What are the Most Used types of Weight Loss Drugs?

What are the Most Common types of Natural Weight Loss Pills?

Many weight loss products market themselves as being “natural,” so this is a general term used to apply to a number of treatments. The safety and efficacy of these various products can vary, as over-the-counter (OTC) are not regulated or monitored by the FDA. New supplements are introduced to the market at a rapid pace, and funding for scientific research into their effectiveness is not ample enough to keep up.

Some examples and classifications of natural weight loss products include:

Fat Burners

These supplements claim to offer any number of weight loss benefits including:

• Significantly increase metabolism 
• Increase the oxidation of fat during exercise 
• Reduce fat absorption 
• Promote long-term body changes that improve metabolism of fat

Typically, fat burners are a blend of ingredients, each of which is promoted as having a specific function. Advertisements also frequently claim that the specific combination of ingredients in the product enhances the effects (versus those achieved by supplementing them individually). Examples of common ingredients found in fat burner supplements includes:

• Carnitine
• Green Tea
• Kelp
• Fucoxanthin
• Conjugated linoleic acid
• Forskolin
• Caffeine
• Chromium

Studies show that green tea and caffeine produce the best fat-metabolizing results of those on this list. While there have been some positive results with some of these other ingredients, there is insufficient evidence to show that they are an effective weight loss aid. 

Stimulant-Free and Night-Time Fat Burners

There are a variety of weight loss aids advertising themselves as stimulant-free or night-time friendly. They typically claim to produce the same effects as fat-burners, but without the risks of stimulants that can cause insomnia, high blood pressure, heart attack, and other cardiovascular issues. These options usually advertise effects that boost metabolism while you are sleeping. 

However, night-time and stimulant-free supplements are no more regulated than regular fat burners, so there is no guarantee of the safety or efficacy of any ingredients included. Like with regular fat burners, there is still a risk of negative interactions with other medications or supplements you are taking.

Fat Blockers and Carb Blockers

Fat blockers and carb blockers both work by decreasing the absorption of fat and carbs.

Fat blockers inhibit intestinal enzymes responsible for breaking down fat cells. They are taken with a meal and can prevent as much as 25% of the fat consumed from being absorbed. The fat instead passes in bowel movements. Despite this reduced fat absorption, studies indicate OTC fat blockers result in only mild weight loss. 

OTC fat blocking drugs have also been linked to a number of side effects, such as:

• Loose, oily stool
• Difficulty controlling bowel movements
• Rectal discomfort
• Anxiety
• Irregular menstrual periods
• Headaches
• Stomach pain

OTC or natural carb blockers are typically made from bean extract. They work by inhibiting enzymes in the intestine in charge of breaking down complex carbohydrates found in foods like bread, rice, potatoes, and pasta. 

While these drugs can inhibit these enzymes, that doesn’t guarantee carbs will not be absorbed. One study involving a particularly strong carb blocker revealed that only 7% of the carbs consumed were prevented from being absorbed, despite 97% of enzymes being inhibited. (Normal strength carb blockers typically block 50-65% of carb-digesting enzymes.) 

Carb blockers do not prevent carbs from being absorbed; rather they simply increase how long it takes for your body to digest carbs. Also, many people struggle more due to simple carbs from added sugars such as glucose, fructose, or sucrose, which are unaffected by these supplements.

Studies have shown inconsistent weight loss benefits with carb blockers. Some studies have shown that taking carb blockers resulted in more weight loss, particularly in those individuals who ate the most carbs. Other studies have shown no substantial difference in weight loss between those taking carb blockers and those who did not. Overall, the weight loss effects achieved with carb blockers appear to be mild.

Carb blockers are considered a very safe treatment, though they can result in several uncomfortable side effects, including:

• Bloating
• Abdominal cramping
• Flatulence
• Diarrhea

People with diabetes should consult a doctor before taking carb blockers, as they can cause low blood sugar.

A serious concern regarding both fat blockers and carb blockers is the lack of regulation in the supplement industry. While OTC medications are regulated by the FDA, supplements are not. The supplement industry is rife with fraud, with one FDA investigation finding that only 17% of several herbal supplements contained the main ingredient advertised on the label. Other instances have involved ingredients previously removed from the prescription market after dangerous side effects had been discovered.

