The issue of weight gain and obesity has become a global epidemic and it’s estimated that 1 in 3 adults are considered to be obese in the United States. Even more concerning is the rising rates of childhood obesity, which has tripled over the past four decades, according to the CDC. While diet and exercise are proven ways to lose weight, many have turned to pharmaceuticals available on the market to help them reach their weight loss goals. Recently, the United States Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has approved four new weight loss drugs to help alleviate some of the issues surrounding obesity.
The FDA is responsible for ensuring that medications and other products available on the market are safe and effective for their intended use. In order to get FDA approval, drugs must go through a long and rigorous process of testing and evaluation. It is not an easy task and it can take years before a drug is officially approved.
The four new weight loss drugs recently approved by the FDA are all oral medications that are designed to help people with obesity or overweight lose weight. The drugs are Contrave, Belviq, Qsymia, and Saxenda, and all have different mechanisms of action. Contrave, for example, is a combination drug that contains two different medications — naltrexone and bupropion — that act on the brain’s opioid receptors. Belviq also works on the brain’s opioid receptors, as well as its serotonin receptors. Qsymia is a combination drug that contains two drugs, phentermine and topiramate, which help reduce appetite. Last but not least, Saxenda is a once-daily, injectable medication that helps to reduce hunger.
Each of the four drugs approved by the FDA has its own set of potential side effects, some of which may be serious. It is important to discuss any existing medical conditions, medications, or food allergies with a doctor before starting any of the weight loss drugs. Additionally, it’s essential to speak with a healthcare professional before using any of the medications in combination with other drugs, including over-the-counter medications.
In addition to being approved by the FDA, the weight loss drugs must also be prescribed by a doctor. This is because the drugs should not be taken in an over-the-counter manner, and it’s important for the patient and doctor to discuss a plan for safe and effective use. The FDA-approved weight loss drugs are also intended for short-term use only and are not meant to be a long-term solution for obesity.
Although the FDA-approved weight loss drugs are not a guaranteed solution for weight loss, they can be an effective tool for some individuals. They may help to encourage lifestyle changes and help individuals reach their own weight loss goals. If you speak with a doctor and decide to pursue weight loss drugs, make sure to follow the instructions closely and monitor your progress regularly. With some hard work and dedication, these drugs could make a difference.
It is always important to speak with a doctor before making any major changes to diet and lifestyle, and the same is true when it comes to using these FDA-approved weight loss drugs. While they may be a viable option for some people, they should not be taken lightly or without proper guidance. For more information on the individual drugs or other therapies to treat obesity and overweight, visit your local healthcare provider.
Weight gain and obesity are serious issues and can increase the risk of developing a number of different health conditions. The FDA has taken steps to make weight loss medications available to those in need, but it is important to use the drugs with caution and discuss any potential side effects with a doctor. By following the instructions closely and taking the time to make lifestyle changes, these FDA-approved weight loss drugs can be an effective way to reach weight loss goals.
Query: Woman being weighed on a scale
