Obesity is a major health care issue from which a significant portion of the world’s population is suffering. Most of the people who are well aware of the seriousness of this problem try to solve it by dieting and exercise which are pretty much effective methods.
But sometimes, some of these people do not succeed even after continuously following the diet strategy.
The reason is that the causes of obesity vary. These people require some extra treatment like pills or injections for weight loss.
These medicines only treat the root cause of obesity. You’ll have to follow the diet plan and exercise to benefit from the weight loss program.
Weight loss clinic Atlanta GA offer the most effective medication plan by taking into account the patient’s medical history.
Some commonly prescribed drugs for weight loss are:
Orlistat
Mechanism
It inhibits the intestine’s ability to absorb triglycerides by inhibiting pancreatic lipase. Actually, these triglycerides become fatty acids afterward. By using orlistat these triglycerides are egested out of the body.
They reduce fatty acid’s absorption by 30%. If prescribed for a longer period, Orlistat decreases adipose tissue and liver fat in some patients.
Orlistat is prescribed to patients coupled with a low-fat diet. This treatment, if followed regularly can cause excessive weight drop in very less amount of time
Interaction With Others
Orlistat can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins i.e. Vitamin A, D, E, and K. So, a multivitamin capsule is recommended to lessen the side effects.
It decreases cyclosporine absorption in the body. Cyclosporine is given to patients which just had an organ transplant. It can greatly mess your transplant leading to serious medical issues.
Side effects
The most commonly observed side effects of orlistat are:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal Pain
- Oily Stools
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Allergic reactions(in some people)
Phentermine
For better effectiveness, this medicine is also prescribed in conjunction with a diet plan and exercise.
Mechanism
It works by increasing the body’s energy consumption and effects on the nervous system which reduces hunger.
That’s why sudden termination of its use can make you feel tired and depressed. Usually, its small doses are taken 2 or 3 times a day.
It works as a Central nervous system stimulant, reducing the urge to feed.
It is a short-term medicine. Its effects start to decrease after some time. The doctor may adjust the time of taking this medicine after knowing your medical history, if you are already taking methyldopa, guanethidine, etc.
Side Effects
Its side effects include:
- High Blood Pressure
- Angina Pectoris
- Depression and Hallucinations due to overstimulation of CNS
- Dry mouth
- Cramps
- Affects Libido power
Lorcaserin
Mechanism
It is usually prescribed twice a day. It is also one of those medicines that reduce the urge to feed by making your mind realize that you’re full.
A large dose of this medicine is usually not prescribed. It is discontinued if it fails to show results even after 10–12 weeks.
Its use was prohibited in 2020 due to the increased percentage of Cancer among its users. The exact mechanism of these satiety drugs has not been discovered yet.
Side effects
Its side effects are mostly the same as phentermine
- Constipation
- Tiredness
- Body pain
- Depression
- Dry mouth
Reference: Bubolo Medical
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