Brenda Khan
Prescription diet pills are medications that can aid weight loss and are typically used alongside lifestyle and behavioural changes, such as healthy eating and increased physical activity. They are generally recommended for individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher or a BMI of 27 or higher if the person has weight-related health issues. These pills work by regulating hormones in the brain, digestive system, and adipose tissue to suppress appetite and cravings and promote a feeling of fullness. While prescription diet pills can be effective, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional and carefully consider potential side effects, interactions with other medications, and individual health factors before starting their use.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How they work | Regulating hormones in the brain, digestive system, and adipose tissue to suppress appetite and cravings and promote satiety. |
| Administration | Orally or as subcutaneous injections. |
| Effectiveness | Pills and injections are about equally effective. |
| Side effects | Nausea, constipation, headache, vomiting, dizziness, insomnia, dry mouth, and diarrhea. |
| Precautions | Should not be prescribed to patients with a seizure disorder or who take opioids for chronic pain. |
| Dosage | Start with a daily dose of one 8/90 mg tablet and gradually increase to four tablets a day. |
| Interactions | Should not be taken with MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate. |
| Timing | Should not be taken close to bedtime as it may prevent sleep. |
| Addiction | Short-term prescription appetite suppressants are controlled substances with addiction potential. |
| Individual factors | The amount of weight lost depends on the medication, overall health, and other individual factors. |
| BMI | Most medications are prescribed for a BMI of 30 or greater, or 27 or greater if the person has weight-related health conditions. |
| Health conditions | Appetite suppressants can worsen certain health conditions like high blood pressure, mood disorders, and glaucoma. |
| Lifestyle | Prescription medications are most effective when combined with lifestyle and behavior changes, including healthy eating and increased physical activity. |
| Weight loss | On average, adults who take prescription medications as part of a lifestyle program lose 3% to 12% more of their starting body weight than those in a lifestyle program without medication. |
| Pregnancy | Weight management medications should not be taken during pregnancy or when planning a pregnancy. |
| Serious side effects | If you do not lose at least 5% of your starting weight after 12 weeks on the full dose, your healthcare provider will probably advise you to stop taking it. |
| Storage | Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). |
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What You'll Learn
Common prescription diet pills and their side effects
Prescription diet pills, also known as appetite suppressants, are designed to help people with obesity lose weight. They work by reducing your appetite or making you feel full faster, so you consume fewer calories. These pills are typically part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes a healthy eating plan and exercise.
Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia®)
This is a pill that is FDA-approved for long-term use. It has been shown to be effective in helping people achieve weight loss.
Benzphetamine (Didrex®, Regimex®)
This is a short-term appetite suppressant, typically prescribed for up to 12 weeks. It is a controlled substance, which means it has addiction potential and should be used with caution.
Diethylpropion (Tenuate®, Tenuate Dospan®)
Diethylpropion is another short-term appetite suppressant that falls under the category of controlled substances. It should be used with caution due to its potential for addiction.
Phendimetrazine (Prelu-2®)
Phendimetrazine is a prescription diet pill that is similar to the previous two in terms of being a short-term appetite suppressant and a controlled substance with addiction potential.
Phentermine (Dipex-P®, Atti-Plex P®, Pro-Fast®)
Phentermine is also a short-term appetite suppressant that is only intended for prescribed use due to its potential side effects.
Common Side Effects of Prescription Diet Pills:
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Mood changes, such as depression or anxiety
- Abdominal pain
- Indigestion
It is important to note that these pills are typically prescribed for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher if they have weight-related health issues. They should be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional who can monitor progress and side effects and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
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How to take Orlistat
Orlistat is a medicine that can aid weight loss for people who are overweight or obese. It works by blocking chemicals (enzymes) in the gut that digest fat, preventing around a third of the fat consumed from being digested. The undigested fat is then passed out of the body.
Orlistat is available on prescription or over the counter. The recommended dosage schedule is the same for both prescription and over-the-counter treatments. It is typically one 120 mg capsule, three times a day, with each main meal containing fat. The capsule can be taken before, during, or up to an hour after the meal. It is important to take each capsule with food. Orlistat should not be taken more than three times a day unless advised by a medical professional.
The 60 mg capsules are available without a prescription from a pharmacy. The recommended dose is one capsule with each meal, up to three times a day. However, if a meal has very little fat or is skipped, the dose can be omitted.
It is important to note that Orlistat may interfere with the absorption of certain vitamins and nutrients. Therefore, it is recommended to take a multivitamin supplement at least two hours before or after taking Orlistat. Additionally, Orlistat can interfere with the absorption of some medications, including treatments for HIV/AIDS, ciclosporin, levothyroxine, amiodarone, and epilepsy medications. It may also affect the effectiveness of contraceptive pills if severe diarrhoea occurs. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional and disclose all current medications and supplements before taking Orlistat.
Orlistat is not suitable for everyone. It should not be taken by individuals who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as its effects on pregnancy are unknown. Individuals with cholestasis, a condition where bile does not flow properly from the liver to the duodenum, should also refrain from taking Orlistat. Furthermore, those with malabsorption syndrome or gallbladder problems should avoid Orlistat due to its interference with fat absorption.
