The search for an FDA-approved diet pill has been ongoing for years. Many people are looking for a quick and easy solution to their weight loss struggles, and they hope that a pill can provide that solution. However, finding a safe and effective diet pill that is FDA approved can be challenging.
This article will discuss what you need to know about the FDA-approved diet pills, including their effectiveness, potential side effects, and how they work.
What are FDA-Approved Diet Pills?
FDA-approved diet pills are prescription medications designed to help people lose weight. These drugs work by suppressing appetite or increasing metabolism, making it easier for people to lose weight.
Contrary to popular belief, these diet pills aren’t meant to be used as a shortcut to weight loss. They should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional and alongside other weight loss strategies such as a healthy diet and exercise.
Currently, there are only four FDA-approved diet pills on the market. They are:
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Orlistat (Xenical)
Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor that works by blocking the absorption of some of the fat you eat. It is the only FDA-approved weight loss medication available over the counter. The drug prevents enzymes in the digestive system from breaking down fats into smaller molecules that are absorbed into the bloodstream. Instead, the undigested fat passes through the body and is eliminated in bowel movements.
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Lorcaserin (Belviq)
Lorcaserin is a serotonin receptor agonist that works by helping you feel full after eating less food. It helps to reduce cravings for food and promotes feelings of fullness, making it easier to stick to a reduced-calorie diet.
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Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia)
Phentermine-topiramate is a combination of two drugs: phentermine and topiramate. Phentermine is an appetite suppressant, while topiramate is an anticonvulsant that has also been found to help with weight loss. This combination pill can help you eat less, feel full more quickly and for longer, and lose weight.
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Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave)
Naltrexone-bupropion is a combination of two drugs: naltrexone and bupropion. Naltrexone is often used to treat opioid addiction, while bupropion is an antidepressant. Together, they work to reduce cravings for food and increase feelings of fullness, leading to weight loss.
Effectiveness of FDA-Approved Diet Pills
The effectiveness of FDA-approved diet pills varies depending on which drug you take. According to clinical studies, people who take these drugs along with a healthy diet and exercise program may lose between 3% and 9% more weight than those who don’t take the drugs.
Orlistat, for example, has been shown to help people lose up to 6 pounds more than those who don’t take the medication. Lorcaserin has been shown to help people lose up to 5% of their body weight, while phentermine-topiramate has been found to help people lose up to 10% of their body weight.
However, it’s important to note that weight loss results may vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience significant weight loss from these medications.
Potential Side Effects of FDA-Approved Diet Pills
As with any medication, there are potential side effects associated with FDA-approved diet pills. Some common side effects include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Insomnia
More serious side effects can occur as well. For example, orlistat has been associated with rare cases of severe liver injury. Lorcaserin has been linked to an increased risk of cancer, although the FDA has not definitively concluded that the drug causes cancer.
It’s important to discuss the potential side effects of these medications with your healthcare provider before taking them. They can help you weigh the benefits and risks of each drug and determine whether it’s safe for you to take.
How Do FDA-Approved Diet Pills Work?
FDA-approved diet pills work in different ways to help you lose weight. Orlistat, for example, works by blocking the absorption of fat in the digestive system. Lorcaserin helps you to feel full after eating less food, while phentermine-topiramate reduces cravings for food and increases feelings of fullness.
Regardless of how they work, though, these medications are not a magic solution to weight loss. They must be used alongside other weight loss strategies, such as a healthy diet and exercise program.
Conclusion
If you’re struggling to lose weight and are considering an FDA-approved diet pill, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider first. They can help you determine which medication, if any, is right for you and can monitor you.
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