Appetite suppressant medications are used in the prevention and treatment of extreme obesity. Obesity is a serious and often chronic health condition that can exasperate existing medical problems as well as create them. There may be an underlying thyroid, heart or other condition that needs to be addressed before a weight loss program and exercise should be initiated. Appetite suppressant medications may also interfere with the absorption of other drugs. Before starting any diet or weight loss program, consult with a doctor first.
Phentermine
Phentermine, also marketed as Lonamin or Adipex-P, is an appetite suppressant. Its primary function in the body is to reduce appetite and ideally control how much food is taken in. For medications in this category, Drugs.com states that when used with the addition of lifestyle changes such as better eating habits and exercise, phentermine and others like it can be very successful. Side effects include changes in libido, constipation, diarrhea, insomnia, dizziness, dry or strange taste in the mouth, euphoria, headaches, impotence, anxiety or gastrointestinal upset.
Orlistat
Orlistat, also marketed as Alli or Xenical, is an alternative appetite suppressant medication that has the additional benefit of blocking the absorption of a portion of dietary fat consumed throughout a day. According to Medline Plus, orlistat is the only type of weight loss aid approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the United States. Orlistat can be used to initiate changes in appetite and desire to eat trans-fatty foods due to the unpleasant side effects consuming these foods will create. Used with proper diet and an exercise program, orlistat can maintain weight loss and prevent weight gain after goals have been met and lifestyle changes are in place. Orlistat is safe when taken with most other prescription medications, but some conditions may warrant advisement against its use.
Mazindol
Mazindol, also marketed as Sanorex and Mazanor, is an appetite suppressant. It works similar to other appetite suppressants as it enhances feelings of fullness and satiety. As with the others, side effects can range from mild to severe. These side effects include headache, constipation, dry mouth, heartburn, weakness, back pain, nervousness, cold and flu-like symptoms, insomnia, and painful menstrual periods. Medline Plus adds that mazindol is capable of producing cardiac and gastrointestinal symptoms that could become serious.
Tenuate
Tenuate, or diethylproprion, is an appetite suppressant. All drugs in this class are formulated to promote satiety and reduce food intake. Side effects listed with tenuate by Health Digest include heart arrhythmia, chest pain, migraine, trouble breathing, skin rash or hives, blurred vision, confusion, hallucinations, cold and flu-like symptoms, uncontrollable body movements or seizure activity, dry mouth, altered taste in the mouth, nervousness, trembling of hands, changes in sexual libido, diarrhea, constipation, gastrointestinal upset and insomnia. Those taking prescription medications for any condition are strongly advised to consult with their attending physician before starting products of this nature.
Member Comments