Prescription Drugs against Obesity?

There is no "magic pill" that can help you lose weight. Whether you buy weight loss pills over the counter or get a prescription from your doctor, you will still need to combine them with a proper diet and exercise to get lasting results. For some people who are severely overweight, however, a prescription weight loss medication may be helpful.

There are only two types of weight loss prescription drugs on the market today - those that suppress the appetite and those that partially block the absorption of fat. The first class is prescribed more often and has been around longer.

Some appetite suppressants are prescribed as a sort of "jump-start" to weight loss and are only meant to be taken for a few weeks. These are prescription drugs such as Bontril and Besoxin, which contain an amphetamine-like ingredient that also increases energy. It also tends to raise the heart rate and blood pressure; so long term use isn't recommended.

Another type of suppressant is Meridia, which curbs hunger pangs by increasing the production of certain brain chemicals that are related to the feeling of being satisfied. Like other suppressants, it can raise blood pressure, but this is generally mild and so isn't a concern except in people who have heart problems. It can be used long term and is known to curb the appetite for six months to a year before becoming ineffective.

The most recent entries into the prescription diet drugs market are lipitase inhibitors. These medications stop the enzyme the body produces to break down fats for absorption. By interfering with production of this enzyme, lipitase inhibitors like Xenical (Orlistat in its generic form) can block up to 30% of the fat a body takes in. Side effects can be severe, though, and include cramping, diarrhea and indigestion. It's generally only used for those who are severely obese or who are suffering from health problems such as diabetes or heart disease because of their weight.

If you are obese or have drastic health problems because of your weight, talk to your doctor about taking a prescription drug to encourage weight loss. But remember - there will be side effects, and it isn't a free pass to eat everything you want to.

Alternative Therapies | Bad Nutrients | Calculators | Detox Diets | Diabetic Diets|
Diet Pills and Supplements | Exercise | Facts | Free Diets | Habits | Weight and Health | Healthy Nutrients | Herbs | Low Carb Diets | Macrobiotic and Vegetarian Diets | Minerals | Miscellaneous Diets I | Miscellaneous Diets II | Natural Diets | Recipes | Tips | Vitamins and Enzymes | Weightloss Plans |

All Article Text on this site is copyrighted© 2006-2007 weightcontrolroom.com All rights reserved. Do not copy.
The info on this site is for informational purposes only and not medical info in any way, see disclaimer.