Information for GPs

Key information for GPs considering prescribing Acomplia (Rimonabant).

1. Rimonabant is an oral selective cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist. It is licensed for use as a weight loss aid in obese or overweight patients with type II diabetes or dyslipidaemia.
2. Rimonabant taken for up to two years in conjuction with diet and exercise produces greater weight loss than the placebo, although most of the weight loss occurs in the first year.
3. The drug has not been tested beyond 2 years, but it is likely that weight will be regained once the treatment has ended.
4. The main reasons that patients will stop taking the drug are gastrointestinal disorders and psychiatric disorders, which were significantly higher in the treated group than the control.
5. Patients will need to be motivated to stick to a calorie controlled diet and exercise plan to see the best results.
6. The Cost
   The current cost for a 28 day supply is £55.20. It is likely that, once approved by NICE, they will recommend that the drug should not be used for more than a year, as this is their current recommendation with orlistat and sibutramine.
7. The Target Audience
   Sanofi-Aventis has stated that the initial target audience is patients with abdominal obesity plus an additional risk factor such as type 2 diabetes or dyslipidaemia.
8. If you are going to prescribe rimonabant, you will need to make arrangements to counsel and support your patient, offering appropriate advice on diet and exercise, and monitor the weight loss and any side effects.
9. Make sure your read the contraindications regarding this drug. In particular do not prescribe it to patients who have psychiatric problems or who are depressed.