Jeffrey Salazar
There are many diet pills on the market, and the best one for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Prescription appetite suppressants, for example, are designed to lessen your appetite or make you feel full faster, and they typically work best when combined with a healthy diet and exercise. Some examples of FDA-approved prescription weight loss pills include Contrave, Qsymia, Orlistat, Zepbound, Liraglutide, and Semaglutide. Natural appetite suppressants, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy, are also available but may be less accessible due to prescription limits. Ultimately, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable option for you, as they can provide guidance on potential side effects, interactions with medications, and health considerations.
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What You'll Learn
Appetite suppressants
Prescription appetite suppressants can help with weight loss for people who have obesity. They work to lessen your appetite or make you feel full faster. An analysis of 143 studies revealed that phentermine-topiramate and GLP-1 receptor agonists (like liraglutide and semaglutide) are among the most effective medications for reducing weight in people with obesity. The typical body weight reduction with these medications is 6% to 11%.
There are prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) appetite suppressants. Prescription appetite suppressants can be for long-term or short-term use. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved these prescription appetite suppressants for long-term use: Liraglutide (Saxenda), an injection medication; Semaglutide (Wegovy), an injection medication; Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave), a pill; and Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia), a pill. Other FDA-approved prescription appetite suppressants are for short-term use only — typically up to 12 weeks (three months). These include Benzphetamine (Didrex, Regimex), Diethylpropion (Tenuate, Tenuate Dospan), Phendimetrazine (Prelu-2), and Phentermine (Dipex-P, Atti-Plex P, Pro-Fast, and others). These short-term appetite suppressants are controlled substances, which means they have addiction potential and can be dangerous if you use them outside of their intended, prescribed use.
Some OTC appetite suppressants may interact with medications or cause health problems, so it's important to check with your healthcare provider before using them. While certain types of appetite suppressants can only be prescribed by a doctor, many are available over the counter. Supplements that claim to reduce appetite may include ingredients such as green tea extracts, which contain substances called catechins that might have some effect on appetite and fat burning. However, studies suggest that if green tea has any effect on weight loss, it's small. Bitter orange supplements are also marketed to promote weight loss by reducing appetite and are available over the counter. Garcinia cambogia pills are made with an extract derived from the peel of the Garcinia gummi-gutta fruit and are used to suppress appetite and promote weight loss. Glucomannan is a type of soluble fiber derived from the edible roots of the konjac plant and is used as a weight-loss supplement to increase fullness and reduce appetite. Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) is a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid naturally found in foods like dairy and beef and is sold in concentrated form as a weight loss supplement.
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FDA-approved weight loss pills
While there are many weight loss pills on the market, not all of them are FDA-approved. Weight loss pills should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise for the best results. Here is a list of FDA-approved weight loss pills:
Orlistat (Xenical, Alli)
Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor that comes in a capsule. It works by blocking the enzyme that breaks down fats consumed through food, inhibiting the absorption of dietary fats. It is intended for use with a reduced-calorie diet and is indicated to reduce the risk of weight regain. Orlistat is approved for adults and children aged 12 and older.
Liraglutide (Saxenda)
Liraglutide is a 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. It is approved for long-term use and is suitable for adults and children aged 12 and older.
Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia)
Qsymia is a combination weight-loss pill that helps reduce appetite. It is approved for adults and children aged 12 and older.
Semaglutide (Wegovy)
Wegovy is a brand name for semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It is administered as an injection and is approved for use in adults and children aged 12 and older with obesity or excess weight and weight-related medical problems.
Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave)
Contrave combines two medications, naltrexone and bupropion, into one pill. It works by reducing appetite and cravings for food. It is approved for long-term use and is suitable for adults.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any weight loss medication to understand the potential risks and benefits and ensure it is suitable for your individual needs.
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Prescription vs. over-the-counter pills
There are several weight-loss pills on the market, both prescription and over-the-counter. Prescription pills are generally recommended for people with obesity, defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. They can also be recommended for people with a BMI greater than 27 who have weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.
Prescription weight-loss pills are FDA-approved and are typically more effective than over-the-counter options. They work by suppressing appetite, reducing cravings, and decreasing the absorption of fat or calories. Examples of prescription weight-loss pills include:
- Orlistat (Xenical)
- Contrave (naltrexone-bupropion)
- Qsymia (phentermine-topiramate)
- Liraglutide (Saxenda)
- Semaglutide (Wegovy)
- Benzphetamine (Didrex)
- Diethylpropion (Tenuate)
- Phendimetrazine (Prelu-2)
- Phentermine (Adipex-P, ProFast)
These prescription medications are generally safe when taken as directed, but they may have side effects such as rapid heartbeat, mood changes, nausea, diarrhoea, and constipation. They should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise for optimal results.
