Dante Carrillo
There are prescription diet pills available, known as appetite suppressants, which work by blocking or increasing specific hormones, neurotransmitters, and/or peptides. These pills are designed to help people lose weight and are typically recommended for those with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher who also have weight-related health problems, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes. Some of the most common prescription diet pills include Contrave, Qsymia, Wegovy, and Saxenda. These pills are generally more effective when combined with a nutritious diet and exercise.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To help with weight loss for people who have obesity |
| Mechanism | Blocking or increasing specific hormones, neurotransmitters and/or peptides to reduce appetite or make you feel full faster |
| Eligibility | Adults with a BMI of 27 or greater, and weight-related health problems such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes |
| Effectiveness | Studies show that prescription appetite suppressants help people achieve weight loss of 5% or more of their starting body weight. Some people taking prescription weight management medications lose 10% or more of their starting weight. |
| Side effects | Abnormal sensations, dizziness, altered taste, insomnia, constipation, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, headache, diarrhea, seizures |
| Examples | Liraglutide (Saxenda), Semaglutide (Wegovy), Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave), Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia), Benzphetamine (Didrex), Diethylpropion (Tenuate) |
| Cost | Pills are generally more affordable than injectables |
| Availability | Prescription-only |
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What You'll Learn
Prescription weight-loss pills and their effectiveness
Several prescription weight-loss medications are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for long-term use. These include orlistat (Xenical, Alli), phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia), naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave), liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza), semaglutide (Wegovy), and tirzepatide (Zepbound). Four of these medications—orlistat, phentermine-topiramate, naltrexone-bupropion, and liraglutide—are approved for adults and children aged 12 and older. Zepbound, approved in November 2023, is intended for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Another medication, setmelanotide (IMCIVREE), is limited to individuals with one of four specific rare genetic disorders.
Prescription weight-loss medications can work in different ways. Some may help you feel less hungry or full sooner, while others may make it harder for your body to absorb fat from food. Weight management medications are intended for individuals with health problems related to being overweight or having obesity. Generally, healthcare providers recommend these medications for people with a BMI of 30 or higher or a BMI greater than 27 with weight-related health issues such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
Research indicates that prescription weight management medications can help some individuals lose 10% or more of their starting weight. Results vary by medication and individual, with over half of the participants in some studies losing 10% or more of their initial weight with certain medications. Losing 5% to 10% of body weight can lead to health improvements, including lower blood sugar, blood pressure, and triglyceride levels, as well as reduced joint pain and sleep apnea symptoms. Most weight loss occurs within the first six months of starting the medication.
It is important to note that the side effects of prescription weight-loss medications may sometimes outweigh their benefits. Therefore, these medications should not be taken solely to improve physical appearance. Additionally, determining the right medication for an individual is not always straightforward, as the market is rapidly changing, and each person's circumstances are unique. A healthcare professional can assess a patient's lifestyle, BMI, progress, and side effects to determine the most suitable medication and make adjustments as needed.
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Appetite suppressants and their side effects
Appetite suppressants, also known as "diet pills," are a type of weight-loss medication that affects your brain's urge to eat. They work by reducing or curbing hunger pangs or making you feel fuller faster with less food. As a result, you eat less, consume fewer calories, and lose weight.
Prescription appetite suppressants are typically recommended for people with obesity, which is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Healthcare providers may also suggest them for individuals with a BMI greater than 27 who have weight-related health issues such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.
There are several prescription appetite suppressants available, including:
- Liraglutide (Saxenda®)
- Semaglutide (Wegovy®)
- Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave®)
- Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia®)
- Benzphetamine (Didrex®, Regimex®)
- Diethylpropion (Tenuate®, Tenuate Dospan®)
- Phendimetrazine (Prelu-2®)
- Phentermine (Dipex-P®, Atti-Plex P®, Pro-Fast®)
While these medications can aid in weight loss, they also come with side effects that vary depending on the specific suppressant used. Some common side effects include:
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Indigestion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Increased blood pressure
- Mood disorders
- Glaucoma
It is important to consult a healthcare provider before taking any appetite suppressants, as they can interact with other medications and may have severe side effects or addiction potential, particularly in the case of short-term prescription appetite suppressants.
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FDA-approved prescription weight-loss medications
Prescription weight-loss medications are designed for people who struggle with their weight and are recommended by healthcare providers only when modified eating plans and increased physical activity have not helped with weight loss. These medications work in different ways, such as helping you feel less hungry or full sooner, or making it harder for your body to absorb fat.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved six prescription drugs for long-term weight management: orlistat (Xenical, Alli), phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia), naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave), liraglutide (Saxenda), semaglutide (Wegovy), and tirzepatide (Zepbound). Four of these medications are approved for adults and children aged 12 and older. Orlistat, also known as Alli, is the only FDA-approved over-the-counter medicine for weight loss.
