With so many so called “miracle drugs†available on the market it is easy to buy into the dream that there is indeed a pill that will make you shed the excess weight like a snake shedding the skin – completely effortlessly. And while there are weight loss drugs that actually work doctors tend to prescribe them to people who have weight related health problems. It is essential to stress that regardless if you are trying to loose the weight for perfectly cosmetic reasons or you have weight related health problems, no pill, miracle or a common one, will make you reap the benefits like the good old physical activity and healthy diet. Yes it does take time, perseverance and patience, however it is because of the change in habits and habitual thinking and introducing new patterns into your behavior that the combination of physical activity and healthy diet work in the long haul.
When should weight loss drugs be considered? First and foremost it is not advisable to take the weight loss drugs of your own accord and without a doctor’s consultation. In case change in the diet and exercise routine has not helped with the weight loss then weight loss drugs might have be taken. Also in case your BMI (Body Mass Index) is over 27 and there are medical conditions due to obesity to consider (such as diabetes, sleep apnea or high blood pressure) or in case the BMI is higher then 30.
In United States the Food and Drug Agency has so far approved 2 weight loss drugs, which work in different ways and have different side effects.
Xenical (also known as Orlistat) prevents the absorption of fat in the intestines (side effects include frequent bowel movements, bloating, diarrhea and abdominal pain).
Meridia (also known as Sibutramine) works on brain chemicals and you get a feeling you have eaten enough more quickly (side effects include high blood pressure, dry mouth, constipation, headaches and insomnia).
These 2 drugs are prescribed as an aid to long-term weight loss. There are other drugs that work in the short term, which are mostly appetite suppressants, however they have not be subjected to tests in long term studies, so their effects are temporary.
Considering weight loss drugs is a serious business, as it might mean you will have to take them for life, as much of the weight returns once you stop taking them. And most of these drugs are not tested in the long-term studies, so the long-term side effects are generally unknown. Do all you can and make an effort to eat healthier food, exercise regularly and make all the necessary changes in your lifestyle. In case that does not work, consider the help of weight loss drugs in consultation with your doctor.