Doctors in the United States typically prescribe appetite suppressants such as phentermine to people who need to lose a significant amount of weight, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. But men with high blood pressure cannot safely take such medications, as the drugs may increase blood pressure. Since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not specifically labeled any diet drugs as ideal for men with high blood pressure, you should talk to your doctor before taking any weight loss supplement or pill.
Prescription Orlistat
Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor which stops your body from fully digesting the fat in the food you eat, according to PubMed Health. Unlike some other diet pills, orlistat does not affect your blood pressure. The prescription-strength of this weight loss drug may help you lose 5 to 7 lbs. more each year than you would by just dieting and exercising. You should not take it before eating meals with more than 15 g of fat, because you risk suffering from gas that leaves oil on your underwear, uncontrollable bowel movements, stomachaches and fatty stools.
Over-the-Counter Orlistat
You might decide to buy a weaker strength of orlistat, which is sold over-the-counter. If you eat low-fat meals and exercise regularly while taking it, you should lose an additional 3 to 5 lbs. each year, according to MayoClinic.com. In rare cases, however, orlistat may cause serious liver injury. As of 2011, the FDA was investigating reports of this rare complication. If you experience light-colored stools, dark-colored urine or jaundice, immediately call a doctor.
Bupropion as a Diet Drug
If you must avoid blood pressure-increasing appetite suppressants such as phentermine, your doctor may prescribe the antidepressant bupropion "off label" to help you lose weight, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Bupropion is also effective in helping people stop smoking. In addition to decreasing your appetite, bupropion may produce unpleasant side effects such as dry mouth and constipation.
Seizure Medications as Diet Pills
Some seizure medications will decrease your appetite while not impacting your blood pressure, so your doctor may prescribe this type of medication as a diet drug. The medications topiramate, zonisamide or metformin may help you lose weight, notes the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. You may experience side effects such as a metallic taste in your mouth, nausea, drowsiness or headache.
