Obesity is a major health concern and approximately 72 million adults in the United States are obese, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and high blood pressure, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Appetite suppressant medications can help facilitate weight loss in the obese population. They affect chemicals in the brain to decrease appetite and stimulate the feeling of being full. Only a few appetite suppressants are approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
Phentermine
Phentermine is a prescription appetite suppressant indicated to be used along with diet and exercise to treat obesity in individuals with high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol. Phentermine is available in tablet or extended-release capsule form and is taken up to three times per day 30 minutes before meals or once per day in the morning, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Phentermine is prescribed only as a short-term therapy not to exceed 12 weeks as it can be habit-forming leading to abuse and dependence. The most common side effects of phentermine include increased blood pressure and heart rate, diarrhea, sleeplessness and dry mouth.
Phendimetrazine
Phendimetrazine is a central nervous system stimulant prescription appetite suppressant medication. It is indicated as a short-term therapy--not to exceed 12 weeks--in conjunction with diet and exercise for the treatment of obesity. Phendimetrazine is administered 30 minutes before meals or once per day in the morning, depending on the type of tablet prescribed, according to Drugs.com. The most common side effects include insomnia, nervousness, headache, diarrhea and constipation, dry mouth, and sex drive changes.
Diethylpropion
Diethylpropion is an FDA-approved appetite suppressant that acts on the central nervous system to suppress appetite. It is used as a supplement to diet and exercise for the treatment of obesity in individuals who have not responded to weight loss through diet and exercise alone. Diethylpropion is available as an extended release tablet to be taken once daily or three times per day before meals with the regular-release formula. It can also be taken in the evening to combat nighttime hunger, according to Drugs.com. Diethylpropion is indicated for short-term use and should not be taken for more than 12 weeks. Side effects of the medication may include dizziness and headache, insomnia, irregular heartbeat, diarrhea or constipation, mood changes, and dry mouth.
References
- Weight-control Information Network: Prescription Medications for the Treatment of Obesity
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Phentermine
- Drugs.com: Phendimetrazine
- Drugs.com: Diethylpropion
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Vital Signs: State-Specific Obesity Prevalence Among Adults--United States, 2009
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