Photo: Bigstock
Newer drugs, which could also be safer than earlier drugs, have expanded obesity treatment options.
Obesity is now considered greater than a risk factor for other conditions. It is a disease in itself. It has been the topic of intense scientific and clinical research to develop effective treatments. But the search was in vain.
Will recent drugs show you how to?
Like older drugs, newer drugs are best used as a part of a comprehensive weight reduction program that features close supervision by an experienced physician. Approved medications are often prescribed for individuals with a BMI over 30, especially in the event that they produce other conditions comparable to type 2 diabetes, hypertension, joint problems, or sleep apnea, which regularly Can be reduced by shedding weight.
Not everyone responds the identical to any given medication. Some people can lose numerous weight with a specific drug, while others lose little or nothing. “Currently we have no way of predicting this response,” says Dr. Kaplan. “However, fortunately, if you don't respond to one drug, you may do well with another.” It is commonly vital to try several medications to seek out the correct one for every individual.
Weight loss pills won't melt off the kilos overnight. When they're successful, they lead to a median weight reduction of 5% over a period of six to 12 months. However, even modest weight reduction can improve your health and reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Are weight reduction pills secure?
You may remember some disturbing reports about weight reduction drugs previously. Dexfenfluramine and fenfluramine were withdrawn from the market after being linked to heart valve damage. Sibutramine (Meridia) was removed when it was related to heart attacks and strokes in people at highest risk for them.
The options available in the market today include their very own caveats. The ingredient phentermine — a component of Adipex-P, Ionamin, and Qsymia — isn't generally beneficial for individuals with hypertension or other heart conditions. Topiramate, one other ingredient in Qsymia, has been linked to an increased risk of birth defects, so women who use it should take special care to not turn into pregnant.
If a drug helps you lose 5% of your weight inside a couple of months without unwanted side effects, you'll probably wish to keep taking it. But medications usually are not an alternative to lifestyle changes. They work best when used as a part of a comprehensive medical weight reduction program. They needs to be just a part of a lifelong plan that features a healthy eating regimen, regular exercise, adequate sleep and stress reduction.
Which drug to decide on?Some weight reduction medications contain drugs which are used to treat other conditions. You will want to consider a “dual-purpose” drug if you will have:
|