FDA Approved Diet Pills

If you are overweight or obese and trying to lose weight, there are FDA approved diet pills that may help. You may have considered asking your doctor for a prescription. Before you make a decision, however, you need to know if you qualify for pharmacological treatment of overweight or obesity. And, you need to know abougt the side effects you may experience.

BMI Considerations from Pharmacological Weight-Loss

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, a division of the National Institutes of Health, diet pills are only appropriate for people who have a body mass index greater than or equal to 30 or a BMI greater than or equal to 27 and co-morbid conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension. In additional, the NHLBI states that drug therapy should be accompanied by a diet that contains fewer calories than you need, also called a hypocaloric diet. Orlistat and mazindol are the two drugs approved by the FDA for weight loss as an adjunct to behavior and lifestyle modifications. Sibutremine, also known as Meridia, was withdrawn from the market in October 2010 due to risks of heart attacks and stroke.

Orlistat

Orlistat is sold as Alli and Xenical; the former is a lower dose available over-the counter and the latter requires a prescription. Orlistat works by inhibiting the absorption of fat in the gastrointestinal tract. Consequently, fat moves quickly through the digestive tract, resulting in fewer calories being absorbed, which promotes weight loss. Side effects may include cramping, diarrhea, and loss of bowel control. You should limit dietary fat to less than 30 percent of daily calorie intake and consider use of protective hygienic undergarments, as oil spots can occur. Fat soluble vitamin absorption may decrease and supplements of vitamins A, D, E, K, beta-carotene and supplements may be recommended by your doctor to prevent deficiencies.

Mazindol

Mazindol, sold under the brand name Teronac and Sanorex, is an FDA approved diet pill prescribed for short term use -- typically between six to 12 weeks. Mazindol affects neurotransmitters in the brain and stimulates the central nervous system; in this regard, it is similar to a class of drugs known as amphetamines. Scientists are not sure exactly how mazindol acts to decrease appetite. Common side effects of mazindol include elevated blood pressure, insomnia, and nervousness. Typically, patients regain weight after discontinuation of mazindol or after several weeks on mazindol as appetite returns to normal.

Efficacy of Diet Pills

FDA approved diet pills are effective in weight reduction and can decrease weight-related illnesses, such as diabetes. A randomized controlled trial published in the January 2004 issue of "Diabetes Care" found that orlistat decreased weight over a four year period and decreased new cases of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors. After cessation of drug therapy, rebound weight gain is not uncommon. The National Institutes of Health recommends behavior modification and lifestyle changes for patients being treated with diet pills for weight loss. Talk to your doctor to see if diet pills are right for you.