Acomplia

Acomplia (Rimonabant) is an anti-obesity drug that blocks selective CB1 endocannabinoid receptors. These are the same receptors that are responsible for increased appetite in those who use cannabis or who tend to eat out of emotional need. Blocking these biochemical receptors results in reduced appetite and over-eating. In addition to decreasing appetite, Acomplia increases metabolism of fats and sugars. Clinical trials have been very encouraging with significant weight loss and reductions in waist measurements.
Obesity is a risk factor in several debilitating and potentially debilitating conditions including Type II Diabetes, heart disease, cardiovascular disease and respiratory complications. Acomplia, when used in conjunction with diet and exercise, can reduce these risks by lowering overall weight. In studies, Acomplia also performed better than expected in improving HDL cholesterol, triglyceride and HbA1C (a diabetes marker) levels in those that received 20mg daily.
Additionally, Acomplia may help in smoking cessation and the treatment of drug addiction. These “off label” uses are still being studied but Acomplia has proven to be effective in these conditions thus far.
Acomplia should not be
Despite all the benefits of Acomplia use, there are risks associate with its use. These risks may be too great for certain people to take Acomplia safely. Children and adolescents should not take Acomplia as potentially serious psychological and developmental complications may occur. Acomplia should not be used by anyone with a depressive disorder since it has been shown to increase mood alterations and suicidal ideology. Also, you should not take Acomplia during pregnancy because of increased risk for certain birth defects. Do not breastfeed while on Acomplia since it can pass through breast milk and may lead to an unhealthy drop in weight for the infant. If you have poor liver function, Acomplia should be avoided since it is metabolized by the liver. Acomplia contains lactose and should not be taken by those who are intolerant to it or any other component of Acomplia.
As with any medication, make sure your physician is aware of any chronic health condition, especially heart or kidney disease, and all medications you are taking prior to prescribing Acomplia. Follow your physician’s guidelines exactly, including diet and exercise suggestions as only your physician can evaluate your overall condition.
The side effects of Acomplia are generally mild and often decrease or taper away during continued treatment. The most common side effects include – nausea/vomiting, depression/mood alterations, and insomnia. Notify your physician immediately if you begin to experience suicidal thoughts. Other side effects include dizziness, altered physical sensation in hands and feet, increased incidence of falls, tendon pain or inflammation, back pain, muscle spasms, excessive sweating, fatigue and increased bruising. In rare cases, hallucinations have been associated with Acomplia use.
Acomplia should be taken as directed by a physician. The usual dose is 20mg tablet, swallowed whole, before breakfast each day. If you are diabetic, ask your physician about how often you should check your blood sugars while taking Acomplia.
Keep your physician up-to-date on your Acomplia treatment. Let your physician know if you do not experience the results you are expecting. Your physician may be able to suggest methods to improve your treatment plan.

Weight Loss