Fda-approved Weight Loss Pills

For ideal weight loss, combine a nutritionally balanced diet with consistent exercise, recommends MayoClinic.com. This is simple in theory but not always in practice. If you have dozens of pounds to lose and are in a constant battle with your weight, your doctor may prescribe an FDA-approved weight loss pill to nudge you on your way to achieving long-lasting results.

Approved Medications

Appetite suppressants and lipase inhibitors are the two main categories of FDA-approved medications for weight loss. Appetite suppressants, such as phentermine and phendimetrazine, work by one of two means: increasing feelings of fullness or decreasing your overall appetite. The FDA has approved these medications for use for only a few weeks. The lipase inhibitor orlistat, which helps the body absorb less dietary fat, was FDA approved in 1999 for longer-term use, though it may not be safe or effective for more than two years, according to the Weight-control Information Network. In 2007, a reduced-strength version of orlistat, called Alli, was approved for over-the-counter sale.

Changes

The FDA has the ability to take weight loss medications from the market if follow-up studies find a link to health risks. For instance, an appetite suppressant called sibutramine was once FDA approved but was taken off the market in 2010 after research linked it to a risk of serious heart problems such as nonfatal heart attacks. As of 2011, the FDA is reviewing orlistat after receiving reports linking it to liver injury. Consult your physician if you're taking orlistat and experience symptoms such as yellowed skin, brown urine, fatigue and fever.

Other Risks

In some cases, FDA-approved medications can cause nonlethal but unpleasant side effects. Appetite suppressants may cause heart palpitations, dizziness, increased anxiety and sleeplessness. Orlistat and Alli may cause side effects such as oily anal discharge, loose stools, abdominal pain, gas, and increased bowel movement frequency and urgency. You and your doctor should decide whether the benefits outweigh potential side effects and further health risks before you invest in a prescription or over-the-counter pill.

Considerations

Just the fact that the FDA approves a pill does not make the pill a cure-all for weight problems. Any medication you take to hasten weight loss should be accompanied by healthy changes such as a low-calorie diet, regular physical activity and behavior therapy. If you don't commit to these changes, you are less likely to reach your goal weight or maintain a healthy weight once you're done taking the medication. Also consider practicalities such as the cost of treatment. Your insurance plan may not cover a weight-loss drug or may want prior authorization before it will cover the cost, according to MayoClinic.com.

Warning About OTC Pills

You may be interested in trying an over-the-counter weight loss pill if you don't qualify to take prescription medication or if you can't justify the expense of the medication. Aside from FDA-approved Alli, over-the-counter weight loss pills fall under the "dietary supplement" umbrella, which means the FDA doesn't monitor their effectiveness or safety. These products may also interfere with a prior health condition or a medication you're taking for that condition, so have a conversation with your physician about a pill of interest before you invest.