Do you have chronic health issues due to obesity? You must have tried dieting and working out but couldn’t lose adequate weight. If this is the case, a prescription weight loss medication may be the right choice for you.
However, you should know that prescription weight loss medicines are used along with diet and exercise. Let’s read the blog to the end to learn more about these weight loss drugs!
Who Is Eligible for Weight Loss Medications?
If you can’t lose weight through diet and workout, your doctor may suggest a weight loss medicine for you. Also, you must meet the following:
- Your BMI is greater than 27 and you have a chronic medical issue associated with being overweight, like high blood pressure or diabetes.
- Your BMI is greater than 30.
Your doctor will consider your health issues and medical history before recommending a medication. Then he will discuss the pros and cons of prescription weight loss medicines.
You must note that everybody is not a candidate for these medicines. For instance, if you want to conceive, are pregnant, or are a breastfeeding mom, you should not use these weight loss drugs.
Things to Know About Weight Loss Medications
Moderate side effects, like diarrhea, constipation, or nausea, are common. They may be reduced over time. Chronic side effects can rarely occur. Therefore, you should discuss treatment options in detail with your doctor.
Weight loss medications can be costly, and insurance doesn't always pay for them. So, ask your insurance agency about the coverage. Many people regain some of the lost weight if they stop consuming these medicines. However, follow healthy lifestyle habits to restrict weight gain.
FDA-Approved Weight Loss Medications
The US FDA has approved four weight loss medications for long-term use:
- Orlistat (Xenical)
- Liraglutide (Saxenda)
- Phentermine-Topiramate (Qsymia)
- Bupropion-Naltrexone (Contrave)
Most prescription weight loss medicines work by suppressing appetite or boosting feelings of fullness. A few do both. Orlistat is an exception. It functions by interrupting fat absorption.
1. Orlistat
You can get Orlistat in a lowered-strength form without a prescription. It can lead to troublesome gastrointestinal side effects like loose stools and flatulence. You must follow a low-fat diet while consuming this drug.
2. Liraglutide
This drug can be used to manage diabetes. Unlike other weight-loss medicines, Liraglutide is given by injection. Nausea and vomiting are some of its side effects.
3. Phentermine-Topiramate
It’s a combination of an anticonvulsant and a weight-loss drug. Phentermine can work like an amphetamine. Some of its possible side effects are insomnia, increased blood pressure and heart rate, nervousness, constipation. Phentermine is approved for short-term use.
4. Bupropion-Naltrexone
Bupropion-Naltrexone is a combination medication. Naltrexone can treat opioid and alcohol dependence. Bupropion is a quit-smoking aid and an antidepressant. Some common side effects include constipation, headaches, increased blood pressure, and nausea.
Final Thoughts
Prescription weight loss medications are not an easy answer to weight loss. However, they may help you follow some important lifestyle habits to lose weight and enhance your health. Contact Fidelity if you need to get rid of your overweight using these weight loss drugs.
