18 Popular Weight Loss Medications 2023 and Supplements Reviewed

18 Popular Weight Loss Medications 2023 There are various options available for weight loss, but some are favor more than others. These comprise specific pills, drugs, and natural supplements. Their purport benefits include aiding in weight loss or simplifying the process when us alongside other techniques. They typically function by one or multiple mechanisms such as.

One can decrease their appetite, resulting in feeling fuller and consuming fewer calories. To take in fewer calories, one can also reduce the absorption of nutrients such as fat. Additionally, increasing fat burning can lead to burning more calories. There are different options available for this, including over-the-counter (OTC) supplements and prescription medications.

18 Popular Weight Loss Medications 2023

It is imperative to consult with a healthcare expert, such as a register dietitian or doctor, before making any changes to your diet or supplement regimen. Additionally, it is recommend to use medications or OTC pills strictly as direct. In order to differentiate between false beliefs and actual facts.

When it comes to shedding extra pounds, prescription weight loss medications such as GLP-1 agonists, orlistat, and setmelanotide have proven to be more effective than numerous over-the-counter alternatives available in the market. This article presents a review of the 18 most commonly us weight loss supplements and medications bas on scientific research.

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18 Popular Weight Loss Medications 2023 Highlight

What medications are approved for weight loss?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has given approval to a variety of drugs for weight loss in cases of overweight and obesity. It is important to note that these medications must be prescribed by a doctor and taken only under medical supervision. Some examples of such drugs can be found in the following trust source:.

• Xenical (orlistat)
• Qsymia (phentermine/topiramate)
• Contrave, a combination of naltrexone and bupropion.
• Liraglutide (Saxenda) and semaglutide (Wegovy) are classified as agonists of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1).
• Imcivree (setmelanotide)
• Phentermine, which is also known as Adipex–P or Lomaira, benzphetamine sold under the brand names Regimex or Didrex, diethylpropion market as Tepanil or Tenuate, and phendimetrazine sold as Bontril are all examples of appetite suppressants.

It is recommend to supplement these drugs with a well-round weight loss meal plan, as they are not an effective permanent remedy for obesity and can result in weight regain over time. Furthermore, these medications have numerous potential adverse effects, some of which may be severe.

Prescription weight loss drugs 18 Popular Weight Loss Medications 2023

Quick look at prescription weight loss medications

• Orlistat is a medication us to aid weight loss in overweight individuals.
• The combination of phentermine and topiramate.
• The medication naltrexone/bupropion.
• Agonists that mimic the effects of GLP-1.
• Setmelanotide
• Substances or products that reduce or curb one’s hunger are commonly known as appetite suppressants.

1. Orlistat (Xenical) 18 Popular Weight Loss Medications 2023

Xenical is a prescription oral drug that goes by the name Orlistat. Additionally, it is sold under the brand Alli as an over-the-counter medication.

Following a medical consultation, a physician has the authority to recommend orlistat. Additionally, certain telehealth services are capable of issuing a prescription for this medication.

Orlistat operates by hindering the function of specific enzymes that are utilize to decompose fats in the digestive tract, thereby decreasing the quantity of calories that are assimilate (according to 2Trust Source).

In a study conduct in 2011 on 80 individuals who were obese, it was found that those who consume orlistat lost an average of 10.3 pounds (lb) or 4.65 kilograms (kg) over a period of six months. Additionally, they observe notable decreases in their body mass index (BMI), abdominal fat, as well as total and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels (3Trust Source).

Possible rephrased text: Orlistat may lead to gastrointestinal problems such as loose or greasy stools, flatulence, and increased defecation. Additionally, it may affect the absorption of certain fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, or K, potentially causing deficiencies (4). To reduce the likelihood and severity of unwante effects, it is generally advise to follow a low-fat diet while using this drug.

2. Phentermine/topiramate (Qsymia)

Qsymia, an oral medication requiring a doctor’s prescription, contains phentermine and topiramate. Phentermine acts as a CNS stimulant and appetite suppressant while topiramate curbs the appetite and increases satiety to promote weight loss.

When it comes to its effectiveness, a study discovered that the use of phentermine and topiramate in combination resulted in an average weight reduction of 17 lb (7.7 kg) while also significantly lowering abdominal fat, blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and cholesterol levels. Furthermore, another review study revealed that when compared to other weight loss medications, individuals who were overweight or obese lost an average of 19.4 lb (8.8 kg) after one year of taking phentermine and topiramate.

Phentermine/topiramate may lead to several side effects, including dry mouth, constipation, and paresthesia (a sensation of pins and needles), which are the most commonly reported ones. Some individuals may experience an inability to sweat, increased body temperature, as well as psychiatric or cognitive disturbances. These side effects have been document in reliable sources.

3. Naltrexone/bupropion (Contrave)

Contrave, an oral medication sold under this name, is a combination of bupropion, an antidepressant, and naltrexone, a substance that can manage alcohol or opioid use disorder (8Trust Source). A healthcare professional can evaluate if Contrave may be suitable for you and provide a prescription. Alternatively, some online services may also offer to prescribe Contrave after a virtual consultation with a medical expert.

Mechanism: While the precise functioning of naltrexone/bupropion remains uncertain, it is thought to facilitate weight loss by impacting specific regions of the brain that decrease food consumption, elevate metabolism, and enhance sensations of satiety (according to an 8Trusted Source). Effectiveness: Bas on a review of four studies, naltrexone/bupropion was found to produce substantial weight loss in comparison to a placebo. Participants shed an average of 11-22 lbs (5-9 kg) over the course of a year (as per a 9Trust Source).

