What Are The Drugs That Can Be Taken To Lose Weight?

There are several types of medications that may be used to help people lose weight, including:

• Appetite suppressants:
  These medications—such as phentermine—help to reduce appetite and food cravings, making it easier to stick to a reduced-calorie diet.
• Lipase inhibitors:
  These medications block the action of an enzyme called lipase, which breaks down fat in the intestine. By inhibiting the action of lipase, these medications can reduce the absorption of dietary fat, leading to weight loss. One such example is Orlistat.
• Antidepressants:
  Some antidepressants, such as bupropion and fluoxetine, may cause weight loss as a side effect. However, they are not usually prescribed specifically for weight loss.
• Incretin mimetics:
  These medications, such as liraglutide, help to reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness. They are usually used in people with diabetes who are also trying to lose weight.

It is important to note that weight loss medications are generally only recommended for people who are overweight or obese and have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. These medications should be used in combination with a healthy diet and exercise program, and their use should be monitored by a healthcare provider.

About The Contributor

Dr Rachel Teoh Pui Pui 

Family Physician

Qualifications

MBBS (Spore 2002), Postgraduate Diploma, Postgraduate Diploma in Family M, DIP (Fam Med, 2009), DIP (Derm UK, 2007)