Prescribed to severely obese people, Acomplia works by blocking receptors called cannabinoid-1 receptors (CB1). These CB1 receptors are located throughout the body, including the brain, fat tissue, the digestive system, the liver and muscles.

The blocking action of Acomplia will reduce food cravings, thus decreasing appetite and food consumption. There is also evidence to suggest that users of medications containing rimonabant, the active ingredient in Acomplia, may improve their cholesterol profile.

Acomplia is typically prescribed to those who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more, or those with additional risk factors such as Type 2 Diabetes, or increased risk of heart disease.

It is recommended that is always be used in combination with a healthy diet and a regular exercise program.

However, there have recently been concerns about this drug in the UK, with the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) recommending that anyone taking anti-depressants or suffering ongoing major depression should not take products containing rimonabant.

There were reports of 364 psychiatric reactions among users, including 48 reports of depression, 16 reports of suicidal thoughts and one report of self-injury. Meanwhile, in the US, a committee advising the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has voted to ban the drug because of an increased risk of suicide.