Q. Months ago I heard about a new prescription drug for weight loss that also lowered cholesterol and blood sugar levels. It was awaiting approval. Has it become available?
A. The drug is rimonabant. Although it is now available in Europe, a panel of experts recommended to the FDA that it not be approved due to an increased risk of depression or suicidal thoughts.
Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist. Teresa Graedon holds a doctorate in medical anthropology and is a nutrition expert. Their syndicated radio show can be heard on public radio. In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of this newspaper or e-mail them via their Web site: www.PeoplesPharmacy.org.
© 2007 King Features Syndicate, Inc.