Meridia is a drug used in the treatment of obesity. It is supposed to work on the appetite control centers of the brain to help the patient feel full faster. Statistically, it is said to increase weight loss by 5-9%. Unfortunately, it also increases blood pressure, which can be extremely dangerous, causing heart attacks and strokes. In addition, people who are already taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) for depression should never take Meridia. Patients taking this drug also become dependent. In most cases, weight gain begins immediately after ceasing to use the drug. Therefore, the benefits are lost as soon as a person quits taking the medication. Twenty-nine deaths have been attributed to Meridia-19 of them are heart related. Meridia is also a controlled substance that can ultimately lead to addiction.