Milly Gaines
Diet pills that help with cravings are known as appetite suppressants. They work by making you feel less hungry or making you feel full faster after eating less food. Prescription appetite suppressants can help with weight loss for people with obesity, typically defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. They are meant to be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. While there are over-the-counter (OTC) appetite suppressants available, prescription appetite suppressants have been proven to be more effective. Examples of FDA-approved prescription appetite suppressants include Liraglutide (Saxenda®), Semaglutide (Wegovy®), Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave®), and Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia®).
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type | Prescription or Over-the-Counter (OTC) |
| Ingredients | Caffeine, Guarana, Garcinia Cambogia, Green Tea, Yerba Mate, Chromium, Vitamin B6, etc. |
| Effect | Suppresses appetite, reduces cravings, boosts energy, increases fullness, blocks fat absorption, etc. |
| Risks | Misuse, overuse, digestive problems, substance abuse, sleeplessness, agitation, etc. |
| Availability | Doctor's prescription, online, Amazon, etc. |
| Brand Names | Contrave, Qsymia, Wegovy, Didrex, Regimex, Tenuate, Zepbound, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Prescription appetite suppressants
There are several different types of prescription appetite suppressants, including diethylpropion, phentermine, and phendimetrazine. These drugs come in various forms, such as tablets, extended-release capsules, and oral solutions. Typically, they are taken once a day in the morning or a few hours after waking up, as they can sometimes cause insomnia if taken too late in the day. It is important to take these medications exactly as prescribed by your doctor and to not increase the dosage or frequency without medical advice.
Phentermine, for example, is a stimulant that suppresses appetite by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain that control feelings of hunger. It is typically prescribed for short-term use, up to 12 weeks, as extended use may lead to dependence and a loss of effectiveness as the body adjusts. Diethylpropion is another stimulant that works similarly to phentermine but is often prescribed for longer periods. Phendimetrazine is also a stimulant that can be prescribed for short-term or long-term use, depending on the patient's needs and response to the medication.
These medications can have side effects, and their use should be carefully monitored by a doctor. Common side effects include increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, insomnia, restlessness, and dry mouth. More serious, but less common, side effects may include pulmonary hypertension, valvular heart disease, addiction, and mood changes. It is important to discuss potential risks and benefits with your doctor before starting any prescription appetite suppressant.
It is also worth noting that prescription appetite suppressants are typically used as a short-term solution to help establish healthy eating habits and lose weight initially. They are not a long-term solution for maintaining weight loss. Once a patient stops taking the medication, their appetite may return, and they must rely on lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, to continue managing their weight.
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Natural appetite suppressants
Exercise
Exercise releases endorphins, hormones that can reduce stress and improve your mood, helping to curb stress eating. It also suppresses hunger hormones. Aim for 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity cardio exercise, or whatever breakdown works for you. Additionally, strength training at least twice a week for 15 minutes can be beneficial.
Sleep
Getting enough sleep is essential. Too little sleep can increase stress levels, which can stimulate your appetite.
Lean Protein and High-Fiber Foods
Foods that are rich in protein and fiber take longer to digest, keeping you fuller for longer. Examples include whole grains, strawberries, and whey protein.
Water
Drinking enough water and other calorie-free beverages like tea and coffee can help suppress appetite.
Natural Substances
Some natural substances that may suppress appetite include fenugreek, green tea, yerba mate, caffeine, glucomannan, and certain herbs and plants. However, it's important to note that the effectiveness of these substances varies, and they may have side effects.
While natural appetite suppressants may be tempting, it's always best to consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplements, as they can carry risks and may not provide the desired results.
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FDA-approved prescription weight-loss pills
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several prescription weight-loss medications. These medications are intended to be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any weight-loss medication, as they can have side effects and interactions with other medications.
- Liraglutide (Saxenda): This medication is administered via subcutaneous injection and works by affecting how the body and brain experience appetite and hunger. It can help reduce cravings and promote weight loss.
- Semaglutide (Wegovy): This medication is also given via subcutaneous injection and can help control hunger signals in the brain. It works by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone in the gut that regulates appetite.
- Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave): This is a prescription pill that can help reduce cravings and promote weight loss.
- Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia): This is another prescription pill that has been shown to be effective in weight management for adults and children ages 12 and older.
- Orlistat (Xenical, Alli): This medication is approved for long-term use and is available as a prescription and over-the-counter option. It is the only over-the-counter weight-loss medication currently approved by the FDA.
