Chemical Properties
White Solid
Uses
A serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNR). Decreases calorie intake and increases energy expenditure
Uses
antiobesity agent;neurotransmitter reuptake inhibitor
Description
Sibutramine was introduced as Meridia in the US for the control of
obesity, in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet. Sibutramine can be prepared
in four steps from 4-chlorobenzyl cyanide. Sibutramine acts as a serotonin and
noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor ; in animal studies, it reduces energy intake by
creating a satieted feeling and increases energy expenditure by enhancing
thermogenesis. In a clinical study in obese patients treated with 10 or 15 mg of
Sibutramine once-daily, meaningful weight loss was sustained for 12 months ;
an additional study demonstrated a lack of abuse potential. An appreciable part
of Sibutramine's effect would also be due to its 2N-mono and didesmethylmetabolites,
which are very potent monoamine reuptake inhibitors
themselves.
Originator
Knoll (Germany)
Brand name
Meridia (Abbott);Meridia, Reductil.