Over-the-counter weight-loss pills, on the other hand, are not regulated by the FDA and may not have sufficient studies to confirm their safety and effectiveness. The only FDA-approved over-the-counter weight-loss pill is Alli (orlistat), which is available in a lower dose than its prescription counterpart. Other over-the-counter products are considered supplements, and their effectiveness may vary.
It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any weight-loss medication, as they can provide guidance on potential side effects and interactions with other medications. They can also help determine the best treatment plan for weight loss, which may include a combination of medication, diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
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Side effects and health risks
While diet pills can be effective in helping with weight loss, they also come with potential side effects and health risks that vary from person to person. It's important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any diet pills to ensure they are right for you and to be aware of any possible adverse reactions.
Some common side effects of short-term prescription appetite suppressants include rapid or irregular heartbeat, mood changes such as depression or anxiety, cognitive changes like agitation or psychosis, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain, and indigestion. Long-term prescription appetite suppressants are generally safer when taken as prescribed, but short-term prescription options require more caution due to their potential for severe side effects and addiction.
Specific medications have their own side effects. For instance, phentermine may cause headache, overstimulation, high blood pressure, insomnia, rapid or irregular heart rate, and tremors. Topiramate, when combined with phentermine, can increase efficacy by decreasing appetite and cravings. Liraglutide, sold under the brand names Saxenda and Victoza, may cause nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, vomiting, headache, decreased appetite, fatigue, dizziness, abdominal pain, and renal insufficiency. Contrave, a combination of naltrexone and bupropion, is usually taken with a low-calorie diet and appropriate exercise and may interact with high-fat meals. Orlistat (Xenical, Alli) may have gastrointestinal side effects, and Zepbound may interact with Synthroid, increasing the risk of medullary thyroid carcinoma. Wegovy, a brand name for semaglutide, may cause gastrointestinal symptoms, headache, dizziness, and fatigue.
It's important to be cautious when considering weight-loss pills, as experts have expressed concern that the side effects of prescription medications for weight management may outweigh the benefits in some cases. Weight-loss medications have been linked to serious health problems in the past, and certain individuals taking these medications have reported suicidal thoughts or actions. Moreover, these medications should not be taken during pregnancy or when planning a pregnancy, as they may harm the fetus.
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Combining pills with lifestyle changes
While there are prescription medications for weight loss, they are most effective when combined with lifestyle changes. This includes a healthy diet, regular exercise, and addressing other factors that cause weight gain, such as eating triggers and lack of sleep.
When it comes to weight loss, a holistic approach that combines medication with lifestyle changes is often the key to success. Here are some tips for combining pills with lifestyle changes:
Consult a Healthcare Professional:
Before starting any weight loss program, it's important to consult a healthcare professional. They can assess your individual needs and recommend the best course of action. This may include prescribing weight loss medication if necessary.
Focus on a Healthy Diet:
A healthy diet is a crucial component of weight loss. Aim for a nutritious diet that includes a variety of whole foods, lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Reducing your intake of refined carbohydrates and unnecessary liquid calories can also be beneficial.
Engage in Regular Physical Activity:
Regular exercise is essential for weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, as well as muscle-strengthening activities at least twice a week. You can also use apps to track your exercise progress and stay motivated.
Manage Your Appetite:
Certain weight loss medications, such as Contrave and Qsymia, work by reducing your appetite and cravings. Combining these medications with a healthy diet can help you stay on track and make healthier food choices.
Address Behavioural Changes:
Weight loss is not just about diet and exercise. Addressing behavioural changes, such as eating triggers and improving sleep habits, can also impact your weight loss journey. A lifestyle program that focuses on these changes can help you develop healthier habits and improve your overall well-being.
Set Achievable Goals:
Setting achievable weight management goals is important to stay motivated. Remember that weight loss is a gradual process, and small, incremental changes can lead to significant results over time. Don't compare your progress to others, as everyone's journey is unique.
By combining weight loss medication with these lifestyle changes, you can improve your chances of achieving sustainable weight loss and maintaining a healthier lifestyle. Remember to always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new medication or diet plan.
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Frequently asked questions
There isn't one weight-loss pill that is widely considered to be the safest and most effective option overall. The best weight-loss medication for you will be one that helps you achieve your target weight with as few side effects as possible and at a cost you can afford. Pills are generally more affordable than injectables.
Some examples of weight-loss pills include Qsymia, Contrave, Orlistat, and Zepbound.
Weight-loss pills work best in the context of a healthy eating plan and exercise. They can help with hunger, cravings, and metabolic preservation. Some weight-loss pills are appetite suppressants, which can make you feel less hungry or full faster after eating less food.
Yes, weight-loss pills can have side effects. For example, common adverse reactions to Orlistat include oily discharge from the rectum, flatulence with discharge, increased defecation, and fecal incontinence. Short-term prescription appetite suppressants that are controlled substances can cause rapid or irregular heartbeat.
