Effect of sibutramine on intraocular pressure

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluated the effects of sibutramine on intraocular pressure (IOP) and body-mass index (BMI).

Methods: Thirty obese females (body-mass index >30 kg/m2) treated with sibutramine (10 mg/day) plus diet restriction for 3 months were included in the study. IOP, BMI, and blood biochemical parameters were measured at the beginning and end of the treatment. Results were evaluated statistically by paired t-test, analysis of variance, and least-significant difference test.

Results: A statistically significant decrease was observed in the mean body-mass index (p < 0.001) and serum triglyceride (p < 0.001), while a statistically insignificant increase was observed in IOP (p = 0.54).

Conclusion: While sibutramine provided an effective means for weight loss, it caused a slight increase in IOP, although this was not statistically significant. Nevertheless, it is prudent to monitor IOP in selected obese patients treated with sibutramine.