Statistics reveal that approximately 45% of individuals actively try to lose weight. However, this process can be daunting and requires altering lifestyle habits beyond simply eating less and exercising more.
Some individuals require extra help when trying to lose weight efficiently and maintain healthy body sizes over time. Prescription medicines designed specifically to help with weight loss could prove invaluable when dealing with obesity or health conditions caused by excess body mass.
In this article, we’ll give an introduction to medications designed for treating obesity by providing information about who might need them, their various forms available, potential risks or side effects as well as any considerations when taking them.
Understanding Prescription Weight Loss Medications
Weight loss medications that require a valid doctor’s prescription are designed for people who haven’t seen results with only diet and exercise alone. They’re usually suggested to those with a BMI of 30 or greater or those who also suffer from hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and sleep apnea-related health problems like hypertension. Their purpose is to assist weight loss by decreasing hunger pangs while improving satiety feelings or changing nutrient intake patterns.
Normally, a healthcare provider chooses to employ medicines to reduce weight. They will assess many factors, such as the patient’s health status, the desired amount of weight to be lost, and possible risks involved.
You can’t rely on these drugs alone as they won’t be a magic solution. They need to be used along with a balanced diet and regular exercise. The goal of these medicines is to help get over biological problems connected with weight loss for people who have already attempted other ways but have not reached their aim yet.
Common Prescription Weight Loss Medications
Depending on your goals, needs, and starting point for weight loss, your doctor may suggest various forms of prescription weight loss medications:
Ozempic/Semaglutide Injections
Ozempic and semaglutide injections are prescription medications used for weight loss and type 2 diabetes management.
They work by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone and decreasing appetite while increasing feelings of fullness, thus leading to significant weight loss when combined with diet and exercise. Before taking them, it’s best to speak to a healthcare provider to see if Ozempic will work with your weight-loss plan.
Additionally, they should only be purchased from reputable providers, preferably ones in your area. For instance, if you live in Massachusetts, look for reputable semaglutide and Ozempic Massachusetts-based providers who will give you peace of mind, ensuring that you’re getting top-quality for your money’s worth.
Orlistat
Orlistat is an oral weight loss medication prescribed and sold over the counter that works by inhibiting the absorption of dietary fats into the intestinal tract, thus decreasing caloric intake and leading to weight loss and maintaining it over time.
When combined with a low-fat diet and exercise, it has proven successful at helping users shed modest pounds with only minor side effects, including possible upset stomach or discomfort. Once again, speak to a medical professional before taking any further steps.
Phentermine-Topiramate
Phentermine-Topiramate is a prescription weight loss medication composed of the combination of appetite suppressant phentermine with topiramate. When taken together, it reduces appetite while helping promote weight loss.
When combined with diet and exercise, it has proven significantly effective at contributing towards significant weight reduction. Common side effects of this medication may include dry mouth, constipation, or insomnia.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Prescription weight loss medications come with risks and side effects similar to any medication. Common examples are nausea, difficulty passing stool, diarrhea, dry mouth, and difficulty sleeping.
There could also be more serious risks, such as an increase in heartbeat rate or blood pressure, as well as liver harm. It’s essential that before beginning any weight loss regimen, you speak to a healthcare provider regarding possible side effects before making your choice.
Weight loss medications could interact negatively with other prescriptions and cause adverse side effects. For instance, taking appetite suppressants in combination with stimulating drugs increases heart and blood vessel issues and should always be disclosed to healthcare providers so they can prevent potentially hazardous interactions.
Bottom Line
Weight loss medications may be an invaluable asset to those struggling to shed unwanted weight through traditional means alone. Medications such as semaglutide injections, orlistat and phentermine-topiramate all offer various mechanisms that support weight loss. However, they come with potential risks and side effects that require careful consideration by individuals along their weight loss journeys. Work closely together with a medical professional and a nutritionist who will help you achieve your weight loss goals over time with fewer risks than going on this journey on your own.