Diuretics

Diuretics are also sometimes called water pills. These medications are formulated to increase the amount of water and salt shed from the body as urine. Typically, these drugs are prescribed to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, tissue swelling, liver failure, and certain kidney disorders like kidney stones. Certain diuretics, known as potassium-sparing diuretics, are prescribed along with other medications that lower blood pressure to help the body shed water without losing too much potassium.

Some questionable sources claim diuretics are a suitable tool for weight loss. However, the reality is that diuretics only cause you to lose water weight, meaning they do not help you burn fat. You may see a temporary drop on the scale, but it will not affect your weight long-term. Athletes are known to abuse diuretics to achieve rapid weight loss and to hide use of banned substances.

Diuretics also cause a number of side effects, such as:

• Increased urination
• Sodium deficiency
• Allergic reaction
• Dehydration
• Impotence
• Potassium deficiency
• Potassium overload (potassium-sparing diuretics)
• Higher blood sugar
• Dizziness
• Muscle cramps
• Gout

Staying hydrated is essential to the optimal function of the body, meaning that dehydration can interfere with efforts to lose weight. Diuretics can also have negative effects for a number of health conditions, as well as negative interactions with other medications. Diuretics should only be taken under the guidance of a medical professional, even if they do not require a prescription. A doctor can guide you towards healthier and more effective weight loss aids.

Hoodia

Hoodia is a weight loss supplement derived from a cactus plant that grows in the Kalahari Desert in Africa. It is taken as an appetite suppressant, with some claims indicating San bushmen use it to stave off hunger on long hunts. It is unclear exactly how hoodia works, but two chemicals in this supplement appear to be responsible for curbing appetite, including P57 and gordonoside F. Researchers have not yet identified how P57 works. Gordonoside F is believed to decrease hunger by stimulating insulin production.

There is currently insufficient evidence indicating that hoodia is an effective weight loss aid. Additionally, false advertising and scams are rampant around hoodia products. News reports have indicated that several samples of hoodia products turned out to not contain any hoodia at all. Another hoodia product was found to contain sibutramine, a substance that was removed in 2010 from the U.S. market because of side effects causing high blood pressure and increased heart rate. 

The reported minor side effects of hoodia include:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Giddiness
• Dizziness
• Strange sensations on the skin

People who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using hoodia, as its affects are unknown. People with diabetes should avoid hoodia as it can cause low blood sugar and interfere with medications used to treat the condition.

People with high blood pressure should also avoid hoodia, as it not only increases blood pressure, but also negatively interacts with blood pressure medications. Hoodia can impair the effects of both antihypertensive drugs and beta-blockers, which can result in more serious health complications.

Ephedra (aka Ma Huang)

Ephedra is derived from the stems and branches of a Chinese evergreen shrub that has been used medicinally for thousands of years to treat various ailments. This botanical is a natural source of the alkaloids ephedrine and pseudophedrine. Synthetic forms are usually found in OTC decongestants and cold medicines and are also used to help treat asthma. While ephedrine is FDA-approved for these purposes, it is not FDA-approved as a weight loss aid or for athletic enhancement.

Ephedra is a stimulant, increasing production of norepinephrine (also known as noradrenaline), a neurotransmitter and hormone with a number of functions, including:

• Causes blood vessels to constrict
• Helps regulate mood, memory, and sleep-wake cycle
• Increasing attention, arousal, and alertness
• Norepinephrine also helps trigger the body’s fight or flight response

In 2004, the FDA banned the sale of dietary supplements containing ephedra due to high risk of severe side effects. A number of studies revealed that combining synthetic ephedrine with caffeine caused a significant increase in side effects such as nausea, vomiting, anxiety, mood swings, and heart palpitations. Other severe side effects include:

• Heart attack
• High blood pressure
• Irregular heartbeat
• Stroke
• Death

The risk of these severe side effects is also increased when combining ephedra with caffeine, which is not uncommon in dietary supplement blends.

Are Prescription or Natural Weight Loss Pills better?

While certain types of natural weight loss aids may indicate some promising results, current research does not appear to support claims of drastic results when compared to those who solely concentrated on maintaining a healthy diet and exercise. Additionally, the lack of regulation of supplements can be difficult to navigate, as various products may not actually contain the ingredients listed, have different ratios of ingredients than indicated on the label, or may contain ingredients not listed on the label. These discrepancies may result in little to no additional weight loss. In worst case scenarios, they could result in severe side effects that could permanently damage your health.

