Rimonabant

Rimonabant (also known as SR141716; trade names Acomplia, Bethin, Monaslim, Remonabent, Riobant, Slimona, Rimoslim, Zimulti, and Riomont) is an anorectic antiobesity drug that has been withdrawn from the market. It is an inverse agonist for the cannabinoid receptor CB1. Its main effect is reduction in appetite.

Rimonabant was the first selective CB1 receptor blocker to be approved for use anywhere in the world. In Europe, it was indicated for use in conjunction with diet and exercise for patients with a body mass index greater than 30 kg/m², or patients with a BMI greater than 27 kg/m² with associated risk factors, such as type 2 diabetes or dyslipidaemia. In the UK, it was available beginning in July 2006. As of 2008, the drug was available in 56 countries. On 23 October 2008, the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) issued a press release stating its Committee for Medical Products for Human Use (CHMP) had concluded the benefits of Acomplia no longer outweighed its risks, and subsequently recommended the product be suspended from the UK market. Sanofi-Aventis later released a press statement stating the drug had been suspended. Approval of the drug was officially withdrawn by the EMEA on 16 January 2009.