Is it qualified?
I would like to ask if Sibutramine is an approved weight loss medication by the Department of Health? How can I distinguish if it is counterfeit?
Fa La Li, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/07/19
Dr. Liao Lingmei reply Pharmacology
Dear Ferrari: Currently, the only weight loss medications approved by the Department of Health are the following three types: those that suppress appetite through central nervous system action, such as PPA and Sibutramine (Reductil®, Meridia), and those that inhibit gastrointestinal enzymes that break down fats, thereby reducing fat absorption, such as Orlistat (Xenical®, Roche).
Therefore, Meridia is a qualified weight loss medication.
Meridia is a long-acting oral capsule that inhibits the reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine to enhance postprandial satiety and increase basal metabolic rate, thereby achieving weight control.
According to foreign reports, taking 10 mg of Meridia for a year can result in approximately 5% weight loss, while a domestic report states that an average weight loss of about 3.63 kg can be achieved after five months of use.
It is recommended to take one tablet daily, either in the morning on an empty stomach or with meals, available in 10 mg and 15 mg formulations.
Meridia is listed among the top ten most commonly counterfeited medications by the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America.
For example, counterfeit Meridia is priced about 10-20% lower than the genuine product, and the packaging of counterfeit Meridia lacks Chinese labeling and comes in a package of thirty tablets, while the genuine Meridia should have Chinese labeling and come in a package of twenty-eight tablets.
When purchasing medications, be sure to check the packaging or leaflet for details, including: product name, "Department of Health Approval No.
××××", "Department of Health Drug Approval No.
××××", and "Department of Health Drug Import No.
××××", as well as the manufacturer's name and address, manufacturing date or batch number, active ingredient content, dosage, administration, therapeutic effects, performance or indications, side effects, contraindications, and other precautions, as well as the expiration date or shelf life.
Recently, Abbott Laboratories also issued an urgent statement to pharmacists that the only distributor selling through pharmacy channels is Wei Bo Co., Ltd.
This response is delayed due to late notification, and I hope it does not disappoint you.
Wishing you health and happiness!
Reply Date: 2004/07/19
More Info
Sibutramine, known by the brand name Meridia and marketed as 諾美婷 in Taiwan, was previously approved for weight loss in several countries, including Taiwan. However, it is important to note that as of 2010, the use of Sibutramine has been suspended in many countries, including the United States and the European Union, due to concerns about its cardiovascular safety. In Taiwan, the drug has also faced scrutiny, and its approval status may have changed. Therefore, it is crucial to consult the latest information from Taiwan's Ministry of Health and Welfare or a healthcare professional to confirm whether Sibutramine is currently approved for use in weight management.
When it comes to identifying fake drugs, there are several key factors to consider:
1. Packaging: Genuine medications typically have high-quality packaging. Look for any signs of tampering, such as broken seals, misspellings, or unusual colors and fonts on the packaging. Authentic products usually have clear labeling, including the manufacturer's name, product name, dosage, and expiration date.
2. Physical Appearance: Check the physical characteristics of the drug, such as color, shape, and size. If the pills or capsules look different from what you have received in the past, this could be a red flag. Authentic medications will have consistent appearances based on their manufacturing standards.
3. Source: Always purchase medications from licensed pharmacies or reputable sources. Avoid buying drugs from unverified online vendors or street vendors, as these are more likely to sell counterfeit products. In Taiwan, it is advisable to obtain medications from pharmacies that are registered with the Ministry of Health and Welfare.
4. Price: If the price of a medication seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be cautious of significantly lower prices compared to what is typically charged at licensed pharmacies. Counterfeit drugs are often sold at lower prices to attract buyers.
5. Verification: Many pharmaceutical companies provide ways to verify the authenticity of their products. This may include a unique code on the packaging that can be checked on the manufacturer's website or through a dedicated app. If you are unsure, you can contact the manufacturer directly for verification.
6. Consult a Professional: If you have any doubts about a medication's authenticity, consult a healthcare professional or pharmacist. They can provide guidance and help you determine whether the medication is legitimate.
In summary, while Sibutramine was previously approved for weight loss in Taiwan, its current status should be verified with health authorities. When purchasing medications, always prioritize safety by sourcing them from reputable places and being vigilant about identifying counterfeit products. If you suspect that you have received a fake drug, do not take it and report it to the relevant health authorities.
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