When it comes to weight loss, many people turn to prescription medications to help them achieve their goals. However, with so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is the most effective for you. Let’s explore what the most effective weight loss prescription might be.
What are Prescription Weight Loss Medications?
Prescription weight loss medications are drugs that are FDA-approved to help individuals lose weight when used in combination with a healthy diet and exercise program. These medications work in various ways, such as by suppressing appetite, increasing metabolism, or blocking fat absorption.
Always speak with your doctor before trying new pills, supplements, or regimens. A study published in 2022 also showed Orlistat’s potential to decrease precursors to cholesterol called oxysterols. This highlights that Orlistat may play a role in overall heart health and weight management. Those who took the highest dose lost the most weight, followed by the lower amount, and then the placebo. In both studies, at least half the Contrave participants lost at least 5 percent of their body weight. Contrave is another FDA-approved prescription-only weight loss medication that combines naltrexone and bupropion.
Sibutramine (Meridia) was removed after it was linked to heart attack and stroke in people at highest risk for them. A few people may lose a great deal of weight on a particular drug, while others may lose little or none. “At present we have no way to predict this response in advance,” Dr. Kaplan says. Fortunately, however, if you don’t respond to one drug, you may do well with another. It often requires trying multiple medications to find the right one for each person. Wegovy works by mimicking the action of a hormone in your body called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Weight Loss Prescription
We eliminated products made with questionable ingredients, such as conjugated linoleic acid. As such, we avoided products formulated with conjugated linoleic acid and those containing ingredients known to produce unwanted effects. First, we examined each product’s active ingredients closely to ensure they were generally safe and backed by scientific evidence of their efficacy as weight-loss aids.
The gel helps to increase satiety, enabling the person to eat less. It is intended for use in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and is also indicated to reduce the risk of weight regain. Topiramate can be combined with phentermine to decrease appetite and cravings. Zepbound was approved in November 2023 for adults with a BMI of 30 or greater.
If a balanced diet and exercise aren’t working, you may want to consider adding a weight reduction supplement to your routine. Using this information, Noom will create a customized weight loss plan with a recommended daily calorie intake and personalized daily lessons. The plan is typically for around 16 weeks, but you can adjust that timeframe depending on your health goals. Not everyone has such dramatic results, and the medicines pose the risk of side effects, like issues with the stomach or intestines. The Costco offering sets up potential price competition for medical weight loss management visits with providers who can oversee care that may include the popular prescription medicines.
Additionally, though they can promote weight loss and may even offer other health benefits, note that these medications are not suitable for everyone and can lead to weight regain once you stop taking them. Phentermine is taken orally and requires a prescription from a doctor or other healthcare professional. Setmelanotide works by increasing the activation of these receptors, leading to reduced hunger, decreased calorie intake, and increased metabolism, all of which could promote weight loss. A doctor can determine whether Contrave may be a good option for you and then provide a prescription.
This means you’d prefer smaller portions and decrease the likelihood of overeating. Instant Knockout recommends taking 1 healthy appetite suppressant with 1 glass of water 4 times daily. Begin by taking the first dose right when you wake up, followed by the second between breakfast and lunch. The third dose should be taken 1 hour after lunch, and the fourth dose 1 hour before dinner. Ensure that your final dose is taken at least 5 hours before you plan to go to sleep.
- Your overall health and medical history
- The potential side effects of the medication
- Your weight loss goals and timeline
- Your lifestyle and ability to adhere to the medication regimen
Commonly Prescribed Weight Loss Medications
- Phentermine: This medication is a stimulant that suppresses appetite and is typically prescribed for short-term use.
- Orlistat: Orlistat works by blocking the absorption of fat in the intestines, leading to weight loss.
- Lorcaserin: Lorcaserin is a serotonin receptor agonist that helps control appetite.
FAQs About Weight Loss Prescriptions
Q: Are weight loss medications safe to use?
A: Weight loss medications can be safe when used under the supervision of a healthcare provider. It is important to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your doctor before starting a new medication.
Q: How long do I need to take weight loss medications?
A: The duration of treatment with weight loss medications varies depending on the individual and their weight loss goals. Some medications are intended for short-term use, while others may be used long-term.
Ultimately, the most effective weight loss prescription for you will depend on your unique circumstances and goals. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential in determining the best course of action for your weight loss journey.
