The best way to lose weight - Weight Loss Drugs
Adults who find diet and exercise is not enough to lose weight may take weight-loss drugs. Doctors sometimes prescribe these drugs for people who have a :
- BMI (body mass index) greater than 30 with no health problems (such as diabetes, heart disease) or
- BMI greater than 27 with two or more health problems
Weight-loss drugs can help people lose weight and keep it off. Weight-loss drugs are not for everyone, but you can talk with your doctor to see if one might be right for you. If you take a weight-loss drug, your doctor is likely to suggest that you eat less and increase the amount of activity you do each day.
You will need a prescription from the doctor for most weight-loss drugs. There are some over-the-counter weight-loss drugs that do not need a prescription. Always talk to a doctor before taking any new drug, dietary supplement or over-the-counter medicine (OTC) to make sure it is right for you. Some dietary supplements or OTC drugs may not work right with other medicines you take. They might even be harmful if you take them together. You should ask your doctor or pharmacist if there is anything you need to know about how your drugs work together.
Here are some prescription weight loss drugs :
Orlistat (Xenical)
This drug works by blocking some of the fat in food from being stored in your body. Instead, the fat passes through your body. This type of weight loss drug can be used for up to 2 years. (Some other weight loss drugs can only be used for a few weeks). You can get Orlistat in small doses without needing a prescription. It is always a good idea to talk with your doctor before taking this or any drug.
Phentermine
This drug works by making you feel less hungry so you eat fewer calories. This drug is normally used for only a few weeks.
Sibutramine (Meridia)
This drug tells your brain you are full so you eat less. This weight loss drug can be used for up to 2 years.