I have taken this pill and it is wonderful. I had no side eeffcts, i.e. higher blood pressure. I had to go into the doctor once a month to make sure of this. I lost 50 lbs in 4 months and have kept it off 3 years after stopping Meridia. It is a great pill, and is not gimmicky. It gives you a chance to lose weight. I did add some exercise and somewhat healthier eating habits to it. Do not listen to people who say its a gimmick. It worked and has for thousands. The one downside to Meridia is the cost. For 15mg (i recommend this strenght) it cost $135 for 30 pills. If you can afford it, its worth it.