How Do Appetite Suppressants Work?

Introduction

With an obesity epidemic upon the United States and physical appearance an obsession of mass media, weight-loss products have become a multibillion-dollar industry. Appetite suppressants, a longtime option, are designed to help keep your hunger under control so you eat fewer calories during the day.

Hypothalamus

Appetite suppressants work by targeting a specific part of your nervous system called the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is located just above the brain stem, directly below the thalamus. The hypothalamus is responsible for controlling many aspects of your body, one being your appetite. When glucose levels get too low or the body senses a need for food (whether physical or emotional need), the hypothalamus enacts the release of neurotransmitters to help resolve or satiate the problem.

Neurotransmitters

Two main neurotransmitters are involved with hunger: serotonin and norepinephrine. When the hypothalamus has sensed that you have eaten something and are no longer hungry, it releases these hormones into the brain to signal that you are full. Appetite suppressants increase the levels of these neurotransmitters in the system and fools the body into thinking it's full. This full effect can help decrease the amount of food you eat during meals and help control cravings between meals.

Types

Several types and brands of appetite suppressants are on the market. Phentermine (Adipex and Fastin) as well as sibutramine (Meridia) are two of the most commonly prescribed appetite suppressants. Amphetamines ((Adderall, Dexedrine) are also sometimes prescribed as appetite suppressants, but due to their addictive capabilities and potential for abuse, they're only prescribed for those dealing with extreme cases of obesity who must lose large amounts of weight to avoid serious health complications.

Dangers

All prescription-strength appetite suppressants come with chances of dependence and addiction. This is especially true for amphetamines. There's also the risk of an allergic reaction to the active ingredients in the suppressant. Those with cardiovascular diseases (such as high blood pressure, heart disease and arterioscleros) should not take use appetite suppressants unless specifically directed and monitored by their doctor. Appetite suppressants also should not be used with other prescription weight-loss products. .