The rimonabant known commercially as Acomplia or Redufast, is a medicine that was used for slimming, with action in the central nervous system diminishing the appetite.
This medicine works by blocking receptors in the brain and peripheral organs, reducing the hyperactivity of the endocannabinoid system, resulting in decreased appetite, regulating body weight and energy balance, as well as metabolism of sugars and fats, thus helping to lose weight.
Despite their effectiveness, the sale of these drugs has been suspended because of the increased risk of developing psychiatric complications.
How to use
The mode of use of rimonabant is 1 tablet of 20 mg daily, the morning before breakfast, orally, taken whole, without being broken or chewed. Treatment should be accompanied by a low-calorie diet and an increase in the level of physical activity.
The recommended dose of 20 mg per day should not be exceeded because of the increased risk of adverse events.
Mechanism of action
Rimonabant is a cannabinoid receptor antagonist and acts by blocking a specific type of cannabinoid receptors called CB1, which are found in the nervous system and are part of the system the body uses to control food intake. These receptors are also present in adipocytes, which are adipose tissue cells.
Possible side effects
Side effects that may be caused by this medicine are nausea and upper respiratory tract infections, stomach discomfort, vomiting, sleep disturbances, nervousness, depression, irritability, dizziness, diarrhea, anxiety, itching, excessive sweating, cramps or muscle spasms., fatigue, black spots, pain and inflammation in the tendons, memory loss, back pain, altered sensitivity in the hands and feet, hot flashes, flu and dislocation, drowsiness, night sweats, hiccups, anger.
In addition, symptoms of panic, restlessness, emotional disturbance, suicidal thoughts, aggression or aggressive behavior may also occur.
Contraindications
Currently, ribonabant is contraindicated in the whole population, having been withdrawn from the market due to its side effects.
During its marketing, its use was not recommended in pregnant women, during breastfeeding, in children under 18 years of age, people with renal or hepatic impairment or with some uncontrolled psychiatric disorder.
