The Sibutramine is a drug that is used to treat ‘ obesity .
How does Sibutramine work?
Sibutramine reduces hunger and food cravings as it acts by regulating certain molecules in the brain.
How is Sibutramine administered?
Sibutramine is administered orally , on an empty stomach at least one hour before or two hours after a meal. The tablets are taken with a large glass of water.
Sibutramine side effects
Sibutramine can increase the risk of serotonergic syndrome and neuroleptic malignant syndrome . It can also increase the risk of stroke , heart attack and other cardiovascular problems .
Among the possible side effects of Sibutramine there are:
- backache
- constipation
- dizziness
- dry mouth
- insomnia
- sore throat
- stomach discomfort
- weakness
- flu-like symptoms
- changes in appetite
- articolar pains
- nausea
- nervousness
- painful menstruation
- a runny nose
A doctor should be contacted without hesitation in case the intake of the drug gives rise to:
- rash
- urticaria
- itch
- breathing difficulties
- feeling of tightness in the chest
- swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue
- unusual hoarseness
- agitation
- anxiety
- swollen feet, ankles or legs
- bruising or bleeding
- He retched
- vision problems
- changes in the amount of urine produced
- chest, left arm or jaw pain
- clumsiness
- confusion
- disorientation
- excitement
- eye pain
- fainting
- fast or irregular heart beat
- high fever
- increased sweating
- dilated pupils
- changes in mood or behavior
- numbness of an arm or leg
- weakness on one side of the body
- restlessness
- convulsions
- severe or persistent dizziness
- persistent headache or weakness
- chills
- shortness of breath
- stomach ache
Contraindications and warnings on the use of Sibutramine
The Sibutramine should not be administered to patients who have previously suffered from eating disorders, high blood pressure , increased blood pressure in the lungs, cardiovascular disease, stroke or transient ischemic attack, kidney or liver problems, dialysis and older than 65 years. Furthermore, it should not be taken with other appetite suppressants, in case of treatment with SSRIs or taking MAO inhibitors in the previous 14 days.
Before starting Sibutramine therapy it would be advisable to notify your doctor:
- of any allergies to the active substance, to its excipients, to any other drug, to foods or other substances;
- of medicines, phytotherapy and supplements taken , in particular Dextromethorphan, Dihydroergotamine, imidazole antifungals, Lithium, MAO inhibitors, narcotics, Pentazocine, 5-HT1 serotonin receptor agonists, SSRIs, Tryptophan, Ephedrine, Pseudoephedrine, Anticoagulants.
- if you have suffered or still suffer from kidney, liver or heart problems, high blood pressure, bleeding disorders, narrow-angle glaucoma, gallbladder problems, hypothyroidism , convulsions, mood or behavior disorders;
- if you have suicidal tendencies ;
- if you are pregnant or breastfeeding .
Sibutramine should be taken within a low-calorie diet .
Sibutramine can impair your ability to drive or operate dangerous machinery . Taking alcohol or certain medicines can intensify this adverse effect.
