Meridia Side Effects

Extensive clinical trials have shown that the most common side effects of Meridia include headaches, dry mouth, and a loss of appetite. In most cases, side effects are minor and easily treated. Some Meridia side effects, however, should be reported to your healthcare provider right away, such as seizures, unexplained bleeding, or depression.

 

An Introduction to Meridia Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Meridia® (sibutramine hydrochloride monohydrate). However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. In most cases, side effects occur when too much Meridia is taken.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Meridia. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Meridia side effects with you.)
 

Common Side Effects of Meridia

Meridia has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occur in a group of people taking the drug are documented and then compared to the side effects that occur in another group of people not taking the medicine. As a result, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, the most common Meridia side effects included:
 
  • Headaches -- in up to 30.3 percent of people
  • Dry mouth -- up to 17.2 percent
  • Loss of appetite -- up to 13 percent
  • Constipation -- up to 11.5 percent
  • Insomnia -- up to 10.7 percent (see Meridia and Insomnia)
  • A runny or stuffy nose -- up to 10.2 percent
  • A sore throat -- up to 10 percent.
     
Other common side effects (occurring in 2 to 9 percent of people) included:
 
  • Back pain
  • Flu symptoms (such as fever, chills, and body aches)
  • Accidental injury
  • Weakness
  • Abdominal pain (stomach pain)
  • Flushing
  • Migraines (see Meridia and Migraines)
  • An increased appetite
  • Nausea
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Joint pain
  • Dizziness
  • Nervousness
  • Unusual sensations (such as burning, tingling, or numbness)
  • Sinus infections
  • Coughing
  • Sweating
  • Taste changes
  • Painful menstrual periods
  • Bladder infections (urinary tract infections or UTIs).
 
(Meridia Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;