Duration of Usage

Reductil is approved for longer periods of use (12 months or more) and promotes gradual weight loss over longer periods. Studies involving more than 1 year administration of REDUCTIL to patients are ongoing.

Every person will respond differently to Reductil when used as part of a comprehensive weight loss program. You may be able to lose 4 or more pounds of body weight in the first month you take Reductil. If you find that you do not lose at least 4 pounds during the first month, you should notify your doctor so he or she can re-evaluate your situation. Your doctor may wish to change your dose of Reductil (Meridia).

Patients who have demonstrated an adequate response to REDUCTIL (ie weight loss of =2kg within 4 weeks at a defined dose), usually achieve maximal weight loss (5% -10% of initial body weight) after completing 6 months continuous treatment with REDUCTIL. Scientific studies that lasted one year have shown that many people who lost weight and remained on Reductil therapy maintained their weight loss.

Treatment must be discontinued in patients who have not responded adequately, i.e whose weight loss stabilizes at less than 5% of their initial bodyweight or whose weight loss within 3 months after starting therapy has been less than 5% of their initial bodyweight. Treatment should not be continued in patients who regain 3kg or more after previously achieved weight loss.

In patients with associated co-morbid conditions, it is recommended that treatment with REDUCTIL should only be continued if it can be shown the weight loss induced is associated with clinical benefits.