Many people may find the research necessary to find a reliable natural weight loss treatment overwhelming.

Doing the proper research into the best supplement is additionally complicated by any health risks or conditions you may have, as well as being sure to avoid negative interactions with any medications you may be taking. 

The best way to ensure weight loss treatments are safe is to seek guidance from a medical professional who can evaluate your overall health and recommend realistic weight loss goals. Prescription weight loss medications have been thoroughly vetted to ensure their safety, which means you can take them with peace of mind.

What are the Most Common Prescription Weight Loss Pills?

Prescription weight loss treatments can be particularly helpful for those with serious health risks who have been unable to control weight solely with diet and exercise, like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure. Whatever option you choose, it is important to note that these options are not designed to replace a healthy diet and exercise. These options are intended to enhance the weight loss effects of cutting and burning calories. Failure to pair treatments with a diet and exercise plan is unlikely to get you the results you wish to achieve.

Prescription weight loss treatments can only be obtained through a licensed healthcare provider. These drugs are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are thoroughly vetted and regulated. Certain drugs may be FDA approved for a different purpose, such as diabetes treatment, but may be prescribed by your physician under an “off-label” use as part of a weight loss program.

A weight loss treatment may be formulated to have more than one of the effects listed above. Prescription weight loss aids containing stimulants are classified as controlled substances by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).

Some of the ways prescription weight loss aids can be classified include:

• Anorexiants – These drugs are designed to suppress appetite, helping you reduce calorie consumption.
• Inhibitors – These drugs are formulated to prevent intestine from absorbing fat. They generally work by blocking enzymes responsible for breaking down fat or carbs, preventing them from being absorbed by the body and thus cutting caloric intake.
• Receptor agonists – These drugs help enhance weight loss in two ways – One, prompting the stomach to empty more slowly, helping you eat less; and Two, increasing signaling to the brain that you are full, helping to decrease appetite and food cravings. They typically do this by stimulating the production of insulin. Types of receptor agonists that aid weight loss include incretin mimetics and melanocortin receptor agonists.
• Stimulants – Help boost the body’s natural ability to burn fat.

Prescription weight loss treatments are typically available in two forms: pills or injections.

While these drugs may have side effects, your doctor can advise you on strategies to lessen the likelihood of developing side effects and reduce their severity.

This advice may include tips such as:

• Maintaining a specific diet
• Taking your prescription weight loss pill at certain times each day
• Taking other necessary medications or supplements at certain times each day to mitigate your symptoms

The advice you are given to follow differs from prescription to prescription. It may also differ on a case-by-case basis depending on your specific health circumstances. 

Below, we’ve compiled a list of the most popular prescription weight loss aids along with the general advice on how it should be taken. If your doctor advises you to take these prescriptions differently, you should follow your doctor’s advice and follow up with them if you have questions.

Xenical

Generic name: Orlistat

Prescription brand name: Xenical

OTC brand name: alli

How does Xenical work?

Xenical is a fat blocker, that works by temporarily inhibiting the enzymes that digest fat, known as lipases. It does this by bonding with lipases, preventing the breakdown of fats into a form that the body can absorb. The fats instead pass through the intestine via bowel movements.

How should you take Xenical?

Xenical and alli are capsules taken orally. The primary difference between Xenical and alli is that Xenical is a prescription-only form of orlistat typically dosed at 120mg, while alli, the OTC form of orlistat, is 60mg per dose. 

While it may be tempting to take more alli instead of seeking a prescription, it’s important to note that orlistat can interfere with several health conditions and medications, so taking larger doses may not be safe for you. You should only take alli as directed, and you should seek the guidance of a licensed and trained healthcare provider before taking either medication.

Xenical is typically taken 3 times a day with each main meal containing some fat. You should avoid eating meals in which more than 30% of total calories are fat. If you are having a meal that does not contain any fat, you should skip the dose for that meal. It should be noted that Xenical can interfere with your body’s ability to absorb vitamins. You may need to adjust the time you typically take your supplements once starting orlistat. You should discuss all medications and supplements with your doctor before taking Xenical and follow their dosing instructions. 

Qsymia

Generic name: phentermine and topiramate

Brand name: Qsymia

How does Qsymia work?

