Description
Generic Name: Sibutramine Hydrochloride
Brand Name: Reductil
Strength: 10 mg per capsule
Formulation: Capsule
Manufacturer: Abbott Laboratories
⚙️ Mechanism of Action
Reductil is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. This action enhances satiety, leading to reduced food intake and, consequently, weight loss.
🧪 Indications
Reductil is prescribed for:
- Obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²)
- Overweight individuals (BMI ≥27 kg/m²) with associated risk factors such as type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, or controlled hypertension
It is used in conjunction with a calorie-reduced diet and increased physical activity.
💊 Dosage and Administration
- Initial Dose: One 10 mg capsule once daily, taken in the morning, with or without food.
- Adjustment: If weight loss is insufficient after 4–6 weeks, the dose may be increased to 15 mg daily, as directed by a healthcare provider.
- Maximum Dose: 15 mg per day.
- Duration: Treatment duration varies; typically, it is used for at least six months and up to two years, depending on individual response and tolerability.
⚠️ Precautions and Contraindications
Contraindicated in individuals with:
- Cardiovascular diseases (e.g., coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, arrhythmias)
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Severe liver or kidney impairment
- Eating disorders (e.g., anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa)
- Glaucoma
- History of stroke or transient ischemic attacks
- Use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the past 14 days
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Use with caution in individuals with:
- History of seizures
- Psychiatric disorders
- History of substance abuse
- Increased intraocular pressure
- Prostate enlargement with urinary retention
⚠️ Side Effects
Common side effects may include:
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Increased blood pressure and heart rate
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Serious side effects (seek immediate medical attention):
- Chest pain or palpitations
- Severe headache or blurred vision
- Seizures
- Hallucinations or agitation
- Unexplained bruising or bleeding
- Signs of stroke (e.g., sudden numbness, confusion, difficulty speaking)
📉 Discontinuation and Withdrawal
Sudden discontinuation of Reductil is not recommended. A healthcare provider should guide the tapering process to minimize withdrawal symptoms and monitor for potential side effects.
⚠️ Regulatory Status
As of October 2010, Reductil (sibutramine) has been withdrawn from the market in several countries, including the European Union, New Zealand, and Hong Kong, due to concerns over increased cardiovascular risks. The decision was based on findings from the Sibutramine Cardiovascular OUTcomes (SCOUT) study, which indicated a higher rate of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke in obese and overweight patients using sibutramine compared to those managing their weight through diet and exercise alone.
🛑 Important Note
Given the withdrawal of Reductil from the market in multiple countries, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for alternative weight management options.
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