USES: Meridia is used to reduce excess body weight (obesity).

HOW TO USE: Take by mouth exactly as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. The full effect on weight may require four to six weeks. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. Also, if used for a longer period of time, do not suddenly stop using this drug without your doctor's approval. Over time, this drug may not work as well as it did at the beginning. Consult your doctor if weight increases.

SIDE EFFECTS: Blurred vision, dizziness, dry mouth, irritability, sleeplessness, stomach upset or constipation may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: chest pain, nervousness, pounding heart, difficulty urinating, mood changes, breathing difficulties, swelling, skin rash. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

NOTES: Appetite suppressants are not a substitute for proper diet. For maximum effects, this must be used in combination with diet and exercise programs. Do not share Meridia with others.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: high blood pressure, over-active thyroid, glaucoma, diabetes, emotional or mental conditions, substance abuse problems, heart or circulation problems, allergies. If Meridia makes you dizzy or lightheaded, use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving. This drug is not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years of age. Benzphetamine should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. This drug may be excreted into breast milk. You may have to stop nursing or stop using this drug. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use, (prescription and nonprescription), especially of: blood pressure medicine, MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., doxepin, imipramine), drugs that affect the pH of urine (e.g., sodium bicarbonate), other drugs used to reduce weight. Alcohol may increase the dizziness effects of this medicine. Limit alcohol use. Avoid "stimulant" drugs that may increase your heart rate such as decongestants or caffeine. Decongestants are commonly found in cough-and-cold medicines. If you are uncertain your medicines contain either of these ingredients, consult your pharmacist. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include restlessness, tremor, rapid breathing, confusion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.