Jeffrey Salazar
There are many diet pills available, both over-the-counter and prescription, that can aid weight loss. Prescription pills are most effective when combined with lifestyle changes, such as a nutritious diet and exercise. Appetite suppressants, for example, work by blocking or increasing specific hormones, neurotransmitters and/or peptides, making you feel less hungry or full faster when you eat. Some popular prescription diet pills include Contrave, Qsymia, Orlistat, Wegovy, and Zepbound.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Contrave |
| Form | Pill |
| Active Ingredients | Naltrexone and Bupropion |
| Dosage | 2 tablets every morning and 2 tablets every evening |
| Effectiveness | In initial studies, more than 40% of adults lost at least 5% of their initial body weight. More than 20% lost at least 10% of their body weight. |
| Side Effects | Abnormal sensations, dizziness, altered taste, insomnia, constipation, dry mouth |
| Availability | Prescription-only |
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What You'll Learn
Prescription vs. over-the-counter
Prescription appetite suppressants are recommended for people with obesity or a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. They are also prescribed for individuals with a BMI greater than 27 who have obesity-related health issues such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. These medications work by blocking or increasing specific hormones, neurotransmitters, and peptides, ultimately reducing appetite and cravings.
Prescription weight-loss medications include Contrave (naltrexone and bupropion), Qsymia (phentermine/topiramate ER), and Xenical (orlistat). They can be effective when combined with lifestyle changes, such as a nutritious diet and exercise. However, they may have side effects and interact with other medications, so they should be used under medical supervision.
Over-the-counter (OTC) weight-loss products are also available, but they are considered supplements rather than medications. Only Alli (orlistat) is FDA-approved for weight loss without a prescription. Other OTC products lack proper studies to confirm their safety and effectiveness.
While prescription medications are regulated and monitored by healthcare professionals, OTC products may interact with medications or cause health problems without the same level of oversight. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider before using any weight-loss product, prescription, or OTC, to ensure safe and effective use.
In addition to pills, weight-loss treatments may include injections, dietary changes, and increased physical activity. A holistic approach that combines medication with lifestyle changes can improve the chances of successful weight management.
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Appetite suppressants
There are prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) appetite suppressants. Prescription appetite suppressants can be for long-term or short-term use. Check with your healthcare provider before using OTC diet pills. Some OTC appetite suppressants may interact with medications or cause health problems. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the following prescription appetite suppressants for long-term use: Liraglutide (Saxenda®), an under-the-skin (subcutaneous) injection medication; Semaglutide (Wegovy®), an under-the-skin injection medication; Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave®), a pill; and Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia®), a pill.
Other FDA-approved prescription appetite suppressants are approved 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, meaning they have addiction potential and can be dangerous if used outside of their intended, prescribed use.
While certain types of appetite suppressants can only be prescribed by a doctor, many are available over the counter. Some examples of over-the-counter appetite suppressants include conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid naturally found in foods like dairy and beef; bitter orange supplements, which are believed to increase the basal metabolic rate and stimulate fat breakdown; garcinia cambogia pills, which contain hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which may reduce appetite by increasing serotonin levels in the brain; and glucomannan, a type of soluble fibre derived from the edible roots of the konjac plant.
It's important to note that appetite suppressants don't work on their own. Studies show that they are most beneficial for weight loss when combined with a reduced-calorie eating plan and regular physical activity. Additionally, each appetite suppressant has side effects and risks, so it's important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine if they are right for you.
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FDA-approved drugs
As of 2025, there are eight Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved weight loss drugs on the market. These drugs are meant to be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise. They are most effective when combined with lifestyle changes, such as a nutritious diet and routine exercise.
- Contrave is a combination of two medications, naltrexone and bupropion, in a single pill. It works by reducing your appetite and cravings for food. In clinical trials, 40% of participants lost at least 5% of their body weight, and 20% lost at least 10%.
- Qsymia (phentermine/topiramate ER) is another combination pill that reduces appetite. In initial studies, about 70% of adults lost at least 5% of their body weight after one year, and nearly 50% lost at least 10%.
- Orlistat (Xenical) is a prescription weight-loss pill that can be taken by adults three times a day with meals. It helps reduce fat absorption in the gut after eating. In initial studies, up to 55% of adults lost 5% or more of their body weight after one year, and up to 25% lost at least 10%.
