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0 Losing weight is a priority for many people today, especially as obesity rates and related health conditions continue to rise in California and across the United States.
Traditional approaches to weight loss, including diet and exercise, are essential but can be challenging to maintain alone, especially for those with metabolic issues or other health conditions that make weight loss difficult. For this reason, medical weight loss options have grown in popularity, providing a potential solution to complement lifestyle changes.
This guide will examine modern weight loss medications and their mechanisms to help you make informed choices.
What Are Modern Weight Loss Medications?
Weight loss medications, often called anti-obesity drugs, are designed to help individuals achieve and maintain a healthier weight. They are usually prescribed to those who have yet to have success with diet and exercise alone or for individuals with medical conditions that require weight loss.
Most of these medications require a prescription intended for long-term use and lifestyle changes for lasting results.
How Do Weight Loss Medications Work?
Modern weight loss medications work in different ways to support weight loss. The most common mechanisms include:
- Suppressing Appetite: Some medications reduce hunger signals, helping users feel complete with less food.
- Increasing Metabolism: A few drugs increase the body’s energy expenditure, which can support faster weight loss.
- Blocking Fat Absorption: Certain medications prevent the body from absorbing some of the fat from consumed foods, leading to fewer calories stored as fat.
Let’s look at these mechanisms in more detail.
Appetite Suppressants
Appetite-suppressing medications are among the most common options for weight loss. They typically work by altering chemicals in the brain, particularly those that influence hunger. Medicines that affect appetite include:
- Phentermine – Approved by the FDA for short-term use, phentermine is one of the most commonly prescribed appetite suppressants. It works by stimulating the release of chemicals that control hunger, allowing individuals to feel full sooner and eat less overall.
- Liraglutide – Originally used for diabetes management, liraglutide has been approved for weight loss under the brand name Saxenda. It mimics a hormone called GLP-1, which regulates hunger and is administered daily. Research shows it can reduce appetite and improve blood sugar control in those with type 2 diabetes.
- Semaglutide – Another GLP-1 receptor agonist, semaglutide (sold as Wegovy for weight loss) is taken once weekly and works similarly to liraglutide. Studies have shown that it can significantly reduce body weight, especially with lifestyle changes.
These medications can be helpful for those who struggle with frequent cravings or emotional eating, though they should be taken under close medical supervision.
Metabolism Boosters
Increasing the body’s metabolism can help burn more calories even while at rest, supporting weight loss. Here are some common metabolism-boosting medications:
- Phentermine-Topiramate – This combination drug (brand name Qsymia) not only suppresses appetite but also increases metabolism. Phentermine works on hunger, while topiramate, often used for migraines and seizures, enhances feelings of fullness and can increase calorie burn.
- Bupropion-Naltrexone – Known by the brand name Contrave, this combination works on brain chemistry to reduce hunger and improve energy expenditure. Bupropion is an antidepressant that also helps reduce cravings, while naltrexone is often used in addiction treatment to reduce reward-based eating behaviors.
It’s essential to use these medications only as directed. They may have side effects and should be monitored by healthcare professionals.
Fat Absorption Inhibitors
Fat absorption inhibitors block enzymes that help the body absorb fat from food. The most commonly prescribed medication in this category is:
- Orlistat – Available both over the counter as Alli and as a prescription under the name Xenical, orlistat works by inhibiting an enzyme called lipase. Lipase helps break down fat, so by blocking it, orlistat prevents about 25% of the fat from being absorbed by food. This undigested fat is then eliminated from the body. Side effects may include digestive changes as the unabsorbed fat moves through the system.
Fat absorption inhibitors may be a good option for individuals who consume a higher-fat diet, as it allows them to reduce the calorie impact of these foods.
Considerations and Potential Side Effects
Before considering weight loss medications, consulting with a healthcare provider is essential. Weight loss medications are generally recommended for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher or 27 or higher if other health conditions are related to weight, such as diabetes or hypertension.
Some potential side effects of these medications include:
- Nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort
- Increased heart rate or blood pressure
- Mood changes or sleep disturbances
Medications should complement, not replace, a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
Key Takeaways
Modern weight loss medications can offer valuable support for those struggling to lose weight through lifestyle changes alone. Various mechanisms allow these medications to provide tailored options that work well with diet and exercise.
If you’re considering weight loss medications, speak with a Peak Performance Health and Wellness healthcare provider. By exploring all options, you can find a safe and effective path to achieve your health goals and improve your quality of life.
