Drug Uses

This medication is used to reduce excess body weight (obesity).

How Taken

Take by mouth exactly as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. The full effect on weight may require four to six weeks. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. Also, if used for a longer period of time, do not suddenly stop using this drug without your doctor's approval. Over time, this drug may not work as well as it did at the beginning. Consult your doctor if weight increases.

Warnings/Precautions

Before using this drug, tell your doctor your entire medical history, including any allergies (especially drug allergies), liver or kidney disease, high blood pressure or heart disease, history of stroke or seizures, certain eating disorders (e.g., anorexia nervosa), glaucoma (narrow angle), or history of gallstones. Limit alcohol intake, as it may worsen certain side effects of this medication. It is recommended that women of child-bearing age should use effective birth control while taking this medication. Meridia is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this drug. It is not known whether it is excreted into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug. Use cautiously.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, make it up as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double- up" the dose to catch up.

Possible Side Effects

Dry mouth, drowsiness, constipation and difficulty sleeping may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.

More Information

Do not share this medication with others. Meridia should be used in addition to a reduced calorie diet. Blood pressure and pulse may be measured and laboratory tests performed to monitor side effects.

Disclaimer

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.