Depression affects many people all over the world and treatments vary from person to person. One treatment may help one patient but not another. The reasons for depression have been linked to external factors, chemical imbalances, and other factors that researchers are still discovering. Recently, individuals using the obesity drug Meridia have been reporting that it also helps with depression. The question is how true are these statements?
What is Meridia and how does it work?
Sibutramine hydrochloride – otherwise known as Meridia – is a drug designed to help the seriously overweight lose the excess pounds and keep them off. Is it highly recommended for obese people who have high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, and when used with a low-calorie diet, it proves effective. Meridia works by boosting the levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinehprine. These chemical messengers help keep the brain functioning properly and when they are absent in the system, obesity, depression and other conditions can occur.
Is Meridia really good for depression?
Some patients who have used Meridia have reported that they get a ‘good feeling’ from it. The medication stabilizes the serotonin levels in the brain and that is why people suddenly feel good when taking the medication. Unfortunately the effect doesn’t work very long. Meridia is not approved for depression.
What are Meridia’s side effects?
Because everyone responds to medications and treatments differently, users of Meridia may not see any adverse effects when using it. Other people may react intensely to the drug. If any side effects occur, patient should seek out their doctor immediately. Side effects can include, but are not limited to: abdominal pain; anxiety; back pain; constipation; depression; dizziness; headache; insomnia; joint pain; nausea; rash; stomach-ache; and sore throat.
One of the biggest complaints users of Meridia have had is that it actually causes depression. While depression is listed as one of the side effects, there have been other weight loss drugs of the same class that have also been used as antidepressants. Do the adverse effects outweigh the benefits for the user? That decision has to be made between the patient and their doctor and while they are taking the medication for weight loss, they should be monitored closely.
Consider your options when taking Meridia
Anyone who is taking Meridia who begins to have adverse affects from the medication should report their symptoms to their doctor. When using it, they should maintain a healthy diet, drink plenty of water, and exercise. It has been shown that exercise helps stave off the symptoms and feelings of depression. Never use a prescription medicine for something it is not designed for unless it has been okayed by the doctor treating the patient.
If you are currently taking Meridia and you feel euphoric and happy after having a brush with depression, report these feelings to your doctor immediately. Never stop taking other medications the doctor has prescribed. Depression should never be treated lightly and if you are suddenly having thoughts of suicide or have attempted to hurt yourself, contact the proper authorities for help.