Adipex, which was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 1959, is one of the oldest prescription diet aids on the market. Adipex is a stimulant medication suitable for short term use and may not be appropriate for everyone. Newer drugs, like Orlistat, work in different ways and can be a gentler and safer alternative to Adipex.
Function
Adipex, or phenteramine, is an appetite suppressant approved for use for 12 weeks or less. After only a few weeks, Adipex loses effectiveness and a higher dose is not a safe option, due to a risk of dependence and increased side effects. Common side effects include increased heart rate and blood pressure, insomnia and dizziness. The diet drug Diethylpropion has similar potential side effects. Possible complications associated with Adipex include primary pulmonary hypertension and valvular heart disease.
Types
The primary FDA approved alternative to stimulant type diet drugs is Orlistat. Orlistat is available by prescription as Xenical or in a lower dose over the counter form, Alli. While Diethylpropion and Adipex reduce appetite, Orlistat works by disabling lipase to reduce fat absorption in the intestines, decreasing both your total calorie and total fat intake. Orlistat is taken along with a low fat diet.
Time Frame
Whether you take Alli or Xenical, you will take a dose of your diet medication with every fat containing meal. The medications may be taken up to three times a day. Unlike other diet drugs, Orlistat may be safely used long term and has few potential complications. If you stop taking Orlistat, you may find that you regain lost weight, unless you have learned healthier eating habits and make good food choices.
Effects
While Orlistat is safe for most people and may increase your weight loss, the mechanism of the drug causes some potentially undesirable side effects or treatment effects. The fat that is not absorbed in the intestine is expelled through bowel movements. Oily, greasy and urgent bowel movements or anal discharge are common, particularly early in treatment or if you consume more than 15 g of fat at a meal.
Warning
A safety review of Orlistat is underway due to reports of liver injury and failure possibly associated with the drug. If you experience any symptoms of liver injury, including weakness, fatigue, fever, jaundice or dark urine, stop taking Orlistat immediately and consult your health care provider. You should avoid taking Orlistat if you have issues with food absorption, have had an organ transplant or take cyclosporine.
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