Weight Loss Medications

Weight loss medication should only be used under the supervision of a professional doctor. They are dangerous if not used properly, just like aspirin and anti-depressants. Prescription anti-obesity medicines are useful if used in conjunction with a weight loss and exercise program. They do very little on their own and require effort from the patient to be successful. They are intended for people who need to lose over 50 pounds and are not for 'recreational' dieters looking to lose a few pounds. Many obese patients have a co morbid condition such as diabetes or heart disease that can further endanger their lives. The decision to take anti-obesity medications is decided by a bariatric physician who weights the side effects of medication versus the risks of remaining obese.

Some common side effects of taking appetite suppressants are dizziness, abdominal pain, diarchies, constipation, nausea, sleep difficulties, dryness of the mouth, nervousness, increased blood pressure and headaches. They can suppress the appetite or change the way the body burns calories. Below is a list of the common types of weight loss medications.

• Amphetamines - They are strong stimulants that are no longer used for weight control because they are highly addictive.
• Appetite Suppressants - Phentermine is sold under the brand names Ionamin, Adpiex, Fastin, Banobese, Obenix, and Zantryl. Meridia and Dexatrim are two other common appetite suppressants.
• Orlistat - Marketed as Xenical, it is an inhibitor or 'blocker' drug. It prevents absorption of about 30% dietary fat by the digestion system but can also prohibit the absorption of vitamins A, D, E and K. Because the fat is not digested by the body, some side effects include flatulence
• Leptin - May help reduce body weight and fat by curbing the metabolism and appetite.

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