Dante Carrillo
Prescription weight-loss medications are available and can be beneficial for those struggling to reach their target weight through diet and exercise alone. These medications are typically recommended for individuals with obesity, defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or for those with a BMI of at least 27 who have weight-related health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. The most commonly prescribed weight-loss pill is Qsymia, which combines phentermine with the seizure/migraine drug topiramate. Other prescription weight-loss pills include Wegovy (semaglutide), liraglutide, and naltrexone-bupropion. These medications can help reduce appetite, decrease cravings, and make individuals feel full sooner. While prescription weight-loss pills can be effective, they are not meant for everyone, and it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to assess the potential risks and benefits for your specific situation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness | Prescription weight-loss pills are most effective when combined with a nutritious diet and routine exercise. |
| Best pill | Qsymia is likely the most effective prescription weight-loss pill. |
| Who can take them | Prescription weight-loss pills are for people with obesity, defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. |
| Who shouldn't take them | Women who might become pregnant should not take Qsymia. |
| Side effects | Side effects of weight-loss pills include abnormal sensations, dizziness, altered taste, insomnia, constipation, and dry mouth. |
| Alternatives | Weight-loss medication can also be administered via injection. |
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What You'll Learn
Effectiveness and side effects
The effectiveness of prescription diet pills varies from person to person, but studies have shown that they can help people achieve weight loss of 5% or more of their starting body weight. In some cases, participants have lost 10% or more of their starting weight. The most effective pill for many people is Qsymia, a combination of phentermine and topiramate, which reduces appetite and causes weight loss in several ways, including helping you feel full, making foods taste less appealing, and burning more calories. In initial studies, Qsymia helped about 70% of adults lose at least 5% of their body weight after 1 year, with close to 50% of participants losing at least 10%.
Prescription weight-loss pills are most effective when combined with a nutritious diet and routine exercise. Weight loss of 5% to 10% of your starting body weight may help improve your health by lowering blood sugar, blood pressure, and triglyceride levels, as well as improving other health problems related to being overweight, such as joint pain and sleep apnea.
Prescription diet pills do come with side effects and risks, and it is important to have a conversation with your prescriber about the potential dangers. Side effects of short-term prescription appetite suppressants that are controlled substances include rapid or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia or arrhythmia). Other less common but more serious side effects include an allergic reaction, pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and kidney damage. Some people may also develop an immune system reaction to certain medications.
If you are not losing weight after 12 weeks on the full dose of your medication, ask your health care professional whether you should stop taking it. It is important to discuss any other medications you are taking, including supplements and vitamins, when considering weight management medications, as they may have harmful interactions with other medications.
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Lifestyle changes
While prescription weight-loss pills can be effective, they work best when combined with lifestyle changes. Here are some detailed suggestions for lifestyle changes to aid weight loss:
Diet
Making small changes to your diet can have a significant impact on your weight loss journey. Start by cutting down on foods high in sugar and fat. Swap sugary cereals for wholegrain alternatives, and opt for water instead of sugary drinks. You can add slices of lemon or lime to your water for flavour. Eating at least five portions of fresh, canned, or frozen fruit and vegetables per day is also beneficial. Reading food labels can help you make healthier choices—look for products with more green colour coding than amber and red. Keeping a food diary for a few days can help you identify areas where you can improve your diet.
Exercise
Increasing your physical activity is crucial for weight loss. The NHS recommends getting active for at least 150 minutes per week, which can be broken down into shorter sessions. You can follow instructor-led workouts from home, such as dance or yoga.
Sleep
Getting enough sleep is essential for maintaining a healthy weight. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
Stress Management
Stress can impact weight management, so finding healthy ways to manage it is vital. This may include practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.
Remember, you don't have to implement all these changes at once. Start with small, gradual changes and build from there. Combining these lifestyle modifications with prescription weight-loss pills, if advised by your healthcare provider, can enhance your chances of achieving your desired weight loss.
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Drug combinations
Weight loss drugs may be an option for people with obesity, defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Doctors may also prescribe the drugs if a patient's BMI is at least 27 and they have weight-related health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Prescription weight-loss drugs are a popular and effective treatment for obesity and related health problems.
Prescription weight-loss pills are most effective when combined with a nutritious diet and routine exercise. The most effective pill for many people is Qsymia, a combination of phentermine and the seizure/migraine drug topiramate. Phentermine curbs your appetite, while topiramate causes weight loss in several ways, including helping you feel full, making foods taste less appealing, and burning more calories. Qsymia is a pill taken once daily and is suitable for people 12 years and older. In initial studies, Qsymia helped about 70% of adults lose at least 5% of their body weight after 1 year. Close to 50% of participants lost at least 10% of their body weight.
