Why is rimonabant banned?
The European Medicines Evaluation Agency has banned Sibutramine, which commands a Rs 24-lakh annual market in India. With this ban, the only anti-obesity drug available globally is orlistate. Fenfluramine, dexfenfluramine and rimonabant have already been banned because the side effects outweighed the benefits.
What are the side effects of rimonabant?
The side effects reported were mainly mild and transient and most frequently involved nausea, diarrhea, and dizziness. Rimonabant has potential as a treatment for smoking cessation because the central cannaboid system is also involved in the body’s response to tobacco dependence.
Is Rimonabant FDA approved?
The drug was never approved in the United States for the treatment of obesity. The marketing approval for Rimonabant has since been removed by the European Regulatory Authorities.
Is rimonabant a cannabinoid?
Rimonabant is a selective cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist that has undergone extensive testing in the treatment of obesity, as well as for treating nicotine dependence in humans.
Are there any side effects to taking rimonabant?
Serious psychological adverse effects, such as suicidality and depression led to the eventual global withdrawal of rimonabant by Sanofi-Aventis. Personal Communication. Sanofi-Aventis Medical Information Department. Rimonabant availability. September 12, 2011
Why was rimonabant not approved by the FDA?
In June of 2007, the FDA’s Endocrine and Metabolic Drugs Advisory Committee recommended against the approval of rimonabant (known in the United States as Zimulti) due to concerns over similar serious side effects. Subsequently, the FDA did not approve rimonabant, and it has never been marketed in the United States. What is Acomplia?
How does rimonabant work on the endocannabinoid system?
This drug acts as a blockade for endocannabinoid receptors found in the brain and peripheral organs that play an important role on carbohydrate and fat metabolism.
How is rimonabant used in the treatment of obesity?
Rimonabant is also being tested as a potential anti-smoking treatment since endocannabinoids are related to the pleasurable effect of nicotine. Thus, rimonabant constitutes a new therapeutic approach to obesity and cardiovascular risk factors.