Sibutramine

What is Sibutramine?

Sibutramine, branded as Meridia, is an oral serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) at 20 mg/tab in a 100-tab pack from Dragon Pharma. Previously used for obesity management, it's employed in bodybuilding for fat loss by suppressing appetite. As a 17-alpha-alkylated oral, it has moderate hepatotoxicity, no aromatization, and significant cardiovascular risks, requiring strict medical oversight. Withdrawn in many countries (e.g., USA, EU) in 2010 due to increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

Mechanism of Action Sibutramine

Sibutramine inhibits the reuptake of serotonin (by ~54%), norepinephrine (by ~73%), and dopamine (by ~16%), increasing synaptic levels to enhance satiety and reduce appetite. It may also increase thermogenesis, raising body temperature slightly to boost calorie expenditure. Users notice reduced hunger and weight loss within weeks when paired with a calorie deficit.

With a half-life of approximately 1 hour for the parent compound and 14-16 hours for its active metabolites (M1 and M2), Sibutramine requires daily dosing for sustained effects. It doesn't affect hormonal pathways directly, ensuring no endocrine disruption. What doesn't happen: no testosterone suppression or estrogenic effects, but cardiovascular monitoring is critical due to risks of hypertension and arrhythmias.

Side effects like increased blood pressure or heart rate may occur, requiring careful management and medical supervision.

How It Works & Key Benefits

Sibutramine excels for bodybuilders and individuals in cutting cycles, requiring a low-calorie, high-protein diet and exercise to maximize fat loss while preserving muscle.

• Suppresses appetite for effective calorie control.
• Promotes fat loss (5-10% body weight in studies).
• Enhances satiety to prevent overeating.
• Supports lean physique goals in cutting phases.
• Boosts thermogenesis for increased calorie burn.
• Stacks well with other fat-loss agents.

Who It's For & Product Specifications

Best for experienced bodybuilders and individuals seeking fat loss in cutting cycles; suitable for men and women with strict medical oversight. Not recommended for those with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or without medical clearance due to significant risks.

Substance	Sibutramine Hydrochloride
Concentration	20 mg/tab
Form	Oral tablets
Pack Size	100 tabs
Half-life	1 hour (parent), 14-16 hours (metabolites)
Aromatization/Hepatic	Non-aromatizing / Moderate hepatic
Primary Use	Weight loss, appetite suppression
Manufacturer	Dragon Pharma
Brand	Meridia

How to Use

1. Dosage: 10-20 mg/day for men and women; start at 10 mg to assess tolerance, increase to 15-20 mg if needed after 4 weeks.
2. Frequency: Daily, taken in the morning with or without food to avoid insomnia.
3. Cycle length: 4-12 weeks, guided by medical supervision due to cardiovascular risks.
4. Preparation/Monitoring tips: Take with water; monitor blood pressure and heart rate weekly; maintain a low-calorie, high-protein diet (1.5-2g/kg body weight); avoid MAOIs, SSRIs, or other SNRIs to prevent serotonin syndrome.
5. Results timeline: Appetite suppression in 1-2 weeks; significant fat loss in 4-8 weeks with diet and exercise.
6. PCT timing: Not required as Sibutramine doesn't suppress hormones; align with steroid stack's PCT if combined (e.g., 3-4 days post-short ester).

Popular Stacks

Clenbuterol: Enhances thermogenic fat loss for synergy.

GW 501516: Boosts endurance and fat metabolism.

Anavar: Preserves lean muscle during cutting.

Cycle Support: Supports cardiovascular and liver health.

Comparisons & Alternatives

Sibutramine vs Phentermine: Sibutramine suppresses appetite via SNRI action; Phentermine is a stimulant with shorter-term use.

Sibutramine vs Orlistat: Sibutramine reduces appetite; Orlistat blocks fat absorption with GI side effects.

Sibutramine vs Semaglutide: Sibutramine acts centrally on neurotransmitters; Semaglutide is a GLP-1 agonist with longer-lasting effects and fewer cardiovascular risks.

Side Effects & Risk Management

• Cardiometabolic: Increased blood pressure, heart rate (1-3 mmHg, 4-5 bpm)—monitor vitals weekly, avoid in cardiovascular disease.
• Systemic: Dry mouth, insomnia, headache—stay hydrated, take early, adjust dose if needed.
• Neurological: Anxiety, mood changes—monitor mood, consult if severe.
• Hepatic: Moderate strain—monitor liver function, use liver support (milk thistle).
• Endocrine: None; no hormonal disruption.

Review labs and vitals with a professional where lawful to ensure safety, given its withdrawal due to cardiovascular risks. Avoid unregulated sources.

Post-Cycle Therapy (PCT)

Sibutramine requires no PCT as it doesn't suppress testosterone or HPTA; align with steroid stack's PCT if combined (e.g., 3-4 days post-short ester). Use tamoxifen or clomiphene for 4 weeks if needed, guided by bloodwork.