Your Quick Guide To Prescription Weight Loss Drugs

Weight loss program and methods have created a frenzy in our society. There is no surprise that various diet plans and exercise programs, surgical methods and prescription drugs for weight loss is being introduced every month. It is the responsibility of the consumer to know the effects of the prescribed weight loss drugs to our body. Our doctors may tell us qualified opinions about the prescribed drugs because they are given commissions by these drug companies. The best thing that you can do is to do your own research on the effects of each prescribed weight loss drug given to you by your doctor.

A prescription drug for weight loss is one of the numerous methods that can help an obese person lose weight. If losing weight can not be achieved by dieting and exercise alone, there is a number of FDA - approved drugs in the market that you can talk to your doctor about that will help you achieve your weight loss goal.

Weight loss drugs are categorized based on the action of the drug in the body. Some are appetite suppressants while some are lipase inhibitors. Xenical (Orlistat) is categorized in a new class of obesity drug. Lipase is the enzyme that works by breaking down dietary fat for the body's consumption. The drug Xenical interferes with your lipase enzymes thus reducing fat absorption. These undigested fats are not absorbed in our digestive system, instead are eliminated in the body. Its side effects may include diarrhea, flatulence and leakage of oily stool. Meridia (Sibutramine) categorized under appetite suppressant under weight loss drug has been FDA approved that is believed to work by increasing a certain chemical in your brain thus inhibiting your appetite control center. Meridia is not prescribed to persons who have uncontrolled high blood pressure and have had a history of cardiovascular problems because its adverse effects include an increase in your blood pressure and heart rate.

There are also speed-like drugs like Bontril, Ionamin and Adipex - P which is only recommended for short term use because they can increase heart rate and can cause addiction. You have to consult a doctor and have an in depth assessment with your health care provider so that your medical history and present health condition will be known and the correct prescription of the drug will be given to you rather than going out on your own with so limited information on the drug.