Qsymia is a combination of two different drugs: phentermine and topiramate. Phentermine is similar to an amphetamine, and functions as an appetite suppressant. Topiramate is a seizure, or anticonvulsant, medication. Together, these drugs work as an anorexiant, helping to suppress appetite. Qsymia can be prescribed to pediatric patients 12 or older or adults.

How should you take Qsymia?

Qsymia is a capsule taken orally. How you should take Qsymia can vary based on your age, your current BMI, and several other factors. Your prescription may increase as treatment progresses, which can alter how you take Qsymia. A typical treatment schedule for adults looks like the following:

• Starting treatment: One Qsymia (3.75/23 mg) capsule each morning for 14 days Increase dosage to one Qsymia (7.5/46 mg) capsule each morning for 10 weeks

After 12 weeks, if you have not hit weight loss or BMI decrease targets set by your healthcare provider, they may prescribe a dosage increase. The dosage increase generally involves:

• Increased dosage after 12 weeks: One Qsymia (11.25/69 mg) each morning for 14 days Increase dosage to one Qsymia (15/92 mg) each morning for the duration of treatment (generally 10 weeks).

Stopping Qsymia should not be done without the guidance of your healthcare provider. Quitting Qsymia “cold turkey” can cause severe health issues, including seizures. Your doctor can create a tapering schedule for you to gradually stop using Qsymia.

Contrave

Generic name: bupropion and naltrexone

Prescription brand name: Contrave

 How does Contrave work?

Contrave is a combination of two drugs, bupropion and naltrexone. Naltrexone is usually used to help people overcome addiction problems by blocking the effects of opioids or alcohol. It is believed to also help curb hunger and food cravings. Bupropion is an antidepressant that also works to decrease appetite. Together, these drugs work together as an anorexiant to help curb food cravings and suppress appetite in adults.

How should you take Contrave?

Contrave is a tablet taken orally. Dosage schedule can vary on a case-by-case basis, so you should take Contrave as directed by your healthcare provider. You should never crush, chew, or break the tablet. You should also avoid taking more than two tablets at once. Eating a high fat meal while taking Contrave increases the risk of seizure. Contrave can interfere with various medications, treatments, or testing, so you may need to adjust how you take this drug.

If, after a 12 week treatment program of Contrave, you have not lost 5% of your starting body weight, Contrave may not be the right prescription weight loss aid for you.

Saxenda

Generic name: Liraglutide

Brand name: Saxenda

How does Saxenda work?

Saxenda is a receptor agonist (incretin mimetic), functioning like natural hormones that promote insulin secretion to regulate digestion and blood sugar. Managing insulin levels with Saxenda can help adults and pediatric patients 12 or older lose weight and keep it off. The active ingredient in Saxenda, liraglutide, is also used to treat diabetes under the brand name Victoza. It should be noted that Saxenda and Victoza should not be taken together.

How should you take Saxenda?

Saxenda is an injectable medication that comes in a prefilled injection pen. Your pharmacist can advise you regarding which types of needles should be used with the pen. Your healthcare provider can teach you the best places on the body to inject Saxenda, and how to properly inject the medication under the skin. 

You should not inject Saxenda into the same location two times in a row, and you should never use a needle more than once. You will need a puncture-proof disposal container (aka a “sharps container”) to safely throw away used needles. Injection pens that are “in-use” should be refrigerated. They will stay safe to use for up to 30 days. Needles should always be removed before storing, and the injection pen must be capped while not in use.

A typical dosage schedule for adults generally looks like the following:

• Week 1: Inject 0.6 mg once per day
• Week 2: Inject 1.2 mg once per day
• Week 3: Inject 1.8 mg once per day
• Week 4: Inject 2.4 mg once per day
• Week 5: Inject 3 mg once per day

The prescription gradually increases to help reduce the likelihood and severity of gastrointestinal side effects. Subsequent maintenance doses may be administered at 3 mg per day. However, if you experience significant side effects or treatment is ineffective, your doctor will advise you on how to discontinue treatment.

Wegovy

Generic name: semaglutide

Prescription brand name: Wegovy

How does Wegovy work?

Wegovy is a receptor agonist (incretin mimetic), stimulating the production of insulin to help control blood sugars, reduce appetite, and delay the emptying of the stomach. Wegovy can be prescribed to adults to help them lose weight and keep it off. One study demonstrated that participants who took Wegovy lost 12.4% of their initial body weight compared to those who received the placebo. 

