Medication to Speed Up Metabolism

There two ways of using drugs to lose weight: to suppress appetite and to speed up the body's metabolism. In general, the drugs available do both. The drugs in this category are synthetic chemicals that serve basically as stimulants to the body's central nervous system. The basic theory here is that being obese is not necessarily the fault of the patient, but may in fact be based on a slow metabolism that stores many calories as fat.

Types

• The major types of drugs that speed up metabolism are Benzphetamine, Phendimetrazine, Diethylpropion, Phentermine and many others. More common drugs like caffeine and nicotine are also in this category. They all act like stimulants.

Purpose

• The real purpose and function of these drugs are to act on the central nervous system to "speed up" the body's ability to metabolize calories, rather than having them build up in the system as fat. For the most part, these drugs work in the same manner with the same side effects. In general, they are known for increasing energy and excitement levels, and can aid in concentration.

Anorectic Drugs

• Drugs like Benzphetamine and Phendimetrazine are anorectics. They are highly controversial stimulants and appetite suppressants that have been linked to serious heart conditions. They work on the appetite center of the brain. Anorectic drugs serve to speed up the metabolism, but without reliance on amphetamines. This class of drug has greater side effects than the more typical amphetamines.

Main Side Effects

• Nearly all appetite suppressants and stimulants have a similar list of side affects. These, most commonly, include heart problems and high blood pressure. Less commonly they can lead to dizziness, disorientation and even seizures. Anorectics have the additional problems of possibly leading to blurred vision an headaches. Powerful stimulants have been linked to depression, sexual problems and diarrhea.

Warnings

• In general, those who already have a family history of high blood pressure should avoid these medications. Those with anxiety disorders and depression are also likewise warned away from these drugs. These drugs should not be taken by those who are pregnant or who can become pregnant. Furthermore, these drugs are usually prescribed with the understanding that the patient will engage in substantial life changes, such as changes in eating habits, exercise regimens and avoidance of junk foods. These drugs are for short term use only.