Prescription weight loss drugs are typically used as a part of a physician-monitored weight loss program. Such programs are designed to help seriously overweight and obese individuals lose weight and decrease health risks related to unhealthy diet and weight. Prescription weight loss medications are only available to individuals who face serious health risks due to their weight and a doctor must assess a patient to confirm that he meets the criteria for use.
Medication Types
Medications include appetite suppressants, such as phentermine, diethylpropion, and phendimetrazine which reduce a patient's urge to eat, and are used for short term periods of up to twelve weeks. A liphase inhibitor, such as orlistat, which restricts the digestion and absorption of fats in the digestive system, can be used for up to a year to promote weight loss.
Recommended Use
These medications are recommended for use in patients who have a body mass index greater than 30 or a body mass index greater than 27 and additional health issues such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Most patients who are prescribed these medications have been unable to lose weight with diet and exercise alone, and are encourage to participate in a medical weight loss program that includes nutritional and behavioral counseling as well as exercise.
Side Effects
Appetite suppressants can raise blood pressure and heart rate, and as such, use in patients with heart conditions must be carefully monitored. In addition, appetite suppressants can cause nervousness, dizziness, and insomnia. Liphase inhibitors tend to cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as gas, intestinal cramps, and oily stool. Liphase inhibitors may also block the absorption of vitamins and minerals, so it is important to take multivitamins two hours before or after taking the medication.
Expert Insight
Choosing the correct medication is an important process that should only be done under the close supervision of a doctor. Individuals who take prescription weight loos medications should be closely monitors for changes in blood pressure, heart rate, or vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Experts at the Weight-control Information Network and the Mayo Clinic stress that these medications should only be used as a part of a comprehensive weight loss program that will encourage healthy diet and exercise over the long term.
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