The European Medicines Agency (EMEA) has recommended the suspension of the marketing authorisation for Acomplia (rimonabant), used to treat obesity.
The drug was first authorised in Europe in 2006 and up until now has been prescribed to aid weight-loss in people with abdominal obesity plus an additional risk factor, such as Type 2 diabetes. It is used as an addition to diet and physical activity.
The EMEA’s Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) has concluded that the benefits of Acomplia no longer outweigh its risks and that the marketing authorisation across Europe should be suspended.
Warnings about pyschiatric side-effects including depression, have been included with the drug since Acomplia was first authorised for use.
The European Medicines Agency had advised people with ongoing severe depression or those taking antidepressants not to take the drug. There were concerns that the pill could cause an increased suicide risk in that specific group of patients.
The EMEA is recommending that healthcare professionals stop prescribing the medication and anyone who is
currently taking the drug should consult their GP or healthcare professional as soon as possible.