Leena Watts
Diet pills are a tempting quick fix for weight loss, but are any of them FDA approved? The short answer is yes, there are several FDA-approved diet pills on the market, including Wegovy, Zepbound, Saxenda, and Contrave. However, it's important to note that these pills are intended for use in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, and they may come with risks and side effects. In addition, the FDA does not review dietary or herbal supplements in the same way it does prescription medications, so caution should be exercised when purchasing over-the-counter weight loss pills, as they may contain unknown chemicals that can be dangerous.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of FDA-approved weight loss drugs | 11 |
| Examples of FDA-approved weight loss drugs | Wegovy, Zepbound, Contrave, Saxenda, Qsymia, Wellbutrin, Didrex, Tenuate, Adipex-P, ProFast, Mounjaro, Ozempic, Rybelsus |
| Dosage | Varies depending on the drug |
| Administration | Injection, oral tablet |
| Use | Long-term, short-term |
| Side effects | Oily discharge from the rectum, flatus with discharge, increased defecation, fecal incontinence |
| Dietary supplements reviewed by FDA | No |
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What You'll Learn
FDA-approved weight loss drugs
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several weight management medications for adults and children. These medications are intended to be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Here is a list of FDA-approved weight loss drugs:
Zepbound (Tirzepatide)
Zepbound is an injectable medication approved for adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition. It is a dual-acting glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which makes you feel full by reducing appetite and food intake. The recommended maintenance dosage of Zepbound is 5-15 mg, injected once weekly. In clinical trials, participants who dieted, exercised, and took Zepbound reported significant weight loss compared to those on a placebo.
Contrave
Contrave is another FDA-approved weight loss drug for adults who are overweight or have obesity. In clinical trials, participants who took Contrave for up to 56 weeks showed varying results. In one study, 40% of participants lost at least 5% of their body weight, while 20% lost at least 10%. The average weight loss across all studies ranged from 11 to 22 pounds. Contrave is typically taken differently each week for the first month, following a prescribed dosing schedule. It should not be taken with high-fat meals.
Orlistat (Xenical)
Orlistat is an FDA-approved weight management medication for children ages 12 and older.
Liraglutide (Saxenda)
Liraglutide is also approved by the FDA for weight management in children ages 12 and older.
Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia)
Phentermine-topiramate is another prescription medication approved for weight management in children from ages 12. Phentermine is typically approved by the FDA for short-term use, and its long-term safety and effectiveness have not been extensively studied.
Setmelanotide (IMCIVREE)
Setmelanotide is approved for children ages 6 and older with rare genetic disorders causing obesity. This medication is limited to those diagnosed with one of four specific rare genetic disorders confirmed by genetic testing.
It is important to note that weight management medications may have side effects and are not suitable for everyone. They should be used under medical supervision and in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle that includes physical activity and improved eating habits.
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Weight loss injections vs pills
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved certain medications for weight loss, including Contrave, Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Zepbound. Zepbound, Ozempic, and Wegovy are injectable medications, while Rybelsus is an oral tablet. Semaglutide is the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, and it is available in both oral tablet and injectable forms.
Weight loss injections and pills have their own advantages and considerations. In terms of effectiveness, a 2021 research review found that oral semaglutide tablets were as effective, or more effective, for weight loss compared to the injectable versions. However, it is important to note that not all semaglutides are FDA-cleared for weight loss, and more research is needed to accurately compare oral and injectable versions. Additionally, the oral tablets had a distinguishing feature that allowed for "similar or better efficacy and similar tolerability" compared to most injectable GLP-1 receptor agonists.
One advantage of oral tablets is that they do not require the use of needles, providing a more appealing option for individuals who are uncomfortable with injections. However, oral tablets may need to be taken daily, whereas injections like Zepbound are typically administered once weekly. The frequency of dosing can impact adherence, as individuals may find it challenging to stick to a treatment regimen that requires multiple doses per day. Additionally, oral medications may come with dietary limitations or restrictions, such as having to be taken on an empty stomach, which can reduce their convenience and appeal.
In contrast, injections like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound are part of a booming class of medicines known as GLP-1 agonists, which mimic the action of the GLP-1 hormone involved in regulating blood sugar and appetite. Injectable semaglutide has been found effective for weight loss, and it is important to rotate the injection site to prevent the development of scar tissue and ensure effective medication absorption.
While weight loss injections have been successful, there is a growing interest in developing oral weight loss medications as they are more convenient for patients and do not come with the challenges of injections, such as manufacturing costs and refrigeration requirements. However, experts suggest that injections are not going anywhere, as patient preferences vary. Some individuals may prefer the convenience of oral tablets, while others may opt for less frequent injections. Ultimately, the decision between weight loss injections and pills should be guided by healthcare providers, considering individual needs, preferences, and medical suitability.
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Weight loss drugs and their side effects
Weight loss drugs are typically used as part of a comprehensive obesity treatment plan, which includes a low-calorie diet and increased physical activity. However, these drugs often come with side effects that may cause discomfort for the patient. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal issues, including nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea, and heartburn. Other side effects may include gallbladder disease, an increased risk of fracture, and pancreatitis. In addition, women taking these medications need to be on reliable birth control. It is important to note that weight loss drugs are typically long-term commitments, and stopping the medication may result in rapid weight regain.
