Know More About Prescription Weight Loss Drugs

Health & FitnessSeptember 24, 2017

Eating less and moving more is the basic funda of losing weight which is really going to last. However, some people choose prescription weight loss drugs for assistance.

But still, you have to focus on diet and exercise plan in spite of taking these drugs, which is indeed not for everyone.

Usually, doctors prescribe them to those whose BMI is 30 or higher, or even if it is 27 and then your conditions may be related to your weight, such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

Here are some of the most common prescription weight loss drugs that you should know.

Before you start taking weight loss drugs, let your doctor know about your medical history. Now, this may include allergies; medicines or supplements you are taking even if they are herbal; whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or even if you are planning to get pregnant soon.

Belviq

Belviq curbs your appetite.

Is it approved for long-term use? Yes.

Common side effects are: The most common side effects in individuals who don’t suffer from diabetes are dizziness, headache, nausea, fatigue, constipation, and dry mouth.

While those who have diabetes may suffer from low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), back pain, headache, cough, and fatigue.

Women who are planning to get pregnant or are pregnant shouldn’t take Belviq.

Things you should know: If you still don’t lose 5% of your weight even after taking Belviq for 12 weeks, probably you should stop then because the FDA says so.

Contrave

This drug is the combination of two drugs, bupropion, and naltrexone, in an extended-release formula. Naltrexone is approved for treating opioid dependency and alcohol. Bupropion is approved for treating seasonal affective disorder, depression, and helps in quitting smoking.

Is it approved for long-term use? Yes.

Common side effects are: The most common side effects are nausea, headache, constipation, vomiting, insomnia, dizziness, dry mouth, and diarrhea. Contrave comes with a warning note about the rise in risk of suicidal thoughts and signs associated with bupropion. It also notes serious neuropsychiatric issues associated with bupropion have also been reported. Contrave even causes seizures and should be avoided by those who have seizure disorders. The drug also increases the blood pressure and heart rate.

Things you should know: If there is no loss of 5% of your weight after 12 weeks of Contrave intake, you need to stop it, because it does not work for you, as per the FDA.