Doctors at the Mayo Clinic report that appetite suppressants can be helpful in treating obesity for a short period of time. Over-the-counter and prescription appetite suppressants are meant to kick start a diet as the dieter learns new eating behaviors and begins a lifelong practice of healthy eating and exercise. If changes in behavior do not accompany the use of appetite suppressants, the dieter typically will regain the weight lost.
Sympathomimetic
Sympathomimetic appetite suppressants are only available through a doctor's prescription. Some of the brand names the drug is sold under include Adipex, Meridia, Bontril and Tenuate. The effects of the medication become ineffective after a couple weeks. Sympathomimetic appetite suppressants are available in capsule and tablet form. The drug may produce a positive result in a urine test for amphetamines and typically produces dry mouth. Doctors at the Mayo Clinic report that many patients experience a false sense of well-being on the medication and may have other symptoms, such as drowsiness and dizziness. The appetite suppressants can be addicting and cause withdrawal symptoms, such as depression, nausea and stomach cramps. The most common side effect of the drug is an increase in blood pressure. Through rare, other side effects can include chest pain, paranoia, fainting or hives.
Over-the-counter Suppressants
There are a wide variety of claims made by manufacturers of over-the-counter appetite suppressants, most of which have not been medically proven. Some of the widely available pills and supplements actually can be harmful. Chromium, though relatively safe in the short-term does not produce weight loss and long-term side effects are unknown. A common ingredient in over-the-counter appetite depressants is ephedra, which causes high blood pressure, seizures and heart attacks and has been banned from the marketplace. Most green tea extract supplements contain high levels of caffeine and can cause vomiting, bloating, diarrhea and indigestion. There is no conclusive evidence that hoodia causes any reduction in appetite.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines stimulate the central nervous system and are made synthetically from dextroamphetamine and methamphetamine. Amphetamines are available by prescription to treat obesity and typically are sold under the brand names of Adderal, Dexedrine and Desoxyn. Doctors at the Center for Substance Abuse Research at the University of Maryland report that controversy exists about the use of amphetamines to treat obesity and whether the benefits outweigh the risks. Amphetamines cause the release of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, creating a release of energy, reduced appetite and feelings of well-being. The drugs are highly addictive however and can cause unwanted side effects, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, nausea and tremors. Long-term use can cause ulcers, convulsions and malnutrition.
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