One example of an FDA-approved weight loss drug is Contrave, which has shown positive results in clinical trials. In one study, 40% of participants who took Contrave lost at least 5% of their body weight, and 20% lost at least 10%. The average weight loss across all four studies ranged from 11 to 22 pounds. However, Contrave also comes with side effects, and it should not be taken with high-fat meals.
Another FDA-approved weight loss drug is Zepbound, which is administered through injection. Zepbound has been shown to reduce appetite and food intake, leading to significant weight loss in individuals who are overweight or obese. The recommended maintenance dosage of Zepbound is 5-15 mg, injected once weekly, and the maximum dosage is 15 mg. Similar to other weight loss drugs, Zepbound may cause digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach.
Wegovy is another injectable weight loss drug that has shown promising results, with participants in a study losing more than 15% of their weight at the maximum dose. However, Wegovy should be stopped at least two months before trying to conceive, as it may affect fertility.
It is important to note that weight loss drugs may not be covered by insurance, and the cost can be significant. Additionally, they may not be suitable for everyone, and it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss eligibility and potential side effects before starting any medication.
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Weight loss drugs and their effectiveness
Weight loss is a challenging journey that requires a combination of healthy lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medical intervention. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, certain weight loss drugs have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for individuals struggling with obesity or overweight-related health conditions. These medications can be a helpful tool in weight management when used appropriately and under medical supervision.
The FDA has approved several prescription drugs for long-term weight loss, primarily aimed at individuals who are obese or significantly overweight with related health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. These medications are designed to be used in conjunction with a balanced, reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for optimal effectiveness.
One such FDA-approved medication is Zepbound (tirzepatide), which was approved in 2023. Zepbound is administered through weekly injections and works by activating certain intestinal hormones (GLP-1 and GIP) that reduce appetite and food intake. Clinical trials have shown statistically significant weight loss in individuals who combined Zepbound with diet and exercise, compared to those on a placebo.
Another FDA-approved weight loss drug is Wegovy (semaglutide), which was introduced in 2021. Similar to Zepbound, Wegovy is also administered through weekly injections and is intended for long-term weight management. Contrave is another prescription medication that has shown promising results in clinical trials, with participants losing up to 10% of their body weight.
It is important to note that weight loss medications are not a quick fix and should not be relied upon solely for sustainable results. Most over-the-counter weight loss supplements are not recommended due to potential serious side effects. Prescription weight loss drugs, on the other hand, can be effective when used alongside dietary changes and regular exercise, as they work by reducing appetite, decreasing fat absorption, or increasing metabolism. However, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before starting any medication to ensure safe and effective use.
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Weight loss drugs and their long-term impact
Weight loss drugs are designed to help people lose weight and maintain a healthy weight. They are typically prescribed by healthcare professionals as part of a weight-control program that includes a healthy eating plan and regular physical activity. While some weight loss drugs are designed for short-term use, others are intended for long-term use, which means patients may have to take them for the rest of their lives.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several drugs for weight loss and chronic weight management, including:
- Orlistat (Xenical, Alli)
- Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia)
- Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave)
- Liraglutide (Saxenda)
- Semaglutide (Wegovy)
- Tirzepatide (Zepbound)
- Setmelanotide (IMCIVREE)
These drugs work in different ways to help with weight loss. For example, Contrave is a combination of naltrexone and bupropion, which are thought to work on the hunger and reward centres in the brain. In clinical trials, participants who took Contrave in addition to a low-calorie diet and exercise regimen lost more weight than those who took a placebo. Similarly, Zepbound is a medication injected under the skin that activates receptors of hormones secreted from the intestine to reduce appetite and food intake. In clinical trials, participants who dieted, exercised, and took Zepbound reported statistically significant weight loss compared to those who took the placebo.
The long-term impact of weight loss drugs can vary depending on the individual and the specific drug they are taking. If a person has lost enough weight to improve their health and is not experiencing serious side effects, their healthcare provider may advise them to stay on the medication indefinitely. However, if they do not lose at least 5% of their starting weight after 12 weeks on the full dose of the medication, they may be advised to stop taking it or switch to a different treatment plan. Additionally, some weight loss drugs have been associated with severe side effects, and there is limited research on the safety and effectiveness of long-term use for certain medications. As a result, it is important for individuals to consult with their healthcare provider to discuss the potential risks and benefits before taking any weight loss medication.
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Frequently asked questions
Some FDA-approved diet pills include Wegovy, Zepbound, Saxenda, Contrave, and Qsymia.
The effectiveness of FDA-approved diet pills varies. In one study, 40% of participants who took Contrave lost at least 5% of their body weight, and 20% lost at least 10%. In another study, patients treated with Saxenda lost about 4.1% to 4.5% of their weight compared to a group treated with a placebo.
Yes, there are risks and side effects associated with taking any medication, including FDA-approved diet pills. It is important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking any weight-loss medication to understand the potential risks and ensure it is safe for you.
Dietary or herbal supplements are not reviewed by the FDA like prescription medicines, and the FDA recommends caution when purchasing OTC weight loss pills. However, the FDA did clear a medical device called Plenity in 2019 for people with a BMI of 24 to 40.
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