Here's What You Should Know About the Top 5 Weight Loss Medications
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Understanding Weight Loss Medications
The demand for drugs like Ozempic has surged globally, largely fueled by extensive advertising on social media over the past year. This rising interest has led to a shortage of these medications, creating a frenzy among those seeking them. In this article, we will explore five of the most recognized FDA-approved weight loss medications.
Powerful weight loss drugs could soon come as pills, but are they safe? This video discusses the potential transition of weight loss medications into pill form and examines their safety.
The Popular Weight Loss Medications
Contrave
Contrave is a combination of two active components: Bupropion, an antidepressant that may reduce appetite, and Naltrexone, which can help diminish food cravings. Naltrexone is also utilized to counteract the effects of addictive substances.
- Active Ingredients: Naltrexone/Bupropion
- Medication Class: Anorexiant (appetite suppressants)
- Mechanism of Action: Suppresses hunger signals and cravings
- Uses: Depression, substance abuse, weight loss
- Dosage: Two tablets daily
- Contraindications: High blood pressure, seizures, eating disorders, opioid addiction
Qsymia
Qsymia is an extended-release capsule combining Phentermine, an appetite suppressant, and Topiramate, initially prescribed for seizure prevention.
- Active Ingredients: Phentermine/Topiramate
- Medication Class: Phentermine (sympathomimetic amines) and Topiramate (anticonvulsant)
- Mechanism of Action: Reduces appetite and increases energy expenditure
- Uses: Weight loss
- Dosage: One capsule daily
- Contraindications: Pregnancy, glaucoma, overactive thyroid
Ozempic/Wegovy
Both Ozempic and Wegovy share the same active ingredient, Semaglutide. Wegovy is a higher-dose variant approved specifically for weight loss, while Ozempic is primarily prescribed for Type 2 diabetes.
- Active Ingredients: Semaglutide
- Medication Class: GLP-1 agonist (binds to GLP-1 receptors)
- Mechanism of Action: Mimics the body's natural GLP-1 hormone, lowering blood sugar and suppressing appetite
- Uses: Diabetes, weight loss
- Dosage: One injection weekly
- Contraindications: Personal or family history of thyroid cancer
Orlistat
Orlistat aids in weight loss by preventing the absorption of some dietary fats into the bloodstream.
- Active Ingredients: Lipase Inhibitors
- Medication Class: Lipase Inhibitors
- Mechanism of Action: Blocks fat absorption
- Uses: Weight loss
- Dosage: One capsule three times daily with meals
- Contraindications: Pregnancy, digestive disorders
Mounjaro/Zepbound
Mounjaro is approved for Type 2 Diabetes, while Zepbound is designated for weight loss, both containing the same active ingredient.
- Active Ingredients: Tirzepatide
- Medication Class: GLP-1 Agonist & GIP receptor agonist
- Mechanism of Action: Signals fullness to the brain and slows digestion, impacting insulin levels and hunger hormones
- Uses: Diabetes, weight loss
- Dosage: One injection weekly
- Contraindications: Personal or family history of thyroid cancer
These medications can result in an average weight reduction of 5-10% of your body weight. While their long-term effectiveness is still under review, it is clear that these drugs should not replace healthy lifestyle changes.
This article is intended for educational purposes only. Please consult your healthcare provider to determine the best approach for you.
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