Leena Watts
Diet pills, also known as appetite suppressants, are a type of weight-loss medication for people with obesity (a body mass index or BMI over 30). They affect how your body and brain experience appetite and hunger by triggering hormonal responses that interrupt the brain's hunger signals. Appetite suppressants can make you feel less hungry or make you feel full faster after eating less food, resulting in reduced calorie intake and weight loss. While these pills can be effective in suppressing appetite, they often come with side effects and potential dangers, and it is recommended to consult a doctor before use.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How they work | Appetite suppressants trigger hormonal responses that interrupt the brain's hunger signals and make you feel full faster. |
| Effectiveness | Appetite suppressants may aid weight loss, but there is little evidence that they are safe and effective. |
| Types | Prescription appetite suppressants include Phentermine-topiramate, Benzphetamine, Diethylpropion, Phendimetrazine, Phentermine, Semaglutide, and Tirzepatide. Over-the-counter options include supplements containing Synephrine, Bitter orange, Hoodia gordonii, Acacia fiber, Guar gum, and Chromium picolinate. |
| Side effects | Appetite suppressants can have dangerous side effects and have even been linked to deaths. Side effects may include headaches, nausea, increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and impaired liver function. |
| Precautions | Appetite suppressants should be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. They are not suitable for everyone, especially those with certain medical conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease. |
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What You'll Learn
Appetite suppressants' effect on the brain and body
Appetite suppressants are a type of weight-loss medication, sometimes referred to as diet pills, that are intended for people with obesity, usually defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. They are designed to affect how the body and brain experience appetite and hunger, making individuals feel less hungry or feel full faster after eating smaller portions. This can result in reduced calorie intake and subsequent weight loss.
Appetite suppressants can be prescribed by a doctor or purchased over the counter. Prescription appetite suppressants include phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia), benzphetamine (Didrex, Regimex), diethylpropion (Tenuate, Tenuate Dospan), phendimetrazine (Prelu-2), and phentermine (Dipex-P, Atti-Plex P, Pro-Fast, etc.). These drugs are controlled substances with addiction potential and should be used with caution. Over-the-counter options include supplements containing acacia fiber, guar gum, chromium picolinate, and bitter orange, although there is limited evidence supporting their effectiveness.
Prescription appetite suppressants work by targeting the brain and central nervous system. For example, drugs like Contrave reduce cravings by affecting the reward centers in the brain, while stimulants like phentermine likely affect weight by reducing appetite and increasing calorie burn. Another prescription drug, setmelanotide (Imcivree), is approved for people with obesity caused by rare genetic conditions and works by targeting parts of the brain involved in appetite and fullness.
Some newer drugs, such as Wegovy, Zepbound, and Saxenda, mimic the effects of the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) hormone, which is naturally produced in the intestines. By taking these drugs, individuals experience increased levels of GLP-1, triggering effects on appetite and weight. Additionally, Zepbound also mimics a second hormone, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide, which has additional impacts on appetite.
Other appetite suppressants work by affecting hormones and neurotransmitters. For instance, garcinia cambogia pills contain hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which may reduce appetite by increasing serotonin levels in the brain and reducing carbohydrate metabolism. Similarly, Hoodia gordonii, a succulent plant traditionally used by indigenous people in southern Africa, is believed to be linked to a compound called P57 or glycoside, which may impact the central nervous system and decrease appetite. However, there is limited evidence supporting the effectiveness of Hoodia gordonii in weight loss or appetite suppression.
It is important to note that appetite suppressants are most effective when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. They should not be relied upon as a sole method for weight loss, and individuals considering their use should consult with a healthcare provider to assess their suitability and monitor for any potential side effects.
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Natural appetite suppressants
While there are many natural appetite suppressants on the market, there is little evidence that they work. Some can even be dangerous. In reality, eating and weight are a lot more complex than simply taking a natural "hunger suppressant pill".
Some natural appetite suppressants include:
- Fenugreek: A herb from the legume family. Fenugreek seeds contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, which can increase feelings of fullness and lead to lower food intake.
- Glucomannan: A viscous fiber that may reduce body weight and fat, especially in people with high body weight, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
- Gymnema sylvestre: A plant that contains 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), a compound that is converted into serotonin in the brain. An increase in serotonin levels may help suppress appetite.
- Griffonia simplicifolia: A plant that contains 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), a compound that is converted into serotonin in the brain. An increase in serotonin levels may help suppress appetite.
- Caralluma fimbriata: An herb that may suppress appetite and manage obesity.
- Green tea: Catechins in green tea, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), may boost metabolism and reduce fat.
- Caffeine: Caffeine is a stimulant that increases fat burning and suppresses appetite.
- Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA): A type of fat present in some animal fats and as supplements. CLA supplements might help improve body composition and reduce body fat and obesity, but more studies are needed.
- Garcinia cambogia: A fruit that is also known as Garcinia gummi-gutta.
- Bitter orange: Bitter orange supplements are marketed to promote weight loss by reducing appetite and are available over the counter.
- Hoodia gordonii: A succulent plant traditionally used by indigenous people in southern Africa as an appetite suppressant.
It is important to note that some of these natural appetite suppressants may have side effects, and it is always recommended to consult a doctor or healthcare professional before taking any supplements.
In addition to these natural appetite suppressants, there are also lifestyle changes that can help suppress appetite, such as:
- Eating more fiber and protein: Foods high in protein and fiber can help you feel fuller for longer and suppress appetite.
