Pills and Weightloss

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American's are over-weight. We make great food but its filled with so many things that are just not good for us. People really don't get the hint let alone the understanding of eating certain foods in moderation and of course how to exercise. Drug companies of course have found medications that have been thrown out into the world to those wanting that quick fix to help their over-eating patterns. There are some good supplements to help people get on the path of losing weight but when it comes to a pill, there comes side effects.

Before you go and hunt down a doctor to write a script for these medications, here is some things you may not know about these drugs:

Now there are four main types of weight loss medications. 1. Amphetamines/Stimulants 2. Appetite Suppressants 3. Absorption Blockers 4. Over-the-counter (diuretics, mild stimulants, laxatives)

Amphetamines/Stimulants 

Example of this would be Adipex-P

Drugs in this classification work by increasing metabolism. The higher the metabolism, the more calories you burn when doing anything physical. The Pros of this would be a rapid weight loss and a noticeable effect. This of course is great for those that have struggled with diets and don't see any immediate changes. Without that immediate change, people tend to give up their diet plan because they don't see it working. The negative side of this drug classification will be a possible dependence to it. Higher risk of hypertension, nervousness and insomnia. There is a restriction on the length of use of this medication because the "therapy" is limited by federal and state laws. You have to have a prescription for this and be under a doctors care. This is not sold over the counter and please don't purchase it from the internet. This is supposed to help you start your weight-loss journey. Not something you go to because you just want 10lbs gone or you just feel like eating anything you want and this is your back up plan. 

Appetite Suppressants

Example of this would be Meridia

The purpose of this medication is to give the body the feeling of being full so you don't over eat. It increases levels of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine which is the feeling of satiety. This isn't addictive which is a great thing and it helps with the control of eating response. The bad side of all of it is that you will be in need of it for a long period of time. Meridia specifically will mimic the side effects that are seen in Prozac, Zoloft and Paxil which means lack of sex drive, lack of emotion, anger issues and depression. There are also multiple drug-drug and drug-disease interactions. 

Absorption Blockers

Example of this would be Xenical

This works by decreasing absorption of dietary fats. Benefits include no effect on the nervous system and it will positively affect cholesterol levels. So need for Cheerios!! Haha! This can also aid in glycemic control so diabetics may find positive changes let alone break free from their disease. With all the pros there are the cons which includes nutritional deficiencies from blockage and non-absorbed fats have to go somewhere which means the yucky stuff (diarrhea, flatus, and leakage) 

Over-the-Counter Medications

This will include diuretics, mild stimulants and laxatives

Here are your easy access medications. You don't need your physician involved so these are the most commonly used. You can find some that will slightly increase metabolism (e.g. caffeine), those that produce diuresis (shredding of water like Diurex) and laxatives (e.g. Senna). Some of these produce a quick result. Best for those that just have annoying water weight or just 10lbs to lose to get the results they want. Realistically most of these medication only provide a short-term effect. They can also cause dehydration/electrolyte imbalances with chronic use. Repeated use of laxatives will screw up your bottom to the point of creating the need to always have to go number 2. There are also cardiovascular effects with high doses of caffeine. 

Overall the best method to lose weight is to eat healthy and exercise. You have to do both. If you have weight issues then you kinda want to look at changing your life style because what your doing isn't helping you. If you choose the medication route then do discuss options with your doctor. Even with all the over the counter medication you need to talk with them. There is another weight loss "medication" that I will go over here soon that doesn't really fit in this breakdown. If you have any questions or want more info then let me know!