased heart rate and blood pressure are possible results. Since any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences, seek medical attention immediately if you suspect an overdose.
Storage Instructions
Store below 25oC away from heat and moisture.
Adults
The starting dose is 10 milligrams once daily with a glass of water. If you have not loose at least 2 Kg after 4 weeks, the doctor may increase the dose to 15 milligrams dailyas a maximum dose. If weight loss still fails to appear, the drug is to be discontinued.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Presntation
Pack of 20 capsules.