Other FDA-approved prescription appetite suppressants include Benzphetamine (Didrex, Regimex), Diethylpropion (Tenuate, Tenuate Dospan), Phendimetrazine (Prelu-2), and Phentermine (Dipex-P, Atti-Plex P, Pro-Fast, and others). These medications are approved for short-term use only, typically up to 12 weeks.
It is important to note that weight management medications are not suitable for everyone with a high BMI. Before taking any prescription weight-loss medication, individuals should consult their healthcare provider to assess their individual needs and risks. Additionally, these medications may have side effects and can interact with other medications, so it is crucial to discuss any potential risks and benefits with a healthcare professional.
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Prescription weight-loss pills and their cost
Prescription weight-loss pills are typically recommended for people with obesity or a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. They can also be prescribed for individuals with a BMI greater than 27 who have weight-related health issues such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or joint pain. These pills work by suppressing appetite, making you feel less hungry, or feel full faster.
There are several prescription weight-loss pills available that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for long-term use. These include:
- Liraglutide (Saxenda®): This is an injectable medication that suppresses appetite. Saxenda is one of the more expensive weight-loss medications, with a retail price ranging from $1,200 to $1,500 per month.
- Semaglutide (Wegovy®): Semaglutide is also an injectable medication that helps with weight loss. The cheapest form of this medication is compounded semaglutide, which can be obtained through Hers for $199 per month with a 12-month plan paid upfront.
- Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave®): This is a pill that combines an opioid antagonist with an atypical antidepressant to help manage appetite and cravings. There are currently no generic alternatives to Contrave.
- Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia®): This pill is used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity to promote weight loss and is suitable for adults and children aged 12 and older.
- Orlistat (Xenical, Alli): This weight-loss medication works by making it harder for your body to absorb fat from food.
- Tirzepatide (Zepbound): This medication is approved for weight loss treatment in adults and children aged 12 and older.
- Setmelanotide (IMCIVREE): This medication is specifically for individuals with rare genetic disorders and works by decreasing appetite and increasing metabolism.
The cost of prescription weight-loss pills can vary depending on the specific medication and how you access it. Prices can range from $69 to $2,000 per month. Insurance coverage can significantly impact the cost, with some people paying as little as $0 to $25 with insurance and savings cards. Manufacturer coupons and pharmacy discount cards or membership programs can also help offset the cost of these medications.
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Prescription weight-loss pills and their availability over the counter
Prescription weight-loss pills are medications that can help with weight loss for people struggling with obesity or overweight. They work by suppressing appetite, making people feel less hungry or full faster, or making it harder for the body to absorb fat. These pills are meant to be used alongside lifestyle changes such as healthy eating and increased physical activity.
The decision to prescribe weight-loss medication is based on a person's Body Mass Index (BMI) and their weight-related health problems. People with a BMI of 30 or higher are generally considered obese, while those with a BMI between 25 and 30 are considered overweight. Healthcare providers may also consider other factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or joint pain when deciding whether to prescribe weight-loss medication.
There are several prescription weight-loss pills that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for long-term use. These include:
- Orlistat (Xenical, Alli)
- Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia)
- Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave)
- Liraglutide (Saxenda)
- Semaglutide (Wegovy)
- Tirzepatide (Zepbound)
Other prescription weight-loss pills are approved for short-term use, typically up to 12 weeks. These include:
- Benzphetamine (Didrex, Regimex)
- Diethylpropion (Tenuate, Tenuate Dospan)
- Phendimetrazine (Prelu-2)
- Phentermine (Dipex-P, Atti-Plex P, Pro-Fast)
It is important to note that prescription weight-loss pills may have side effects, and they should be taken only under the supervision of a healthcare provider. They may also interact with other medications or cause health problems.
Currently, the only over-the-counter weight-loss medication approved by the FDA is Alli (orlistat). Other over-the-counter products are considered supplements and are not regulated by the FDA. It is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before using any over-the-counter weight-loss products to ensure safety and effectiveness.
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Frequently asked questions
Prescription diet pills are medications that can help with weight loss. They work in different ways, such as by reducing hunger or blocking the absorption of fat in the body.
Prescription diet pills are typically recommended for people with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher who also have weight-related health problems, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
Prescription diet pills can have side effects, and experts are concerned that in some cases, these side effects may outweigh the benefits. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any prescription diet pills to assess the potential risks and benefits for your individual situation.
