Weight loss and weight gain basically involve a balance of calories taken in with the diet and calories expended in activity. The mainstay of weight loss involves lifestyle changes, with some combination of decreasing calories ingested and increasing calories spent in activity. At times, prescription drugs are administered to help with weight loss; surgery is also an option for some people. Weight loss, dieting, exercise, prescription drug use along with the diagnosis and management of health conditions should be undertaken with the consultation of a physician or other qualified health care professional.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines are drugs that mimic a chemical class called catecholamines. Catecholamines include the chemical epinephrine, commonly known as adrenalin. Therefore, amphetamines act somewhat like adrenalin. The drug "speed" is an abused amphetamine. These drugs are sometimes used for weight loss because they act as appetite suppressants. Some side effects include elevated blood pressure, potential for addiction and psychosis in high doses according to "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine" by Anthony Fauci M.D.
Orlistat
The pancreas is a digestive organ that stabilizes blood sugar and releases digestive enzymes into the intestine to help break down food for absorption. Orlistat inhibits a pancreatic enzyme called lipase according to "Basic and Clinical Pharmacology" by Drs. Bertram Katzung, Susan Masters, and Anthony Trevor. This prevents the breakdown and subsequent absorption of fat. It can cause GI upset, and in rare cases liver disease.
Metformin
The liver has many functions. One function is to store carbohydrates. One action of metformin is to prevent the liver from releases sugar into the blood. It is not approved for the treatment of weight loss only. Rather, it is prescribed for type II diabetes, and also contributes to weight loss in this disease.
Exenatide
Exenatide is another drug that is used for the treatment of Type II diabetes that contributes to weight loss in some people with the disease. It is a drug that is injected and causes a feeling of fullness, decreasing appetite. It can cause nausea in some people.
Pramlintide
Pramlintide is a drug that is also used for the treatment of diabetes, and is sometimes used for Type I as well as Type II diabetes. Like exenatide, it is also injected. This drugs mimics some of the actions of the hormone amylin, secreted by the mouth and pancreas. It results in slower emptying of the stomach and a decreased appetite.
References
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine"; Anthony S Fauci et al; 17th Ed 2008
- "Basic and Clinical Pharmacology"; Bertram Katzung, Susan Masters, and Anthony Trevor; 11th Ed 2009
Member Comments