Rimonabant

Rimonabant

Rimonabant is a type of anorectic antiobesity drug that was first approved in Europe in 2006 but was later withdrawn worldwide in 2008 due to serious psychiatric side effects. It was never approved in the United States. Rimonabant is an inverse agonist for the cannabinoid receptor CB1. Its main avenue of effect is reduction in appetite.

History

Rimonabant was developed by the French pharmaceutical company Sanofi-Aventis and was approved for the treatment of obesity in the European Union in 2006. However, it was withdrawn globally in 2008 after research indicated a significant increase in the risk of psychiatric disorders among users.

Mechanism of Action

Rimonabant acts by selectively blocking cannabinoid receptors in the brain and peripheral organs that are involved in the regulation of food intake and energy expenditure. As an inverse agonist for the cannabinoid receptor CB1, it reduces appetite and induces weight loss.

Side Effects

The use of Rimonabant has been associated with significant side effects, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. These psychiatric effects led to its withdrawal from the market.

Current Status

Rimonabant (also known as SR141716; trade names Acomplia and Zimulti) was approved in Europe in 2006. However, it was withdrawn worldwide in 2008 due to serious psychiatric side effects. Rimonabant was never approved in the United States. Since its withdrawal, Rimonabant is not available for prescription. However, its mechanism of action continues to be studied for potential therapeutic uses, particularly in the treatment of addictions and metabolic disorders.

See Also

• Cannabinoid receptor
• Anorectic
• Sanofi-Aventis

References

• PMC article: [1]

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