Weight loss medications are designed to help individuals achieve weight loss by reducing appetite, increasing feelings of fullness, or decreasing the absorption of fat in the body. These medications are typically used in conjunction with diet and exercise for individuals who have not been able to lose weight through lifestyle changes alone. Common weight loss medications include:
Orlistat (Xenical, Alli): Blocks the absorption of dietary fat in the intestines, leading to reduced calorie intake and weight loss.
Phentermine (Adipex-P, Lomaira): Suppresses appetite and increases energy expenditure, leading to reduced calorie intake and weight loss.
Lorcaserin (Belviq): Acts on serotonin receptors in the brain to promote feelings of fullness and reduce appetite.
Phentermine/topiramate (Qsymia): A combination medication that suppresses appetite and increases feelings of fullness.
Bupropion/naltrexone (Contrave): A combination medication that works on brain chemistry to reduce food cravings and increase metabolism.
Liraglutide (Saxenda): Mimics the effects of GLP-1, a hormone that regulates appetite, leading to reduced calorie intake and weight loss.
Sibutramine: Suppresses appetite by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain, but has been withdrawn from the market due to safety concerns.