Other FDA-approved prescription weight-loss medications include tirzepatide (Zepbound), which is administered via weekly injections, and setmelanotide (IMCIVREE), which is approved for children ages 6 and older with rare genetic disorders causing obesity.
It is worth noting that prescription weight-loss medications are typically recommended for individuals with obesity or a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. They may also be recommended 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.
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OTC appetite suppressants
Over-the-counter (OTC) appetite suppressants are supplements that reduce appetite, decrease food consumption, and promote weight loss. While prescription appetite suppressants are recommended for people with obesity, OTC appetite suppressants are available without a prescription. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before taking any OTC appetite suppressants, as they may interact with medications or cause health issues.
Some common OTC appetite suppressants include:
- Garcinia Cambogia: Derived from the Garcinia gummi-gutta fruit, it contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which may reduce appetite and promote weight loss.
- Glucomannan: A type of soluble fiber derived from the konjac plant, it can absorb up to 50 times its weight in water, helping to increase feelings of fullness and reduce appetite.
- Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA): A naturally occurring polyunsaturated fatty acid found in dairy and beef, it has been shown to affect appetite-regulating genes and hormones in animal studies.
- Bitter Orange: Marketed as a weight loss supplement, bitter orange is believed to increase basal metabolic rate and stimulate fat breakdown, but its effectiveness is inconclusive.
- Whey Protein: Some studies suggest that whey protein supplementation may improve fullness and help with short-term hunger suppression.
While these OTC appetite suppressants are readily available, it is important to note that they may not have the same proven appetite-suppressing effects as prescription medications. Additionally, natural supplements may not be regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and could contain harmful substances. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement or weight loss regimen.
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Risks 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 typically recommended for individuals with obesity, which is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. While these medications can aid in weight loss, it's important to be aware of their potential risks.
Firstly, appetite suppressants are not suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions should refrain from taking these drugs. For instance, those with heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, liver disease, or a history of eating disorders are advised against using appetite suppressants. Additionally, these drugs may interact with antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications and could increase the risk of suicidal thoughts in individuals with depression or anxiety. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid taking appetite suppressants.
Secondly, there are risks associated with the use of appetite suppressants, especially when it comes to short-term medications that rely on stimulants to reduce appetite. One significant risk is misuse or overuse, particularly for individuals with a history of substance abuse. Newer GLP-1 agonists may cause food to remain in the stomach for extended periods, leading to serious digestive problems. Furthermore, some over-the-counter (OTC) appetite suppressants or weight-loss supplements may contain stimulants such as ephedra, ephedrine, or caffeine, which have been linked to reports of heart attacks, seizures, strokes, and even death.
Additionally, as with any medication, appetite suppressants can cause side effects. These side effects can vary depending on the specific medication and may include mild to severe health issues. Some rare but serious side effects may include an increased heart rate, high blood pressure, or signs of liver damage, such as jaundice. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before taking any appetite suppressants and to report any side effects to ensure proper monitoring and adjustments.
Moreover, natural appetite suppressants or supplements often claim to control cravings and curb appetite, but there is little scientific evidence to support their effectiveness. Some of these products may even be risky, as the FDA does not regulate natural diet supplements, and they could contain harmful substances.
Lastly, it's important to remember that appetite suppressants are not a standalone solution for weight loss. They work best in conjunction with a reduced-calorie eating plan and regular physical activity. Combining these medications with healthy lifestyle changes will maximize their benefits and contribute to sustainable weight loss.
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Frequently asked questions
Appetite suppressants are a type of weight-loss medication, sometimes called diet pills, that affect how your body and brain experience appetite and hunger. They can make you feel less hungry or make you feel full faster after eating less food.
Liraglutide (Saxenda), Semaglutide (Wegovy), Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave), and Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia) are some examples of FDA-approved prescription appetite suppressants.
Garcinia Cambogia, bitter orange, green tea, yerba mate, and chromium picolinate are some examples of over-the-counter or natural appetite suppressants. However, it's important to note that the FDA does not regulate natural diet supplements, and there is limited evidence of their effectiveness.
It's important to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any appetite suppressants, as they can interact with medications or cause health problems. Your healthcare provider will consider your health history, medications, and willingness to tolerate side effects.
In addition to taking appetite suppressants, it's recommended to combine them with a reduced-calorie eating plan and regular physical activity. Drinking more water and warm drinks like tea and coffee (without cream or sweeteners) can also help you feel fuller.
