Side Effects of Acomplia

All drugs have side effects, and Acomplia is no exception. Some of the side effects are beneficial - such as the altered blood lipid profile. However, there are other known side effects that may influence whether or not you continue to take the drug.

1. Nausea and vomitting
   Nausea, vomitting and other gastrointestinal disorders were relatively common side effects of taking Acomplia.
2. Disorders of the nervous system
   This category includes headaches, faintness and feeling dizzy.
3. Psychiatric disorders
   Including mood swings, anxiety, depression, irritability, sleep disorders and other similar disorders. The current advice is that you should not take this drug if you suffer from mental health problems. Tthe drug is not suitable for those with continuing major depressive illness and/or antidepressive treatment.

The table to the left is an indication of the relevant frequency of side effects when taking 20mg Acomplia daily, compared to the placebo.

(Source: one year data from RIO-LIPIDS, RIO-Europe and RIO-NORTH AMERICA)

The incidence of depressive disorders or altered mood with symptoms of depression have occurred in up to 10% of patients who have been prescribed Acomplia, and the incidence of suicidal thoughts occurs in 1% of patients receiving the drug.

However, in July 2007, the EMA (European Medicines Agency) concluded that the benefits of Acomplia outweigh the risks, with the exception of patients who are suffering from continuing major depression and/or are taking antidepressants.