Abbott Withdraws Meridia in U.S. Markets

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) asked Abbott Laboratories to voluntarily withdraw its weight loss drug Meridia (sibutramine) from the U.S. market. Clinical trial data indicates an increased risk of cardiovascular adverse events, including heart attack and stroke, in the studied population. Abbott has agreed to this request.

The estimated member impact for pharmacy claims for Meridia is approximately 165. Members should be advised to stop taking Meridia and to talk to their healthcare professional about alternative weight loss treatment and weight loss management programs.

In addition, members should contact their healthcare professional right away if they experience pain in the chest, heart palpitations, abnormal heart rate or rhythm, or other symptoms including dizziness and lightheadedness. To learn more, visit FDA Drug Safety Communication

What side effects can this medication cause?

Sibutramine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• headache

• change in appetite

• constipation

• heartburn

• dry mouth

• weakness

• back pain

• nervousness

• difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep

• runny nose

• flu-like symptoms

• flushing

• painful menstrual periods

Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:

• fast or pounding heartbeat

• chest pain

• shortness of breath

• nausea

• stomach pain

• vomiting

• extreme excitement

• restlessness

• anxiety

• depression

• dizziness

• lightheadedness

• fainting

• confusion

• uncoordinated or abnormal movement

• muscle stiffness

• shaking hands that you cannot control

• seizures

• shivering

• excessive sweating

• fever

• sore throat

• large pupils (black area in center of eyes)

• change in vision

• eye pain

• hives

• skin rash

• itching

• difficulty speaking, breathing, or swallowing

• hoarseness

• swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs

• unusual bleeding or bruising

Sibutramine may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.