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How to take Phentermine-topiramate
Phentermine-topiramate is a prescription appetite suppressant that comes in the form of extended-release capsules taken by mouth. It is typically taken once a day in the morning, with or without food, and a glass of water. It is important to follow the directions on the prescription label carefully, taking the medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
Your doctor will likely start you on a low dose, increasing it after 14 days if necessary. It is important to take the medication at the same time every day and to be consistent. Phentermine-topiramate may be habit-forming, so it is crucial not to take a larger dose or use it more frequently than prescribed. If you miss a dose, skip it and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
This medication is typically used for short-term weight loss, usually up to 12 weeks (three months). It is important to combine the medication with a low-calorie diet and exercise to effectively treat obesity. Phentermine-topiramate should not be taken for longer than recommended, as it will only help control your weight while you are taking it. If you have not lost a certain amount of weight after 12 weeks, your doctor may advise you to stop taking the medication or adjust your dose.
It is important to be aware of the potential side effects of Phentermine-topiramate. Common side effects include mood changes, feelings of low self-worth, loss of interest in things you once enjoyed, and thoughts about hurting yourself. More serious side effects may include panic attacks, agitation, irritability, anxiety, depression, aggressive behaviour, mania, and suicidal thoughts. If you experience any unusual problems or side effects, it is crucial to contact your doctor immediately.
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FDA-approved prescription appetite suppressants
Prescription appetite suppressants can help with weight loss for people with obesity. They work by blocking or increasing specific hormones, neurotransmitters, and/or peptides to make you feel less hungry or full faster when you eat. These medications are recommended for people with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher if the person has weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or joint pain.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several prescription appetite suppressants for long-term use in adults and children ages 12 and older. These include orlistat (Xenical, Alli), phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia), naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave), liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza), semaglutide (Wegovy), and tirzepatide (Zepbound). Another medication, setmelanotide (IMCIVREE), is approved for use in adults and children aged 6 years and older with rare genetic disorders causing obesity.
It is important to note that prescription appetite suppressants can have side effects, and it is recommended to discuss these with a healthcare provider before starting any medication. Short-term prescription appetite suppressants, in particular, require caution due to their potential for severe side effects, addiction, and interaction with other medications. Some common side effects of appetite suppressants include constipation, abdominal pain, indigestion, rapid or irregular heartbeat, mood changes, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and dizziness.
The dosage of prescription appetite suppressants varies depending on the specific medication. For example, orlistat is typically taken as one 120 mg capsule three times a day with each main meal containing fat. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed the prescribed amount to avoid potential health risks. Additionally, these medications should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise plan to achieve effective and sustainable weight loss.
It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any prescription medication, including appetite suppressants, to ensure they are safe and suitable for your individual needs and health status. They can guide you on the appropriate dosage, potential side effects, and any necessary lifestyle changes to ensure optimal results and minimize health risks.
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What to avoid when taking prescription diet pills
When taking prescription diet pills, it is important to be aware of potential side effects and health risks. Here are some key things to avoid:
Do not take diet pills without medical advice: Prescription diet pills are not suitable for everyone. Discuss your health issues, medications, and family medical history with your doctor before starting any medication. Be sure to disclose any substance use disorder (SUD) or family history of SUD.
Avoid taking diet pills during pregnancy: Weight management medications are not recommended during pregnancy or when planning a pregnancy.
Do not rely solely on diet pills for weight loss: Prescription medications are most effective when combined with lifestyle changes, including a healthy eating plan, reduced-calorie diet, and regular physical activity. Even with medication, weight loss takes time and effort.
Do not ignore side effects: Short-term prescription diet pills, in particular, can have severe side effects, including rapid heartbeat, mood changes, nausea, abdominal pain, and constipation. If you experience any side effects, discuss them with your healthcare provider immediately.
Avoid interactions with other medications: Some diet pills can interact with antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and other drugs. Be sure to disclose all medications you are taking to your healthcare provider.
Do not exceed the recommended dosage: Prescription diet pills should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider. Gradual increases in dosage may be recommended, but never exceed the prescribed amount.
It is important to remember that prescription diet pills are not a magic bullet for weight loss. They can be a helpful tool when used appropriately and under medical supervision, but they should be combined with healthy lifestyle choices for optimal and sustainable results.
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Frequently asked questions
Prescription diet pills are medications that can help with weight loss for people with obesity. They work by regulating hormones in the brain, digestive system, and adipose tissue to suppress appetite and cravings and promote satiety.
The way you take prescription diet pills will depend on the specific medication. Some medications are administered orally, while others are given as subcutaneous injections. Always follow the directions on your prescription label or the package label carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
Yes, there can be side effects associated with prescription diet pills. Common side effects include nausea, constipation, headache, vomiting, dizziness, insomnia, dry mouth, and diarrhea. It is important to discuss side effects with your healthcare provider before starting a medication and to follow their instructions. Some precautions to be aware of include not taking weight management medications during pregnancy or if planning a pregnancy, and not sharing your medication with anyone else.
