Meridia Risks - Increased Heart Attack and Stroke Risks

Patients using the prescription drug Meridia are being asked to contact the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and report any side effects. This comes after a new study revealed that Meridia, (sibutramine hydrochloride) prescribed to overweight patients who may be at risk for diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure, may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke or other cardiovascular problems.

The study is currently being reviewed by FDA regulators who have released an early communication based on the data. Although the FDA has promised to announce any regulatory action as soon as possible, the agency has advised doctors and their patients to follow the current guidelines, which recommend against using Meridia in people with a history of cardiovascular conditions.
The study included approximately 10,000 people aged 55 or older, with a history of heart disease or diabetes, and one additional risk factor for cardiovascular problems. Approximately 5,000 people were asked to take Meridia while the other half received a placebo pill. Serious cardiovascular events occurred in:

• 11.4% of people taking Meridia
• 10% of individuals taking a sugar pill

The difference is higher than expected and strongly suggests that sibutramine is associated with an increased cardiovascular risk.
The manufacturer of sibutramine says that Meridia is safe when used as recommended. The analysis of the data is ongoing and is being conducted by the FDA as well as the manufacturer.

The FDA is asking patients who are currently using Meridia to consult their doctor before discontinuing use.

Meridia Side Effects

Meridia is generally prescribed to people with a body mass index of 30 and higher to assist in weight management. The drug affects the patient’s brain to help them feel full, thus eat less.

A number of patients who have taken Meridia have developed side effects, the most common of which include:

• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Throbbing heart beat
• Difficulty breathing
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Anxiety and mood swings
• Fever
• Swelling
• Tingling skin sensation

Meridia Lawsuits

If you or your loved one experienced a heart attack, stroke or a similar cardiovascular problem while on Meridia, you may be entitled to receive compensation. If the data is confirmed by the FDA, the manufacturer may be held liable for negligence.

The law offices of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis and Overholtz boast some of the best personal injury attorneys Florida has to offer. Contact AWKO Law today at (850) 202-1010 to learn more about your rights as a victim of this potentially harmful product.