Introduction:
Research has proved that it is not worth ingesting sibutramine each day. Apart from its ability to treat obesity, sibutramine has been linked with heart disease. The drug is currently manufactured by Abbott Laboratories under the brand names Reductil, Sibutrex and Meridia since it received approval from the Food and Drug Administration in November 1997.

Pharmacodynamics of Sibutramine:
In order to understand the pharmacodynamics of Sibutramine, we need to zoom into the nervous system of the human body. Our nervous system consists of several neurons, which carry nerve impulses. However, there is no physical contact between these neurons. Instead they are chemically connected with the help of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine. Once an electrical signal reaches the end of a neuron, it stimulates that neuron to release neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft, which in turn generates an electrical impulse in the succeeding neuron. As this process continues, the impulse reaches the brain or a target organ. Thus, the neurotransmitters are a vital part in transmission of the nerve impulse.

Sibutramine inhibits the reuptake of neurotransmitters by neurons. This leads to a high concentration of these chemicals in the synaptic cleft. Research has proved that low levels of serotonin in blood lead to an increased appetite. Thus by preventing the reuptake of serotonin, sibutramine assists in reducing an individual's appetite.

Side effects:
So why is it not worth losing weight the easy way? That is because sibutramine is a dagger that stabs your heart. Since it is a neurotransmitter reuptake inhibitor, it also leads to increased levels of dopamine in the blood stream. Dopamine is known to increase heart rate and blood pressure. Thus, sibutramine increases the risks of stroke and heart disease. Other possible side effects due to the usage of the drug are dizziness, insomnia and muscle pain.

Regulation:
The Food and Drug Administration is currently studying the risk of cardiovascular disease due to sibutramine. As of January 21, 2010 the drug has been withdrawn from the United Kingdom and European Union markets following orders from the European Medicines Agency. Several weight-loss products also contain undisclosed quantities of sibutramine. For example, Applied Life Sciences Research Industries Inc. had to recall Venom HYPERDRIVE 3.0 after tests by the Food and Drug Administration showed undisclosed, elevated amounts of sibutramine.

Conclusion:
So get out and get moving. Do not sit at home and pop slimming pills, while flipping channels on your television set. You are putting your own heart at risk. As the old saying goes "it's blood, sweat and tears" that helps one lose weight.

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