The active ingredient in Wegovy, semaglutide, is also found in many diabetes medications. Wegovy should not be used with other diabetes medications nor with other incretin mimetics.

How should you take Wegovy?

Wegovy is an injectable medication that comes in a single-use, prefilled injection pen. Pens are color-coded to indicate different dosages. Wegovy is injected under the skin but should not be injected into muscle or directly into a vein. Injections can be administered to the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. It is important not to inject Wegovy in the same area twice in a row. Wegovy pens are intended for one use only and should be thrown away safely after being used. As with Saxenda, you will need a puncture-proof disposal container to safely throw away used needles. 

Wegovy is self-administered 1 time per week, on the same day each week, at any time of day. A Wegovy dosage schedule for an adult generally involves:

• Month 1: Inject 0.25 mg once per week
• Month 2: Inject 0.5 mg once per week
• Month 3: Inject 1 mg once per week
• Month 4: Inject 1.7 mg once per week
• Month 5 and subsequent maintenance months: Inject 2.4 mg once per week

You can adjust the day of the week you take Wegovy, as long as your last dose was administered 2 or more days before. If you miss a dose and your next scheduled dose is more than 48 hours away, take the missed dose right away. If your next scheduled dose is less than 48 hours away, take the dose as scheduled, and do not make up the missed dose. If you miss doses for more than two weeks, you should contact your healthcare provider for advice on how to proceed with treatment. 

Imcivree

Generic name: setmelanotide

Prescription brand name: Imcivree

How does Imcivree work?

Imcivree is a melanocortin receptor agonist, which mimics the effects of peptide hormones responsible for regulating appetite. It can be prescribed to adults or children 6 or older to help address obesity resulting from

• Genetic conditions 
  • Poopiomelanocortin (POMC) 
  • Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 1 (PCSK1) 
  • Leptin receptor deficiency (LEPR)
• Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS)

Your healthcare provider should confirm you have one of these conditions with genetic testing before prescribing Imcivree.

How should you take Imcivree?

Imcivree is an injectable medication packaged in a vial containing multiple doses. Imcivree requires refrigeration, so be sure to follow the refrigeration instructions to ensure the integrity of the medication. Imcivree is injected under the skin using a disposable syringe that should be thrown out in a puncture-proof disposal container.

A typical dosage schedule for adults includes:

• First two weeks: Inject 2 mg per day when you first wake up
• Subsequent dosing: If there are no serious adverse reactions, increase to 3 mg per day. If adverse reactions occur, decrease dosage to 1 mg for two more weeks, and monitor side effects and progress. 

If you miss a dose, do not make it up; instead, take your next dose at the regularly scheduled time. If you have not reached weight loss goals within 12-16 weeks of treatment, your doctor may give you advice on how to discontinue Imcivree, as it may not be the right treatment for you.

Adipex-P/Lomaira

Generic name: phentermine

Prescription brand names: Adipex-P, Lomaira

How does Adipex-P/Lomaira work?

Adipex-P and Lomaira are anorexiants that stimulate the central nervous system to increase heart rate and blood pressure, helping to decrease appetite. Adults and adolescents age 17 or older can take Adipex-P or Lomaira to reduce weight and help keep it off.

How should you take Adipex-P/Lomaira?

Adipex-P and Lomaira are taken orally. A typical dosage schedule for Adipex-P involves taking 15-37.5 mg orally once per day. Adipex-P should be taken before breakfast, or 1-2 hours after breakfast. In the event that you miss a dose, you should take it as soon as you can unless it is late in the day. If it’s late in the day, skip the missed dose and resume your usual schedule. You should not take two doses of Adipex-P at one time.

Bontril PDM

Generic name: Phendimetrazine tablets

Prescription brand name: Bontril PDM

How does Bontril PDM work?

Bontril PDM is an anorexiant, stimulating an increase in blood pressure and heart rate to help decrease appetite. It is prescribed to adolescents 17 and older and adults to help reduce weight and keep it off.

How should you take Bontril PDM?

Bontril PDM is available in both immediate-release and extended-release tablets. A typical dosage schedule for adults can vary depending on the form prescribed.

• Immediate-release tablets: Take 35 mg orally one hour before meals (2-3 times per day)
• Extended-release tablets: Take 105 mg orally 30-60 minutes before your morning meal (once per day)

If you miss a dose, you should skip it and resume your doses as scheduled. You should not take 2 doses at the same time.

