The ideal way to lose excess weight is through proper diet and a regular exercise routine. Unfortunately, for some people who are very overweight, diet and exercise may not be successful and more help, in the form of weight loss drugs, may be needed. MayoClinic.com notes that when combined with the proper diet and exercise program, weight loss drugs can help you lose an average of 5 percent to 10 percent of your body weight within one year.
Eligibility
If you only have a moderate amount of weight to lose, weight loss drugs are not for you. Doctors generally prescribe weight loss drugs for people who are obese and have tried other weight loss efforts that have failed. If you have a body mass index, or BMI, that is greater than 30, you may be eligible for a weight loss drug. If your BMI is 27 or greater and you have a weight-related medical condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, your doctor may also recommend a weight loss drug.
Types of Weight Loss Drugs
Phentermine and diethylpropion are two popular weight loss drugs that belong to a class of medications called anoretics. Anoretics act on your central nervous system, decreasing your appetite and triggering your body to think it's full. Both medications are available by prescription only and are used to increase weight loss in people who are following a healthy diet and regular exercise routine. Both medications also have the same common side effects, which include increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, dizziness and insomnia, according to MayoClinic.com.
Orlistat belongs to a class of medications called lipase inhibitors. This weight loss drug works by decreasing the amount of fat that your intestine can absorb. Instead of entering your body, this fat is eliminated through your stool. Orlistat should be used in conjunction with a low calorie, low fat diet and is available by prescription and over-the-counter, under the commercial name Alli.
Considerations
Most weight loss drugs are approved only for short-term use, which is defined as less than 12 weeks. Only orlistat has been approved for long-term use, although the Food and Drug Administration is evaluating the long-term safety of orlistat due to reports of liver disease in those taking it regularly.
Although weight loss drugs are successful in helping people lose weight, MayoClinic.com notes that the majority of people who discontinue use of weight loss drugs regain lost weight. It is important to adopt a healthy diet and lifestyle habit while you are taking a weight loss drug and to continue this lifestyle even after you stop taking the drug.
Warnings
Phentermine and diethylpropion are classified as controlled substances and have the potential to be habit-forming. If you have a history of drug abuse, you should not take these medications. Taking these medications longer than intended can cause serious side effects.
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