Rimonabant is an appetite suppressant that reduces food craving thus allowing patients to more easily comply with diets and exercise routines imposed by doctors.  According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, overweight and obesity are a major public health concern because they contribute immensely to other preventable causes of death. People that are overweight or obese are more prone to suffer from illnesses such as heart disease and strokes, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, gallbladder disease, high blood pressure, certain types of cancers, sleeping and breathing disorders, etc. Thus, by reducing obesity, Rimonabant can help save your life.

Rimonabant has become a widely prescribed medication for patients trying to combat obesity, and especially for patients already suffering from any of the above mentioned illnesses. It should be noted that Rimonabant is used as a short term treatment for obesity (from 1 to 3 months). Prolonged use can result in unwanted side effects, so it is important to consult your doctor before beginning use. This appetite suppressant is normally combined with special diets, exercise routines, and even psychological or behavioral therapy.

Overweight vs. Obesity

According to the National Center for Disease Statistics, a person becomes overweight when their BMI (Body Mass Index) is 25 kg/m2 or more. Obesity is more severe than being overweight. A person is considered obese when their body mass index is 30 kg/m2 or more. It should be noted that predetermine use is not recommended for people having normal body mass indexes: which are between 18.5 and 24.9. Most doctors will only prescribe it if your BMI is 28 or greater.

The Different Faces of Rimonabant

Rimonabant is sold under many labels. The most common brand names are Acomplia and Slimona but there are many names and generic versions of Rimonabant, Obitone and genereic Rimonabant. Your doctor will probably make the final decision as to what Rimonabant type or dosage is right for you. Normal recommended dosages run around 20 mgs per day.

Side Effects

Rimonabant does increase your blood pressure and makes your heart beat faster. People just starting out with Rimonabant might also suffer from any of the following mentioned side effects. It should be noted that most of these conditions are temporary, and should go away once the body gets used to the new medication. If they persist, consult your doctor immediately.

- Constipation

- Trouble Sleeping

- Blurry Vision

- Excessive thirst due to a having a dry mouth

Rimonabant use might also make some people cranky or more irritable than normal. Side effects have not been determined for patients who take Rimonabant for a prolonged period of time. Some people claim that the body will become accustomed to the drugs presence and it will simply loose its effect. But since prolonged use is not recommended, no clinical studies have been performed to determine side effects on people’s health.

Is Rimonabant Right for You?

The above information should give you a good indication of whether or not you are a good candidate for a Rimonabant treatment. If you have trouble controlling your appetite and your body mass index is greater than 28, then Rimonabant might indeed be a good option for you.