Drug Treatment for Obesity

Obesity is a condition that affects millions of people in the United States. It is often difficult for obese people to have the self-esteem or motivation to exercise or diet to lose weight. There is a psychological component to obesity, and treatment can be difficult and expensive for many sufferers. Therapy is limited by most insurance companies and may not be an option. The embarrassment associated with obesity may prevent someone from getting help. Drug treatments are becoming more popular for obese patients and, depending on the severity of obesity, may be the best method.

Are Drugs Necessary

• Only you and your physician can determine whether medication is a necessary component of your weight loss regimen. If you exercise regularly and keep a proper diet, medication may not be needed.

Fat Blocker

• Medicinenet.com states that one of the safest medications taken for obesity and weight loss is orlistat, once known as the prescription drug Xenical. Orlistat works by blocking the fat you eat from being ingested and is the only Food and Drug Administration-approved over-the-counter medication for weight loss, now called Alli.

Psychotropic

• Biopsychiatry reports that psychotropic drugs such as antidepressants and sibutramine (Meridia), a reuptake inhibitor of serotonin and norepinephrine, are effective weight loss agents that do not bear the abuse potential of stimulants.

Stimulants

• Some of the most popular drugs taken for obesity are stimulants. Stimulants, according to Drugs.com, are effective but can put stress on the cardiac system and cause dependence.

Tips

• If you or someone you know is obese, the importance of diet and exercise cannot be overstated. Seeking professional counseling and educating yourself on different treatments is the best path to successful weight loss.