Medications to Help Lose Weight
Medications to Help Lose Weight
It is estimated that 60% of Americans are overweight. Thirty percent
of this group is classified as obese. The body mass index (BMI) is a
measurement that takes into account both height and weight and is used
to determine overweight and obesity categories. Persons with a BMI
above 25 are generally considered to be overweight, while persons with a
BMI above 30 are considered to be obese. Overweight and obesity are
generally caused by an excess intake of calories relative to calories that
are burned.
Lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, are generally the
first recommendation for weight loss for overweight or obese persons.
Both over-the-counter and prescription medications are available to assist
weight loss when lifestyle modifications have not caused satisfactory
weight loss over an extended period of time. Orlistat, a fat absorption
inhibitor, is now available over-the-counter (Alli) and with a prescription
(Xenical). Sibutramine (Meridia) and phentermine (Adipex) are
available with a prescription. They work to suppress the appetite, although
serious side effects may occur. Although there are also many
weight loss supplements available, these products are not approved by
the FDA and should be used with caution due to the risk for serious
adverse effects.