Weight loss and weight gain are major health and fitness issues in the United States. According to MayoClinic.com, it is best to try to lose weight through a healthy diet and exercise. But for some people, losing weight can be a difficult and frustrating goal. For those people who struggle to lose weight, and have weight related medical problems, it may be reasonable to add an appetite suppressant. MayoClinic.com states that diet pills should be reserved for those people whose BMI is greater than 30 or for those with health conditions related to their weight. There are several FDA-approved diet pills on the market.
Orlistat
Orlistat is approved for long term use in the treatment of obesity. Orlistat works by blocking the absorption of fat by the small intestine according to Drugs.com. The problem with orlistat is that if the meal contains more than 30 percent fat content, the side effects can be embarrassing. Drugs.com states that these effects are usually temporary and a sign that the medication is working. Side effects include oily rectal spotting on undergarments, oily or fatty stools, gas with an oily discharge, increase bowel movements, inability to control bowel movements, stomach pain and nausea and vomiting. Orlistat 120 mg is taken three times a day with each meal that contains fat or within 1 hour of eating the meal.
Phentermine
Phentermine is a stimulant similar to an amphetamine according to Drugs.com. This FDA approved medication works as an appetite suppressant through the central nervous system. It should be used in conjunction with diet and exercise. Taking this medication with another diet pill called fenfluramine can cause a severe lung disorder called pulmonary hypertension. Phentermine may be habit forming, may impair thinking and should not be used while operating machinery. This drug should not be used in the presence of high blood pressure or heart disease. Phentermine should be taken early in the day in order to avoid insomnia and taken on an empty stomach. Side effects include hallucinations, rapid breathing, fast heart rate, panic attacks, hostility and aggression and nausea and vomiting.
Phendimetrazine
Phendimetrazine is FDA approved for short term use in weight loss management according to Drugs.com. This drug is also a stimulant like an amphetamine and works on the central nervous system to suppress appetite. It is known as an anorexic drug. Phendimetrazine in extended release form should be taken with a full glass of water in the morning. It may cause insomnia if taken in the evening. Phendimetrazine may cause dizziness, blurred vision or restlessness. Toxicity causes tremor, rapid breathing, confusion, hallucinations, nausea and vomiting.
Member Comments