Approved by the U.S. FDA in 1997, Meridia^® (sibutramine) is thought to decrease your appetiite by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain.

By doing this, Meridia helps increase the levels of these hormones that control appetite and hunger. It was the first selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) to be used specifically for weight loss, although other drugs in the same class (Prozac, Paxil) have been used as anti-depressants.

Sibutramine (which is marketed as Reductil in Europe) is indicated for obese patients with a body mass index of 30 or more, or for patients with a BMI of 27 or more who also have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.

The drug causes a small increase in average blood pressure, and causes a higher increase in some patients.