If you are overweight or obese, your doctor may recommend weight-loss medications. These medications are taken in conjunction with making changes to your diet and exercise routine. Over-the-counter and prescription weight-loss pills are available. The most effective types of weight-loss medications have been approved by the FDA. Avoid weight-loss pills that are proven ineffective or that have questionable scientific evidence "proving" their safety or effectiveness.
Types
Prescription appetite suppressants are given to overweight and obese patients for short-term use. These medications work by making you feel as if you are full by affecting the chemicals in your brain that control appetite. FDA-approved appetite suppressants include phendimetrazine, phentermine and diethylpropion. These medications are intended for use only up to 12 weeks. These medications are prescribed only to patients who suffer increased health risks due to their weight.
Considerations
Alli is the only FDA-approved over-the-counter weight-loss medication. It contains half the amount of orlistat -- 60 mg -- as the prescription version, according to the Mayo Clinic. It is classified as a lipase inhibitor, meaning it blocks fat absorption. To prevent treatment side effects, such as oily rectal discharge and loose stools, you must follow a low-fat diet when taking Alli.
Types
Certain medications may promote weight loss, but have not been approved by the FDA for this use. According to the Mayo Clinic, the over-the-counter ingredient conjugated linoleic acid may reduce body fat and improve muscle mass. Seizure medications, such as zonisamide and topiramate and metformin for diabetes may also cause a person to lose weight.
Warning
Sibutramine was an FDA-approved weight-loss medication used to suppress the appetite. However, the drug was removed from the U.S. market in 2010 due to reports that it increased a person's risk of heart attack and stroke. Other ingredients removed from the market include country mallow and ephedra,which were found in over-the-counter weight-loss supplements. Side effects of these medications included rapid heart rate, dizziness, headache, vomiting and stomach upset.
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