Evidence suggests that there is an increased risk of non-fatal heart attacks and strokes with this medicine that outweighs the benefits of weight loss, which is modest and may not be sustained in the long term after stopping treatment.

Prescribers are advised not to issue any new prescriptions for Reductil and to review the treatment of patients taking the drug. Pharmacists are asked to cease dispensing the medicine. People who are currently taking Reductil are advised to make a routine appointment with their doctor to discuss alternative measures to lose weight. There are no health implications if people wish to stop treatment before seeing their doctor.

For further information please visit the European Medicines Agency (EMA) website, http://www.ema.europa.eu/