Weight-Loss Drugs for Obesity

There are six main drugs to aid in the fight against obesity.
They are as follows:
benzphetamine (an appetite suppressant)
diethylpropion (an appetite suppressant)
phendimetrazine (an appetite suppressant)
phentermine (an appetite suppressant)
orlistat (blocks pancreatic lipase)
sibutramine (an appetite suppressant).

All of these drugs can be addicting and have the possibility of being abused. Most doctors will only suggest this form of weight control in extreme cases.

Some of these drugs are regulated by the FDA and are only used for short terms. The four of these are benzphetamine, diethylpropion, phendimetrazine, and phentermine. They are prescribed for a short term because of the exceeding chance of people to become addicted to them. The problem with taking weight-loss pills for a short term though is the chance of gaining the weight back. Any quick-loss program is bound to fail, where learning to eat right and work out are the only ways for lifetime well-being.

There can be many risks in using weight-loss drugs. Since most of them are not FDA approved it is hard to know what affects they will have on individuals that take them. Some people may experience anxiety, or palpitations. But some may have a heart attack because their reactions are severe. Diarrhea can be an annoying side effect too. And if someone is pretty addictive by nature they can even become addicted to these pills. They also go straight to the liver and can aid in damaging this vital organ.

Guaraba, a weight-loss supplement, which contains caffeine, can cause anxiety and rapid heart rate if too much is taken. There are also issues with prescription medications, like Chromium should not be taken by those with diabetes medications without doctors consent. Chromium's list of side effects include negative effects on the neurotransmitter levels, so people with depression, anxiety or other psychiatric conditions shouldn't take it without consulting their doctor first.

Whether you choose to go to the doctor and get on a prescription drug to help with your weight-loss, or you decide to try an over-the-counter choice, always talk to a doctor first. There are too many possible side effects with weight-loss medications for them to be safe without the watchful eye of a physician.

Source:
Schlenker, E. & Long, S. (2007). Williams' Essentials of Nutrition & Diet Therapy. Mosby Elsevier.