Who Must Use Weight Loss Medicines?|Precaution & Alternatives|
The desire for Weight loss is present among many, but is it right to consume weight loss medicines just like that? The journey to weight loss is quite challenging for many individuals. It must only be approached with the supervision of a medical practitioner. Weight loss medicines are often considered the only potential solution, but there are other effective alternatives too. Understanding who can benefit from them is crucial, as the precautions one should take, popular medicines available, and natural options are essential. So let’s delve into the topic without any delay.
Who is Weight Loss Medicine For?
As discussed above, just because you desire to undergo weight loss is not enough of a reason to consume weight loss medicines. Let’s understand why. These medicines are generally prescribed to individuals with a BMI (Body Mass Index) value of 30 or higher and those with a BMI of 27 or higher. It is also effective for those suffering from health issues related to obesity for instance high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes. It is compulsory to consult a healthcare professional before starting any weight loss medication to ensure it’s the right choice for your situation and to deal with any side effects correctly.
Some Popular Weight Loss Medications
Orlistat
Orlistat, also known as (Alli, Xenical) is a lipase inhibitor. It primarily works by blocking the absorption of fat in the intestines. This medication is available over-the-counter (Alli) and by prescription (Xenical).
Phentermine-topiramate
They are also known as Qsymia. This combination of drugs suppresses your appetite and enhances feelings of fullness. This medication is only available by prescription.
Will Xanax Make You Gain Weight?
Lorcaserin
Lorcaserin, also known as Belviq, works by activating serotonin receptors in the brain. Serotonin, also known as the feel-good hormone, helps control appetite. However, it was withdrawn in 2020 due to potential cancer risks.
Precautions
There are a few precautions that you must abide by when you plan to consume weight loss medications. Those are:
- Always consult a doctor or medical practitioner before starting any weight loss medication to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your needs.
- Some medications might cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Be mindful of these and report at the earliest regarding any adverse effects to your healthcare provider.
- Weight loss medicines are always a challenging fix. Patient and following your doctor’s instructions is necessary to see visible results. They work best with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and a serious commitment to lifestyle changes.
Natural Medicines Known To Aid Weight Loss
As stated earlier, people who want to lose weight cannot rely on medication alone. A healthy lifestyle incorporating proper exercise and a balanced diet is also essential. We have listed here a few natural remedies you can consume if you plan to reduce weight. Still, again, more research is needed to conclude about its efficacy. It is never an alternative for people with severe medical conditions due to being overweight.
- Green tea entails a range of catechins and caffeine that boosts metabolism and burn fat. Again more research is needed.
- Garcinia Cambogia is derived from the fruit’s rind; this natural supplement blocks fat production and suppresses appetite. The evidence of its effectiveness is limited, and long-term safety remains uncertain.
- Glucomannan is extracted from the konjac root; this dietary fibre supplement promotes a feeling of fullness, reducing calorie intake. Advice would be that it must be taken with plenty of water to prevent choking.
In a nutshell, Weight loss medicines can benefit individuals struggling with obesity and related health issues. However, taking the necessary precautions while considering popular medication is crucial. It is essential to consult a health practitioner before consuming any weight loss medicine to keep yourself safe from any side effects. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with proper food, sleep, and exercise is crucial as this would certainly ease your weight loss journey.