- Getting enough sleep: Lack of sleep can increase stress levels, which can stimulate your appetite.
- Exercising: Exercise releases endorphins that can reduce stress and improve your mood, helping to curb stress eating. It also suppresses hunger hormones.
- Drinking more water: Water can help fill you up and keep you hydrated.
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Prescription appetite suppressants
There are several prescription appetite suppressants that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for long-term use. These include Liraglutide (Saxenda®), which is administered through subcutaneous injection. Semaglutide (Wegovy®) is another long-term prescription appetite suppressant that comes in the form of a weekly self-injection. Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave®), a pill, and Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia®) are also FDA-approved for long-term use.
It is important to note that prescription appetite suppressants are not a standalone solution for weight loss. They are most effective when combined with a reduced-calorie eating plan and regular physical activity. Additionally, they may have side effects, and it is crucial to discuss these with a healthcare provider before starting any medication. Short-term prescription appetite suppressants, such as Benzphetamine (Didrex®, Regimex®), Diethylpropion (Tenuate®, Tenuate Dospan®), Phendimetrazine (Prelu-2®), and Phentermine (Adipex-P®, Lomaira®, Dipex-P®, Atti-Plex P®, Pro-Fast®), have addiction potential and can be dangerous if not used as prescribed.
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Side effects of appetite suppressants
Appetite suppressants, also known as "diet pills", are a type of weight-loss medication that affects your brain's urge to eat. They are intended for people with a high body mass index (BMI) and chronic, weight-related health problems. While these medications can be effective in reducing appetite and promoting weight loss, they also carry potential side effects and health risks.
One of the risks associated with short-term appetite suppressants is the potential for misuse or overuse, especially if an individual has a history of substance abuse. Additionally, some appetite suppressants can interact with other medications, such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before starting an appetite suppressant to ensure it is safe and suitable for your specific needs.
The side effects of appetite suppressants can vary depending on the specific medication. Some common side effects include constipation, abdominal pain, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. More severe side effects may include rapid or irregular heartbeat, mood changes such as depression or anxiety, cognitive changes like agitation, delirium, or psychosis, and impaired liver function.
In rare cases, appetite suppressants have been linked to reports of heart attack, seizure, stroke, and even death. They can also worsen certain health conditions such as high blood pressure, mood disorders, and glaucoma. It is important to note that these medications are not recommended for individuals with specific health conditions, including heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, glaucoma, an overactive thyroid, liver disease, or a history of eating disorders.
While appetite suppressants can be beneficial for some individuals under medical supervision, it is essential to be cautious and informed about the potential side effects and risks associated with their use. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new medication or supplement, especially those aimed at weight loss.
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Effectiveness of appetite suppressants
Appetite suppressants are a type of weight-loss medication, often referred to as diet pills, for people with obesity (BMI over 30). They work by making you feel less hungry or feel full faster, thus reducing your calorie intake and promoting weight loss. Prescription appetite suppressants have been shown to help people lose 3%-12% of their body weight over a year, with an average weight loss of 5% or more.
There are several prescription appetite suppressants available, including Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia®), Benzphetamine (Didrex®, Regimex®), Diethylpropion (Tenuate®, Tenuate Dospan®), Phendimetrazine (Prelu-2®), and Phentermine (Dipex-P®, Atti-Plex P®, Pro-Fast®). These short-term appetite suppressants are controlled substances and can be dangerous if not used as intended. They may also have side effects such as an irregular heartbeat.
Long-term prescription appetite suppressants are generally considered safe if taken as directed, but they may interact with other medications and can worsen certain health conditions. For instance, Zepbound and Wegovy, which are taken as weekly injections, may cause serious digestive problems due to food staying in the stomach for longer periods.
Over-the-counter (OTC) appetite suppressants are also available, but there is little evidence to support their effectiveness. For example, supplements containing Hoodia gordonii, a succulent plant traditionally used by indigenous people in southern Africa, have not been shown to impact body weight or calorie intake. Similarly, while Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) has been shown to reduce appetite in animal studies, it has not demonstrated the same effect in humans.
Some natural appetite suppressants include drinking more water, consuming protein or fibre-rich foods, and eating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These strategies can help control appetite and manage weight without the need for dietary supplements.
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Frequently asked questions
Appetite suppressants are a type of weight-loss medication that can make you feel less hungry or make you feel full faster after eating less food.
Appetite suppressants trigger hormonal responses that interrupt the brain's signals that tell you that you feel hungry and that it's time to eat. They can also make you feel full more quickly once you begin to eat.
Some prescription appetite suppressants include Benzphetamine (Didrex®, Regimex®), Diethylpropion (Tenuate®, Tenuate Dospan®), Phendimetrazine (Prelu-2®), Phentermine (Adipex-P®, Dipex-P®, Atti-Plex P®, Pro-Fast®), and Orlistat (Xenical).
Yes, there are some over-the-counter supplements marketed as appetite suppressants, such as Garcinia Cambogia, Bitter Orange, and Hoodia Gordonii. However, the effectiveness of these supplements in reducing appetite is not well-established.
Appetite suppressants may have side effects and risks. For example, prescription appetite suppressants are controlled substances with addiction potential. Over-the-counter supplements may also cause adverse effects like headaches, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. Additionally, there are safety concerns with illegal or unregulated diet pills purchased online.
