Best Prescription Weight Loss Pills 2022: A Comprehensive Review

Weight loss has become a major concern for many people worldwide. People are looking for ways to lose weight because it not only makes them look good but also reduces the risk of various health conditions. Among the many ways of losing weight, using prescription weight loss pills has gained popularity in recent years. In this article, we will review some of the best prescription weight loss pills in 2022.

1. Orlistat (Xenical)

Source: tse1.mm.bing.net

Orlistat, marketed under the brand name Xenical, is a prescription weight loss pill that works by blocking the enzyme that breaks down fats in the gut. As a result, the body absorbs fewer calories from fat, which leads to weight loss. Orlistat is approved for use in adults and children over 12 years old. It is usually taken three times a day with meals that contain fat.

Studies have shown that Orlistat can help people lose about 3-4 kg more than those who don't take the pill. However, it has some side effects, including oily stools, flatulence, and diarrhea. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own after a few days of use.

2. Phentermine (Adipex-P)

Source: tse1.mm.bing.net

Phentermine, marketed under the brand name Adipex-P, is a prescription weight loss pill that works as an appetite suppressant. It stimulates the central nervous system, which reduces hunger and increases the feeling of fullness. Phentermine is approved for short-term use in adults and children over 16 years old.

Studies have shown that Phentermine can help people lose up to 5% of their body weight in 12 weeks. However, it has some side effects, including dry mouth, insomnia, and constipation. Phentermine can also be habit-forming, and its long-term use is not recommended.

3. Liraglutide (Saxenda)

Source: tse1.mm.bing.net

Liraglutide, marketed under the brand name Saxenda, is a prescription weight loss pill that works by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which regulates appetite and insulin secretion. It slows down the movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine, which increases the feeling of fullness and reduces hunger. Liraglutide is approved for use in adults only.

Studies have shown that Liraglutide can help people lose up to 8% of their body weight in 56 weeks. However, it has some side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Liraglutide can also increase the risk of thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, and gallbladder disease.

4. Naltrexone-Bupropion (Contrave)

Source: tse1.mm.bing.net

Naltrexone-Bupropion, marketed under the brand name Contrave, is a prescription weight loss pill that works by reducing hunger and cravings. Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of opioids in the brain, while Bupropion is an antidepressant that increases the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, which regulate mood and appetite. Naltrexone-Bupropion is approved for use in adults only.

Studies have shown that Naltrexone-Bupropion can help people lose up to 5% of their body weight in 12 weeks. However, it has some side effects, including nausea, constipation, and headache. Naltrexone-Bupropion can also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior, seizures, and liver damage.

5. Topiramate-Phentermine (Qsymia)

Source: tse1.mm.bing.net

Topiramate-Phentermine, marketed under the brand name Qsymia, is a prescription weight loss pill that works by reducing hunger and increasing the feeling of fullness. Topiramate is an anticonvulsant that reduces the activity of neurons in the brain, while Phentermine is an appetite suppressant that stimulates the central nervous system. Topiramate-Phentermine is approved for use in adults only.

Studies have shown that Topiramate-Phentermine can help people lose up to 10% of their body weight in 12 weeks. However, it has some side effects, including dry mouth, constipation, and tingling in the hands and feet. Topiramate-Phentermine can also increase the risk of birth defects, suicidal thoughts and behavior, and glaucoma.

Conclusion

Prescription weight loss pills can be an effective way of losing weight, but they should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider. The best prescription weight loss pill for you depends on your individual needs and medical history. Be sure to discuss the benefits and risks of each option with your healthcare provider before making a decision.