Desoxyn

Generic name: methamphetamine

Prescription brand name: Desoxyn

How does Desoxyn work?

Desoxyn is a stimulant of the central nervous system, affecting brain chemicals that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control. In addition to treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), it also is an anorexiant prescribed to treat obesity in adults and children 12 years of age or older by helping to manage food cravings and appetite.

How should you take Desoxyn?

Desoxyn is an oral medication. A typical dosage to treat obesity in adults generally looks like:

• Take 5 mg orally 30 minutes before each meal

Desoxyn for obesity is a short-term treatment that is usually only a few weeks in duration. This drug is a schedule II controlled substance and has a strong addictive potential, so it is essential to take this drug only as prescribed by your doctor.

Which Weight Loss Medication might Work for Me?

A health care professional can evaluate your health, current medications you are taking, and weight loss goals to help determine the best course of treatment. As stated earlier, no prescription weight loss aid will be effective in and of itself to produce results. 

A doctor can guide you regarding the best diet and exercise regimen to follow to achieve your health goals.

They can also offer easy-to-follow tips, such as the best times of day to take your medication, to support your efforts and get the most out of whichever treatment you choose.

A health care professional can also help you avoid harmful and dangerous side effects of unreliable and unregulated weight loss supplements.

What are the most common Side Effects and Health Risks of Prescription Weight Loss Treatments?

The side effects and health risks of weight loss treatments can vary depending on the type of weight loss aid you are prescribed. Generally, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using prescription weight loss aids. You should also make sure to tell your doctor about all allergies, medications, and supplements you are taking during your health evaluation to avoid negative drug interactions, which could be dangerous. 

People with diabetes should discuss their condition history and medications with a doctor, as there are various elements to taking a weight loss supplement that can affect your condition and treatment. You should never take any weight loss aid if you are not overweight.

If you have a history of eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia, be sure to mention this to your doctor so that you can get the right guidance in achieving your health goals.

• Fat blockers can be dangerous for those with gallbladder problems, malabsorption syndrome, and those who have had organ transplants and are taking medication to prevent organ rejection. You should also mention any history of liver disease or kidney issues to your doctor before taking a fat blocker. Other medications to be sure to mention include HIV or AIDS medications, blood thinners, vitamins or supplements containing Vitamin E or beta-carotene, and seizure medications. Common side effects of fat blockers include: 
  • Abdominal pain, nausea, and rectal pain 
  • Oily or fatty stools and discharge 
  • Sudden, urgent need to go to the bathroom or inability to control bowel movements

• Anorexiants can be dangerous for people with a history of seizures, heart attack or stroke, liver or kidney disease, and untreated or uncontrolled high blood pressure. These drugs often contain stimulants that may be habit-forming, so if you have a history of addiction, these may not be the right choice for you. These drugs also pose a risk to mental health, especially those with a history of bipolar disorder and depression, so you should be sure to disclose these to your doctor when discussing weight loss aid options. Medications that may interact negatively include opioids, MAO inhibitors, seizure medications, birth control, and drugs that cause drowsiness. Common side effects of anorexiants may include: 
  • Swelling and pain in ankles or feet 
  • Headache and dizziness 
  • Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation 
  • Insomnia 

• Receptor agonists can be dangerous for people who have a history of kidney or pancreas problems, mental health conditions like depression or thoughts of self-harm, or diabetes. They may also increase risk for developing tumors or cancer in those with a history of thyroid cancer, especially medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). People with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2) should also avoid these drugs. These drugs generally pose a lower risk of negative interactions with other medications but can change how your body absorbs medications and supplements, so be sure to discuss this with your healthcare provider. Most common side effects of receptor agonists include: 
  • Abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, gas/bloating, vomiting, and constipation 
  • Headache, dizziness, and fatigue

Seek Medical Professionals

Working with a healthcare professional to develop a plan to lose weight is the safest and most effective way to achieve your goals. They are experts who can help you develop a nutritional plan and exercise routine that can fit your lifestyle and budget.

This foundation of healthier habits will help you develop a lifestyle that not only helps you lose weight but keep it off. Weight loss aids are designed to enhance the positive effects of a healthier lifestyle so that you can achieve your goals more quickly, and in many cases, help relieve the strain on your body that is putting your health at risk.