Losing weight is not easy, especially if you have a significant amount to lose. Genetics, lack of physical exercise and overeating can all contribute to weight gain and a poor state of health. The use of prescription diet pills is not for everyone, but if you have health problems and struggle with weight loss, it might be for you.
Eligibility
Making an appointment with your doctor is the first step. Your doctor will evaluate your body mass index, also referred to as BMI, along with your health history. If you have a BMI greater than 30, or obesity related health issues with a BMI greater than 27, you may be a candidate for prescription diet pills.
Long-Term Pills
Orlistat is the only prescription diet pill approved for long-term use and is a lipase inhibitor. This type of medication prevents your intestines from absorbing the fat in foods. The unabsorbed fat then exits your body through your stool. In some cases, the use of orlistat can also prevent weight gain after you lose the weight. Possible side effects include oily spotting, gas and intestinal cramps. In addition, the Food and Drug Administration is investigating the possible risk of liver damage related to orlistat, but there was no definite association as of 2010, according to MayoClinic.com.
Short-Term Pills
Diethylpropion and phentermine are prescription diet pills classed as anorectics, according to the National Institutes of Health's Pub Med website. Prescribed for up to 12 weeks, these medications work by decreasing your appetite and may provide some initial help when beginning a weight-loss program. Side effects of these medications include dizziness, insomnia and an increase in blood pressure and heart rate.
Results
It is possible to lose five to 10 percent of your total weight within a year, keeping in mind that these results include the addition of lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, notes MayoClinic.com. It is also possible that you will experience weight gain when you stop taking these medications. Your doctor can help you establish a weight-loss regimen that includes appropriate fitness, diet and weight-loss goals, as well as long-term weight-loss management.
Considerations
Weight-loss prescriptions are not covered by all health insurance plans so be sure to check with your insurance company prior to filling your prescription. You should also keep in mind that diet pills can help you make necessary lifestyle changes but they are not the solution to permanent weight loss. Long-term success requires physical exercise on a regular basis and a healthy diet.
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