While you can choose from a number of over-the-counter and prescription aids to help you lose weight, U.S. Food and Drug Administration officials have only approved five drugs for weight loss purposes. A number of once-recommended diet drugs such as fenfluramine and ephedra were removed from the market due to safety concerns. Before taking even FDA-approved diet drugs, talk to your doctor about the potential benefits and risks.
Over-the-Counter Orlistat
In 2007, the FDA approved over-the-counter sales of the fat-blocking drug orlistat. This drug, marketed as Alli, traps the fat from the food you eat so that it is not digested in your body, according to PubMed Health. The fat passes out of your body through your bowel movements. If you diet, exercise and take Alli as directed you might lose an additional 3 to 5 lb. each year. However, FDA officials are investigating claims that in rare cases Alli caused dieters severe liver injuries.
Prescription Orlistat
Prescription orlistat, or Xenical, has been available to dieters since 1999, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. This version of orlistat might help you lose an additional 5 to 7 lbs each year. But if you take Xenical and eat high-fat meals, you increase your risk of side effects such as uncontrollable bowel movements, oily gas, loose stools, fatty stools, stomachaches and rectal pain.
Phentermine
The prescription appetite suppressant phentermine is the most commonly prescribed diet drug in the United States, notes the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. You should not take phentermine if you are over the age of 65 or have high blood pressure. Also, you cannot safely take the drug for more than 12 weeks at a time. Phentermine, usually marketed under the brand name Adipex-P, may cause side effects such as sleeplessness, nervousness and increased heart rate and blood pressure.
Diethylpropion or Phendimetrazine
Your doctor might prescribe either diethylpropion or phendimetrazine to help decrease your appetite so you can lose weight, notes the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. However, you should avoid these drugs if you have a history of substance abuse, or are pregnant or nursing. Most doctors only prescribe diethylpropion or phendimetrazine for a few weeks at a time. The drugs may cause side effects such as dizziness, headache, sleeplessness and nervousness.
References
- Weight-Control Information Network; Prescription Medications for the Treatment of Obesity; December 2010
- PubMed Health; Phentermine; January 2011
- Mayo Clinic; Alli Weight-Loss Pill; June 2010
- PubMed Health; Diethylpropion; September 2008
- Mayo Clinic; Appetite Suppressant, Sympathomimetic (Oral Route); November 2010
- PubMed Health; Orlistat; August 2010
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