Weight loss drugs and medications can be an effective tool for individuals struggling with weight management, especially when lifestyle changes like diet and exercise alone are not enough.
Types of Weight Loss Drugs and Medications
( Appetite Suppressants ): > Medications like phentermine or liraglutide help control hunger, making it easier to reduce calorie intake. These drugs work by affecting brain chemicals that regulate appetite.< ( Fat Absorption Inhibitors ): >Orlistat (brand names: Xenical, Alli) works by blocking the absorption of some of the fat from the food you eat, reducing overall calorie intake.< ( Metabolism Boosters ): >Bupropion-naltrexone (Contrave) can increase energy expenditure and reduce appetite, helping people burn more calories throughout the day.< ( GLP-1 Agonists ): >Medications like semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) mimic the action of natural hormones that regulate blood sugar and appetite, leading to reduced hunger and food intake.< ( Surgery-Related Medications ): >For people who have undergone bariatric surgery, medications like liraglutide may help sustain weight loss by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing appetite.
How Do Weight Loss Medications Work?
Reducing Appetite: Some weight loss medications work by altering signals in the brain that control hunger, helping you feel fuller with less food.Blocking Fat Absorption: Certain medications prevent your body from absorbing all the fat you consume, reducing the overall calorie intake from fatty foods.Increasing Metabolism: Some drugs help increase the rate at which your body burns calories, either by boosting fat-burning mechanisms or increasing energy expenditure.