The excessively obese person, defined as one with a body mass index of 30 kg per square meter or above, already needs the weight loss advice of a qualified medical practitioner. Among the prescription drugs designed for obesity is Meridia, a product of the American firm, Knoll Pharmaceutical.
As a chemical compound, the Meridian weight loss pill is called sibutramine hydrochloride monohydrate. This patented chemical formulation acts as an inhibitor in an individual’s central nervous system, specifically preventing the re-uptake of the serotonin and dopamine chemicals in the brain. By inhibiting these brain chemicals, a person’s feeling of hunger is suppressed which lead to less food intake and eventually to weight loss.
The Meridian weight loss pill, however, is usually only a short-term solution. In particular, Meridia fits those obese individuals who want to dramatically lose weight immediately in order to pursue more permanent solutions, such as regular physical exercise and strict dieting programs. This pill is administered orally in dosages of from 5 to 10 mg, depending on the physician’s prescription.
Typical side-effects associated with the Meridian weight loss pill include diarrhea, change in taste perception, insomnia and dizziness but these adverse reactions may diminish or vanish altogether with the body adjusting to the drug. Also, it would be ill-advised to take Meridia with other appetite-loss pills and medicine for asthma, allergy or cough without consultation with a doctor. Taking this pill may also hinder a person’s ability to perform functions requiring mental concentration as it induces light-headedness or dizziness to a person.