Obesity is becoming the United States' number one cause of preventable death and can be linked to numerous health risks. Nutritional supplements promise to shed fat and unwanted pounds, but are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This can be a sign that supplements can be ineffective or lack the clinical evidence proving claims. The FDA has approved some medications to combat obesity. Be aware that these medication do come with side effects, but the side effects can be minor in light of the overall health benefits of losing weight.
Meridia
Meridia (sibutramine) is a selective noradrenaline and serotonin reuptake inhibitor, which is FDA approved to reduce weight. A study by the German Diabetes Research Institute was conducted using 389 obese patients throughout a 54-week trial, using 15mg of Meridia or a placebo. This trial was double-blind---patients did not know if they were taking the Meridia or placebo. It was confirmed that subjects on Meridia lost more than 5 to 10 percent of the initial weight than the placebo group. The Meridia group also improved its lipid profile with an increase in HDL cholesterol. A 15mg daily dose of sibutramine was considered safe and effective for additional weight loss during a weight reduction program.
Orlistat
Alli (non-prescription) and Xenical (prescription) should be used with a low-calorie, low-fat diet, in conjunction with exercise, to aid in the loss of excess weight. Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor. This is a class of drug that works in the intestine to block the absorption of fat into the system. The prescription orlistat is commonly given to individuals with diabetes, heart disease or high blood pressure. However, the fat that is blocked is excreted in the stools. Common side-effects include gastrointestinal discomfort, bloating and oily stools a a result of the discharged fat.
Obesity in Children
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the prevalence of childhood obesity is on the increase. Obese and overweight children from 2 to 5 years of age increased 7.4 percent, children 6 to 11 years of age increased 10.5 percent and children aged 12 to 19 years of age increased 12.6 percent. The CDC reports that 80 percent of children overweight at ages 10 to 15 will become obese by age 25. However, there is a lack of safety data supporting the combination of children and weight loss supplements. Children should see a nutritionist to provide the proper foundation of a healthy lifestyle: nutrition and exercise. Children must learn to eat to live and the risks of bad food choices.
Speculation and Side Effects
Weight loss can be increased by prescribed medications in most clinical trials. Patients can expect a 8 to 10 percent weight loss from initial baseline weight---provided they combine nutrition, a weight-loss program and the prescribed medication. Medications have side effects, which should be considered before taking them. Sibutramine can induce increases in blood pressure and heart rate in a small percentage of patients. You may have to stop taking the medication if this is the case. Orlistat's side effects include gastrointestinal discomfort and increased bowel activity.
Warning
Seek the advice of your health care provider before using any medications. Never use medications without a prescription. Consider risks and benefits before using. Be aware, in most cases, weight can be managed with a balanced nutrition and exercise program.