A different analysis reveale comparable results, indicating that the use of naltrexone/bupropion could be advantageous for sustaining weight loss over an extend period (according to a reliable source). Naltrexone/bupropion can trigger side effects such as nausea, constipation, headache, vomiting, dizziness, and insomnia. In addition, it may elevate heart rate and blood pressure levels (as per a trust source).

4. GLP-1 agonists 18 Popular Weight Loss Medications 2023

Liraglutide (Saxenda) and semaglutide (Wegovy) are two GLP-1 agonists approved for weight loss, available as self-administered injections. Liraglutide is taken daily, while Semaglutide is injected once per week. Some other GLP-1 agonists intended for diabetes treatment are also prescribed off-label for weight management.

• Semaglutide is available under the brand names Ozempic or Rybelsus.
• Trulicity, also known as dulaglutide.
• Victoza (liraglutide)
• Byetta is a medication known as exenatide.
• Bydureon BCise (extended-release exenatide)
• Mounjaro, also known as tirzepatide.

GLP-1 agonists require a doctor’s prescription, but certain telehealth services and weight loss programs like Ro Body Program and Calibrate may also provide one if you meet the eligibility criteria. These medications work by slowing stomach emptying, increasing fullness, and reducing glucagon secretion, which regulates appetite.

GLP-1 agonists have been found effective in weight management by multiple studies. For instance, one study showed a 15% reduction in body weight after 68 weeks by taking 2.4mg of semaglutide per week along with lifestyle changes.

A small study showed that people taking liraglutide for 6 months lost an average of 17.2 lb (7.8 kg). However, common side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headaches, increased heart rate, infections, and indigestion may occur.

Severe side effects such as kidney problems, thyroid tumors, gallbladder disease, low blood sugar, and suicidal ideation have been reported with the use of these medications. Further research is needed to determine their long-term effects, including potential weight regain.

5. Setmelanotide (Imcivree)

Imcivree, also known as Setmelanotide is a prescription–only injectable medication that belongs to a class of medications called melanocortin 4 (MC4) receptor agonists. It is approved for treating obesity caused by specific genetic mutations.

Setmelanotide works by increasing the activation of the MC4 receptor in the brain. This can lead to reduced hunger, decreased calorie intake, and increased metabolism, all contributing to weight loss.

Setmelanotide has been found effective in promoting weight loss and reducing hunger in various studies. In a study of 21 participants, around 62% achieved at least 10% weight loss after a year with no serious treatment-related adverse events reported. Another study showed that it significantly improved quality of life as early as 5 weeks after starting treatment in children, adolescents, and adults.

Adverse Reactions: Setmelanotide may cause certain adverse reactions which are commonly observed such as responses at the site of injection, hyperpigmentation, queasiness, cephalalgia, diarrhea, and discomfort in the back or stomach area. Additionally, some patients have experienced weariness, vomiting, and despondency as well (18).

6. Appetite suppressants

Anorectics, also known as appetite suppressants, can help with weight loss. Phentermine (Adipex-P or Lomaira), benzphetamine (Regimex or Didrex), diethylpropion (Tepanil or Tenuate), and phendimetrazine (Bontril) are some of the options available. These medications require a prescription and work by altering neurotransmitter levels in the brain to reduce appetite.

The efficacy of different drugs for obesity was compared in a study involving 3,411 individuals, which reveal that those taking phentermine experienced the greatest percentage of weight loss over a 12-week period. Throughout the duration of the study, participants taking phentermine lost an average of 8.3 lb (3.75 kg) (22Trust Source). In another study conduct in 2015 with 156 people who had obesity, diethylpropion was found to promote an average weight loss of 10.8 lb (4.9 kg) after three months and 17 lb (7.7 kg) after six months (23Trust Source).

It is important to note that these medications are suggest for temporary usage only, as prolonged intake may cause tolerance build-up leading to reduced efficacy (24, 25, 26, 27). While some common side effects of these drugs are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps, there have been reports of severe reactions that necessitate prompt medical attention such as chest pain, shortness of breath and swelling in the lower extremities.

When to talk with a doctor 18 Popular Weight Loss Medications 2023

In case you have exhaust all possible ways to shed some pounds but see no progress on the weighing scale, it would be advisable to seek advice from a healthcare expert such as a doctor or registered dietitian regarding the suitability of weight loss medication for you. It is crucial to note that these pills may have severe side effects and may not be suitable for everyone. Therefore, it is imperative to consult with a professional before taking any weight loss drugs or supplements.

Ro and Calibrate are some of the digital weight loss platforms that incorporate GLP-1 medications in their treatment plans, exclusively for individuals who satisfy specific eligibility requirements. To gain more insight into these weight loss platforms, you may refer to our detailed evaluations of Ro Health and Calibrate.

The bottom line 18 Popular Weight Loss Medications 2023

Numerous weight loss drugs and supplements can be found in the market, both prescription and over-the-counter. However, prescription medications have more robust evidence to back up their efficacy in promoting significant weight loss. To determine which medication is suitable for you and how to integrate it into a healthy weight management plan, seek advice from a reliable healthcare professional like a doctor.

It is crucial to bear in mind that these medications and supplements should not be view as a shortcut to lose weight rapidly. It is advisable to consume them only as per the instructions provide, while complementing them with a well-balanced diet, healthy lifestyle, and consistent physical exercise for optimal outcomes.

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