1. Appetite Suppressants
The most common type of prescription weight loss pill is an appetite suppressant. There are several different brands of appetite suppressants; the most commonly prescribed one is Meridia. Serotonin and catecholamine are two hormones that affect appetite and mood. Appetite suppressants work by increasing these hormones to make your body think it's not hungry.
2. Fat Absorption Inhibitors
The second type of prescription weight loss pill is fat absorption inhibitors. One brand name in this category is Xenical. These types of medications block thirty percent of fat absorption in the intestines. When fat is not absorbed, it does not contribute to calorie intake and essentially functions by decreasing calorie intake. It is most effective when taken with high fat meals.
3. Amount of Weight Lost
The average amount of weight lost when taking prescription diet pills is ten to fifteen percent. This weight loss is usually in combination with a change in eating and exercise habits. Ten to fifteen percent makes a big difference in health and reducing disease risk. However, it is not the miracle that many are looking for in a diet pill. Don't expect these pills to result in a lot of weight lost quickly.
4. Side Effects
Both types of prescription weight loss pills have side effects. Meridia and Xenical are only approved for use for two years or less. Other weight loss drugs are only approved for a few weeks or months.
Unwanted side effects are more likely from fat absorption inhibitors. When fat is not absorbed, it passes through the intestines which can result in oily stools, especially when eating a high fat meal. This side effect creates negative feedback for the person on the medication, making a lower fat meal more desirable in the future.
5. They Don't Work Without a Healthy Diet and Exercise
Just like any other weight loss pill or surgery, prescription diet pills will not work long term without a healthy diet and exercise. Many people want to take these pills as a way to lose weight without changing eating and exercise habits. Since you can't use these pills for more than two years, you will have to make lifestyle changes or the weight will come back after you stop taking the pills. Remember to evaluate your expectations before choosing medical intervention for weight loss.
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