- Liraglutide (Saxenda) is a daily injectable medication that acts on hormones, making patients feel full quicker and reducing hunger signals. Some patients may lose 5-10% of body weight, especially with higher doses.
- Zepbound (Tirzepatide) is a medication injected once a week and is approved for adults with obesity. It works by regulating hormones to suppress appetite and cravings.
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any weight loss medication to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.
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Injectables
Injectable medications are a type of weight-loss treatment that is administered through injection, typically on a weekly basis. Some injectables are already FDA-approved for weight loss, while others are in advanced clinical trials.
Wegovy
Wegovy (semaglutide) is an injectable prescription medicine used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity to help adults and children aged 12 and older with obesity or overweight-related medical problems lose weight. It is also intended to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with known heart disease. Wegovy is typically injected weekly and the dose is gradually increased over 16 to 20 weeks to reach the recommended 2.4 mg dosage. It is intended to be used indefinitely. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues, headache, dizziness, and fatigue.
Saxenda
Saxenda (liraglutide) is an injectable prescription medicine used for adults and children aged 12-17 with obesity or overweight-related medical problems. It is also used with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, low blood sugar, headache, fatigue, dizziness, and stomach pain.
Zepbound
Zepbound (tirzepatide) is an injectable medication that is FDA-approved for weight loss. It is approved for use in adults with a BMI of 30 or greater.
Retatrutide
Retatrutide is an injectable medication that is currently being studied for weight loss and Type 2 diabetes in adults. It is administered under the skin once weekly.
CagriSema
CagriSema is a combination of cagrilintide and semaglutide. It is an injectable medication that is in advanced clinical trials for weight loss.
MariTide
MariTide (maridebart cafraglutide) is an injectable medication that is in advanced clinical trials for weight loss.
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Lifestyle changes
While there are prescription weight-loss pills available, they are most effective when combined with lifestyle changes. Here are some suggestions for lifestyle changes that can help with weight loss:
Maintain a balanced diet
A balanced diet is fundamental to achieving and sustaining weight loss. Eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods ensures your body gets the essential vitamins, minerals, and energy it needs to function optimally. Focus on achievable weight loss goals rather than drastic changes. For example, increase your protein intake, reduce refined carbohydrate intake, and avoid unnecessary liquid calories.
Exercise regularly
Regular physical activity is crucial for weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight. Even small changes, like walking five more minutes each day, can make a difference.
Practice mindful eating
Instead of depriving yourself of treats, practice portion control. Take time to savour each bite, focusing on the texture and taste. Ask yourself if you feel satisfied or if you want more. This helps you tune into your body and eat more mindfully.
Stay hydrated
Drinking more water is another simple lifestyle change that can support your weight loss journey.
Manage cravings
If you struggle with cravings and appetite, consider prescription appetite suppressants. These can help lessen your appetite or make you feel full faster. However, consult your healthcare provider to determine if they are right for you and to understand the side effects and risks.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no single pill that is definitively the number 1 diet pill. Different pills work for different people, and it's important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the best option for you. However, some popular diet pills include Contrave, Qsymia, Wegovy, Ozempic, and Orlistat (Xenical).
Contrave is a combination medication that includes bupropion (an antidepressant) and naltrexone (an opioid antagonist). It works by reducing your appetite and cravings for food. In studies, around 40% of adults who took Contrave for a year lost at least 5% of their body weight, with some losing more.
Qsymia is a once-daily oral capsule that combines phentermine and topiramate ER. It is designed to reduce your appetite. Studies have shown that Qsymia helped about 70% of adults lose at least 5% of their body weight after one year, with nearly 50% losing at least 10%.
Wegovy is the 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 years or older with obesity or excess weight-related medical problems. It is intended to be used indefinitely alongside a healthy diet and exercise regimen.
Ozempic, also known as semaglutide, is a medication primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes. It has also shown potential weight-loss benefits, although it is not officially approved for this purpose.
Orlistat, also known by its brand name Xenical, is a prescription weight-loss pill. It is an oral capsule that adults can take three times a day with meals. It helps reduce the amount of fat absorbed from meals and can lower the risk of regaining weight after weight loss. Studies have shown that Orlistat helped up to 55% of adults lose 5% or more of their body weight after one year.
