Are you an adult who has serious health problems because of your weight? Have you tried diet and exercise but haven’t been able to lose enough weight? If you answered yes to these questions, a prescription weight-loss drug may be a choice for you. Prescription drugs are medicines that a health care provider prescribes for you. Unlike over-the-counter options, these require a medical consultation and cannot be purchased directly from a store shelf. However, it’s important to understand that prescription weight loss drugs are a complement to, not a replacement for, a healthy diet and exercise.
Who Can Take Weight-Loss Drugs?
Your healthcare provider may suggest a weight-loss drug if:
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Your Body Mass Index (BMI) is greater than 30 (classified as obesity).
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Your BMI is over 27 and you have a serious obesity-related health condition, such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
Before prescribing any medication, your provider will evaluate your overall health, weight history, and personal challenges. They will also explain the benefits and potential side effects of each option.
Note: Prescription weight-loss drugs are not recommended for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive.
How Effective Are Weight-Loss Drugs?
Long-term use of these medications (over 12 weeks) typically leads to more significant weight loss compared to a placebo. When combined with lifestyle changes, prescription drugs can help reduce total body weight by 3% to 12% more than lifestyle changes alone.
While this may seem modest, even a 5% to 10% reduction in body weight can offer meaningful health improvements, such as lowering:
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Blood pressure
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Blood sugar levels
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Triglycerides (fats in the blood)
Things to Know Before You Start
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Side effects like nausea, constipation, or diarrhea are common but often decrease over time.
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Serious side effects are rare but possible, which is why careful monitoring is important.
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These medications can be costly, and not all insurance plans cover them—check with your provider.
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Weight regain may occur after stopping the medication, but maintaining healthy habits can help prevent this.
How Long Will You Take the Drug?
The duration depends on your results. If you’ve lost at least 5% of your body weight after 3 to 6 months, your provider might continue the treatment long term. If not, they may recommend a different approach.
FDA-Approved Prescription Weight-Loss Drugs
Six drugs have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for long-term weight loss:
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Bupropion-naltrexone (Contrave)
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Liraglutide (Saxenda)
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Orlistat (Xenical, Alli)
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Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia)
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Semaglutide (Wegovy)
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Setmelanotide (Imcivree)
Bupropion-naltrexone
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Combines an antidepressant and an anti-addiction drug.
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May raise blood pressure and has a suicide risk warning.
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Common side effects: nausea, constipation, headache.
Liraglutide
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Also treats diabetes.
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Taken as a daily injection.
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May cause nausea and vomiting.
Orlistat
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Also available over-the-counter as Alli.
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Requires a low-fat diet.
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May cause loose stools and gas.
Phentermine-topiramate
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Combines a stimulant and an anticonvulsant.
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Side effects include insomnia, constipation, increased heart rate, and birth defect risk.
Semaglutide
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A weekly injection is also used for type 2 diabetes.
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It can cause nausea, fatigue, headache, and stomach pain.
Setmelanotide
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Approved only for rare genetic obesity disorders in children over 6 and adults.
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Side effects: skin reactions, nausea, sexual effects, depression.
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Not safe for children under 6.
Bottom Line
Prescription weight-loss drugs are not a quick fix, but they can be a valuable tool to help support your long-term health goals when combined with a consistent and healthy lifestyle.
If you’re considering weight-loss treatments, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced and reputable medical professional.
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