






Herbal Spotlight








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sibutramine hydrochloride |
| Meridia |
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Pharmaceutical
company:
Abbott Laboratories www.abbott.com |
NEW WARNING
After reviewing data, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notified health care professionals about an increased risk of MI and stroke in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease who are being treated with sibutramine (Meridia). Sibutramine is indicated for treatment of obesity in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet. The FDA requested that the manufacturer add a new contraindication to prescribing information stating that the drug shouldn't be used in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease, including coronary artery disease, stroke, transient ischemic attack, arrhythmias, heart failure, peripheral arterial disease and uncontrolled hypertension. Patients currently prescribed sibutramine should consult with their health care provider to determine when they should continue treatment with the drug.
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