Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Make sure you know about each of the medicines you take. This includes why you take it, how to take it, what you can expect while you're taking it, and any warnings about the medicine. The information provided here is general. So be sure to read the information that came with your medicine. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your pharmacist or doctor. Here are some examples of weight-loss medicines. For each item in the list, the generic name is first, followed by any brand names. Doctors prescribe weight loss medicines for people who are obese or overweight and have other health problems, such as high blood pressure or diabetes. These medicines may help some people who haven't been able to lose weight with diet and exercise. Different medicines produce different results in different people. Studies show that when people took:footnote 1 Weight-loss medicines are used along with healthy eating and being more active. Without those lifestyle changes, you will gain the weight back if you stop taking the medicine. Many people regain the weight they lost after they quit taking the medicines. Medicine doesn't work for everyone. If you don't lose weight within 4 weeks after you start the medicine, it probably won't help you. Most weight-loss medicines have side effects like nausea, vomiting, headaches, and constipation. Some medicines are more likely to cause side effects than others. For example, nausea is a common side effect of Contrave and Saxenda. Xenical can cause changes in bowel habits. These changes may include oily or fatty stool and being unable to control bowel movements. Sometimes the side effects are mild and go away over time. Research shows that up to half of people who take weight-loss medicines quit because of side effects.footnote 2 If your doctor prescribes a weight-loss medicine for you, tell them about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements that you take. Your doctor will want to know about any side effects you have. The doctor will watch to see if your weight loss improves your type 2 diabetes, cholesterol, and blood pressure. All medicines can cause side effects. Many people don't have side effects. And minor side effects sometimes go away after a while. But sometimes side effects can be a problem or can be serious. If you're having problems with side effects, talk to your doctor. Your doctor may be able to lower your dose or change to a different medicine. Always be sure you get specific information on the medicine you're taking. For a full list of side effects, check the information that came with the medicine you're using. If you have questions, talk to your pharmacist or doctor. Using weight-loss medicines can put you at risk for increased blood pressure, a faster heart rate, headaches, sleep problems, and unpleasant changes in bowel habits. It is possible to misuse some of these medicines. Weight-loss medicines also can harm unborn babies. Women who are pregnant should not take these medicines. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the medicines you take. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements. That information will help prevent serious problems. Always be sure you get specific information on the medicine you're taking. For a full list of warnings, check the information that came with the medicine you're using. If you have questions, talk to your pharmacist or doctor. Weight-loss medicines can range in cost. But they can be expensive. If you and your doctor have decided that you need a weight-loss medicine, make sure you know how much you will have to pay. Take time to find out about how your insurance covers the cost of these medicines. Your insurance company may not pay for the medicines. Ask the customer service representative these questions: Many insurance companies also list this information on their websites. Current as of: May 14, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Next Section: Previous Section: Current as of: May 14, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2023 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Weight-Loss Medicines
About This Medicine
What are some examples?
Why are prescription weight-loss medicines used?
How well do they work?
What about side effects?
General information about side effects
What are some cautions about prescription weight-loss
medicines?
General cautions for all medicines
What should you know about cost?
Related Information
References
Citations
Credits
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: May 14, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review BoardWeight-Loss Medicines
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.