Researchers unveiled a pill that suppresses the world’s leading killers, overeating and smoking. The drug, called rimonabant, is being perceived as a potential lifesaver that can reduce a wide range of risk factors for diabetes and heart disease.

Studies showed that the drug decreased levels of triglycerides, dangerous blood fats, and small dense LDL, the so-called "bad cholesterol," and C-reactive protein, a dangerous sign of inflammation of the arteries. Rimonabant was also shown to improve the metabolic syndrome that signals impending diabetes, heart disease and raised HDL levels, which protect the heart.

Rimonabant is designed to quiet the appetite triggers of the endocannabinoid system; the alarms activated by pot smoking and alcohol consumption that lead people to crave munchies when they’re under the influence. Not only does it appear to suppress cravings, but it may also prevent fat cells from storing fat.

In a study, participants included 1,036 patients taking a 20-milligram dose each day for a year to help their overweight and obesity problems. Results showed they lost almost 20 pounds over one year and trimmed three inches from their waistlines. Patients who took the drug had a 23 percent increase in HDL and a 15 percent decrease in triglycerides.

Side effects that occurred in both studies included dizziness and nausea.

With an estimated 50 million Americans diagnosed to have metabolic syndrome, a combustible mix of high blood pressure, pre-diabetic glucose intolerance, high triglycerides and low HDL, experts are calling the discovery of this drug great news.

USA Today March 10, 2004