Weight Loss Pills That Actually Work.Lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity, are essential for long-term weight loss and maintenance. Some weight loss medications can be effective when used in conjunction with these practices, but they should always be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Weight Loss Pills That Actually Work
As of my last training data in September 2021, several weight loss pills have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for weight management, based on the evidence of their efficacy and safety:
- Orlistat (Alli, Xenical): Works by inhibiting the absorption of fats from the digestive system.
- Phentermine-Topiramate (Qsymia): A combination of two drugs that suppress appetite and increase feelings of fullness.
- Buproprion-Naltrexone (Contrave): Targets the brain to increase feelings of fullness and decrease appetite.
- Liraglutide (Saxenda): An injectable medication that works similarly to natural hormones in the gut to decrease hunger.
- Semaglutide (Wegovy): Like Saxenda, it’s an injectable and affects hunger. As of 2021, it was one of the latest to receive FDA approval for weight management.
- Phentermine: An appetite suppressant. Because of potential side effects, it’s often prescribed on its own for short-term use.
- Benzphetamine (Didrex): Another appetite suppressant.
- Diethylpropion: Prescribed on a short-term basis to suppress appetite.
- Lorcaserin (Belviq): Initially approved by the FDA, but was withdrawn from the market in 2020 due to concerns about increased cancer risk.
- Sibutramine (Meridia): It was available earlier but was withdrawn from the market in 2010 due to cardiovascular concerns.
While some of these medications can be effective, they also come with potential side effects. It’s crucial to discuss any weight loss medication with a doctor to understand its risks and benefits fully.
Lastly, it’s worth noting that there are many over-the-counter supplements and diet pills that claim to help with weight loss. Many of these are not backed by strong scientific evidence, and some can even be harmful. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement or medication.