Study Shows Meridia May Lead to Increased Heart Attack and Stroke Risks

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has released early communication following new data suggesting that popular weight loss drug Meridia — brand name of the drug sibutramine — may increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. The FDA is currently analyzing the data and has promised to expedite the review process; which will most likely lead to regulatory action.

Meridia is a weight loss drug prescribed to patients whose body mass index is 30 or higher and who may be at risk for diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure. Meridia suppresses appetite by affecting the brain, and is most effective when used in conjunction with a low calorie diet.

Meridia Risks

The FDA announcement follows a European study that included 10,000 participants, half of who used Meridia and half of who took a placebo (sugar) pill. Serious cardiovascular events occurred in approximately 11.4 percent of people who were taking Meridia, compared with ten percent of individuals taking the sugar pill. The study concludes that the dramatic difference in numbers suggest that Meridia increases the risk of cardiovascular problems that could lead to death.

Meridia Lawsuits

Although the disturbing conclusion of this study is still being analyzed by the FDA, Meridia has been prescribed to patients for over ten years, may have contributed to a number of heart attacks, strokes and death.

If you or your loved developed cardiovascular problems while on Meridia, you may be entitled to compensation by the manufacturer of the drug. The attorneys of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis and Overholtz have an extensive and successful history in filing claims against defective drug manufacturers. To learn more about filing a claim against Wyeth, contact their law office at (888) 255-2956.