Other prescription weight-loss pills include Contrave, which combines naltrexone and bupropion. The active ingredients in Contrave work together to reduce appetite and food cravings. In initial studies, more than 40% of adults who took Contrave for 1 year lost at least 5% of their initial body weight. More than 20% lost at least 10%.
Prescription weight-loss medications should not be combined with other products intended for weight loss unless prescribed by a healthcare professional. People taking certain weight-loss medications have reported having suicidal thoughts or actions, and the FDA is investigating this. Weight-loss medications are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women as they may harm the fetus.
There are also injectable medications available for weight loss, such as Wegovy, a brand name for semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It was FDA-approved in 2021 for use in adults and children aged 12 years or more with obesity or some adults with excess weight and weight-related medical problems. The dose must be increased gradually over 16 to 20 weeks to arrive at the 2.4 mg dosage. This progression can help to alleviate side effects, which include gastrointestinal symptoms, headache, dizziness, and fatigue. Liraglutide is another daily injectable medication that acts on hormones that send signals from the gut to the brain to make the patient feel full quicker and decrease hunger signals. Doses start at 0.6 mg to 3 mg a day. Some patients may lose 5–10% of body weight, especially with the higher dose of liraglutide. Side effects include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, headache, decreased appetite, dyspepsia, fatigue, dizziness, abdominal pain, increased lipase, and renal insufficiency.
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Who are they for?
Prescription weight-loss pills are intended for individuals who struggle to achieve their target weight through diet and exercise alone. They are designed to complement a nutritious diet and regular exercise routine, enhancing their effects.
These pills are most commonly recommended for individuals with obesity, defined as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher. For adults with a height of 5 feet and 8 inches, this equates to a weight of 197 pounds or more. Additionally, prescription weight-loss pills may be prescribed to individuals with a BMI of at least 27 who also have weight-related health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or type 2 diabetes.
The decision to start prescription weight-loss medication is a personal one and should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional. It is important to consider potential risks, side effects, and cost. Some individuals may experience abnormal sensations, dizziness, altered taste, insomnia, constipation, or dry mouth as side effects.
Prescription weight-loss pills are not suitable for everyone. Those with certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled hypertension, coronary artery disease, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, or sensitivity to stimulants, may be advised against taking these medications. Additionally, women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should consult their doctor before taking these medications, as some pills may interfere with oral birth control or pose risks during pregnancy.
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Risks and considerations
While prescription weight-loss pills can be beneficial for some people, there are several risks and considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to understand that these pills are not a replacement for a healthy diet and regular exercise. Following a nutritious diet and staying physically active are crucial components of any weight-loss journey, and medications should be used alongside these lifestyle changes.
Secondly, different prescription weight-loss pills have varying side effects, and it is essential to discuss these risks with your healthcare provider. For example, Qsymia, a combination of phentermine and topiramate, has been found to be effective in helping adults lose weight. However, phentermine is an amphetamine that carries a risk of addiction or abuse, so it is classified as a controlled substance. Women who might become pregnant should also exercise caution, as Qsymia may require additional measures such as birth control and regular pregnancy tests. Other weight-loss medications may have side effects such as abnormal sensations, dizziness, altered taste, insomnia, constipation, dry mouth, gastrointestinal symptoms, headache, fatigue, and allergic reactions.
Thirdly, it is crucial to recognize that weight-loss medications are not suitable for everyone. Healthcare professionals typically consider factors such as health goals, personal preferences, medical history, and Body Mass Index (BMI) when determining whether to prescribe these medications. Weight-loss pills may interact with other medications, such as blood thinners, increasing the risk of uncontrolled bleeding. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled hypertension, coronary artery disease, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, and sensitivity to stimulants, may contraindicate the use of weight-loss pills.
Lastly, cost is an essential factor to consider when exploring prescription weight-loss pills. Pills are generally more affordable than injectables, but the cost of medication can still be a significant consideration, especially when combined with the expenses of a healthy diet and exercise program. It is worth discussing the financial implications with your healthcare provider to find a treatment plan that aligns with your budget and lifestyle.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, prescription diet pills are available, but they are most effective when combined with a nutritious diet and exercise.
Some prescription diet pills include Qsymia, Wegovy, Ozempic, Bydureon BCise, and Liraglutide.
Prescription diet pills 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.
Prescription diet pills are suitable for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher who also have weight-related health issues such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
Side effects vary depending on the medication but may include abnormal sensations, dizziness, altered taste, insomnia, constipation, dry mouth, nausea, diarrhoea, and fatigue.
