According to the Weight-Control Information Network, a service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the majority of weight-loss medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration are classified as appetite suppressants. These drugs help the patient lose weight by decreasing appetite or enhancing the sensation of being full. They are intended for patients who may be at risk of having health problems because of their weight.
Phentermine (Lonamin)
Phentermine is an oral prescription appetite suppressant that is intended for short-term use in a weight-loss program that also includes dieting, exercise and counseling, explains Drugs.com. It is reserved for patients who are grossly overweight and have an accompanying medical condition such as high blood pressure that could lead to serious health problems. After a few weeks, phentermine will become ineffective, and the patient should stop taking it. Patients should be aware that phentermine may impair their ability to drive or perform other tasks that require alertness. It also has the potential to become psychologically addicting. Therefore, patients who notice that they have begun to depend on it to feel positive about life should consult their doctor immediately. Other side effects may include high blood pressure, hives, impotence, insomnia, increased heart rate, restlessness and stomach or intestinal problems.
Phendimetrazine (Adipost)
According to MSN Health and Fitness, phendimetrazine is in a class of drugs called sympathomimetic amines. This means that it stimulates the central nervous system and produces physiological effects similar to those produced by adrenaline. These effects include increases in heart rate and blood pressure as well as suppression of appetite. Doctors prescribe phendimetrazine for short-term use--up to 12 weeks, in the treatment of obesity, and it should be used in a program of diet and exercise. Patients should be aware that it can be physically and psychologically addicting, and withdrawal symptoms may occur if they suddenly stop taking it. Serious side effects may include allergic reaction, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure and hallucinations or confusion. Patients who experience these effects should stop taking phendimetrazine and call their doctor immediately. More commonly occurring side effects may include restlessness, headache, dizziness and insomnia.
Sibutramine (Meridia)
MedlinePlus explains that sibutramine is an oral appetite suppressant that works by acting on appetite control centers in the brain. Patients who are overweight take sibutramine in combination with a diet and exercise program with the goal of losing weight and keeping it off. After three to six months of sibutramine therapy, the patient's doctor makes a judgment as to whether or not the drug is working based on how much weight the patient has lost. Sibutramine causes drowsiness, which may compromise the patient's ability to drive or perform other tasks that require mental alertness. Consumption of alcohol while taking this drug may intensify the drowsiness. Other side effects may include headache, constipation, heartburn, dry mouth and weakness.
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