Acomplia diet pills are being touted as one of the newest miracle drugs on the market, but how effective and safe are they for the average dieter? The experimental weight loss drug completed clinical trials in late 2006, and the drug promises to not only help in losing weight, but also reduce addictions such as smoking and alcohol dependency. Acomplia is also designed to lower cholestoral levels and prevent abdominal fat accumulation-the cause of most obesity-related diseases and weight problems.

What is Acomplia?

Acomplia is a drug developed by Sanofi-Aventis in France, and helps to block the brain's action and reward system by reducing the pleasure signals from different activities. By breaking the reward cycle, Acomplia can help reduce many powerful addictions including overeating, smoking, alcohol dependency, and other behavior-related addictions. People who are overweight, obese, or find they are gaining weight rapidly may be able to use Acomplia to reduce the desire to eat and lower their sensitivity to food and food-related activities. As of September 2007, the drug will not enter the U.S. market under the Acomplia name for at least 3-4 years, but may show up as a drug for diabetes under the rimonabant name instead.

Acomplia contains the active ingredient rimonabant which works on regulating metabolism, appetite, and energy levels in the brain. This region of the brain is known as the endocannabinoid system, and the ingredient binds to the receptors to reduce appetite and block the messages that signal and trigger hunger. This is why Acomplia is also being considered in treatment for various addictions; the drug can help regulate blood glucose and lipid levels that are usually out of balance in a smoker's or drinker's lifestyle.

How Does Acomplia Work?

Acomplia helps to suppress the appetite and reduces cravings. It can significantly reduce the brain's pleasure-seeking system, reducing the chances of excess eating and body fat storage. Acomplia is still undergoing extensive research, but is being promoted as a powerful weight loss pill that can help smokers get over their addiction with ease. Since nicotine naturally elevates blood sugar, withdrawal symptoms include intense hunger pangs that often lead to overeating and weight gain.

How Can Acomplia Help Smokers?

Acomplia (Rimonabant) may offer a few benefits for the smoker who has recently quit. Most smokers experience weight gain after the nicotine cycle is over, or even reduced. Acomplia may help suppress the appetite in the same way that nictone does, helping to prevent weight gain before the appetite gets out of control.

Are There Side Effects of Acomplia?

Acomplia has been researched for only a few years and is a fairly new diet pill on the market. However, there are some side effects of using the drug and dieters are encouraged to discuss the drug and other options with a physician. Side effects may include:

• Anxiety

• Irritablity

• Depression

• Nauseau

• Headaches or migraines

• Insomnia

• Fainting and dizziness

• Sleep disorders

• Mood swings

Who Should not Take Acomplia?

Anyone who is hypersensitive to most drugs should not take Acomplia, as the powerful ingredients can be especially harmful for those with weak systems and increased sensitivity. Women who are pregnant or lactating should not take Acomplia, and those who are lactose intolerant may experience a reaction to the lactose found in Acomplia tablets.