SIBUTRAMINE 25

Sibutramine is a centrally acting serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) formerly used as an anti-obesity agent to support weight reduction in patients with obesity or metabolic syndrome. By inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine in the central nervous system, sibutramine enhances satiety and increases resting energy expenditure. It does not act as an appetite suppressant in the classical stimulant sense but modulates neurotransmitter levels to promote reduced caloric intake and improve metabolic control. While initially effective for long-term weight management when combined with diet and exercise, sibutramine was withdrawn in many countries due to an increased risk of cardiovascular adverse events, particularly in patients with pre-existing heart disease. Common side effects included dry mouth, insomnia, constipation, and elevated blood pressure or heart rate. Its use is now generally restricted or banned, although it remains of interest in pharmacological and regulatory contexts.