For those that have gone the route of adjusting diet and exercise with little to show for it have the option to turn to medication for help. This is especially true for those that are obese. It is possible to control weight through the use of prescription medications. Obesity is considered a chronic disease that requires long-term treatment in order to control and have sustainable weight loss. Many medications are modestly effective, and sometimes lead to a weight loss of anywhere from five to twenty pounds more than with non-drug obesity treatments.
Medication as an option for weight control is seen as justifiable as treatment for other chronic conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Some antidepressants have also been used as appetite suppressant medications. These of course, are seen as secondary, “off-label” uses. Amphetamines are not considered for use in healthy weight control in obese individuals.
While there are effective medications available for successful weight loss, it is important to note that there are side effects that accompany each. In some cases they are minor, while in others they can be dangerous. Some side effects can adversely affect the heart valves and create heart disease. Medications such as fenfluramine (Pondimin) and dexfenfluramine (Redux) have been pulled from the market for causing these kinds of problems.
Many medications available are aimed at suppressing the appetite. These types of medications do so by increasing serotonin or catecholamine, the two brain chemicals that affect mood and appetite. Some medications control weight by preventing fat absorption in the body. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises against the use of certain medications for prolonged periods of time. You must discuss your options as well as the risks involved with your physician. While controlling weight for obese individuals is crucial, their individual health is must also be taken into consideration.
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