Prescription obesity drugs are still controversial. Licences for two widely prescribed drugs, Phentermine and Amfepramone have recently been withdrawn in the EU, and manufacturers of Adifax and Ponderax voluntarily withdrew them after concerns regarding heart disorders. Although these drugs may be available on some Internet sites, we would recommend that you do not take any of them.
However, two new drugs have received licences, and these drugs may be of some help to some patients.
Xenical (Orlistat) works by preventing the body absorbing around 30% of the fat consumed by blocking enzymes that play a part in digestion of fat. Studies showed that around 85% of patients using Xenical achieved a weight loss of more than 5% of the total body weight after one year. Because the fat is not properly digested, side effects include flatulence, anal discharge, faecal urgency and oily stools, but these can be greatly reduced by eating a low-fat diet. This acts as an incentive for many patients to follow a low-fat diet, as the alternative can be extremely unpleasant! Patients with diabetes are sometimes prescribed Xenical, but must be closely monitored as many drugs used to treat diabetes can cause additional diarrhoea.
Reductil (Sibutramine) inhibits the re- uptake of the brain chemicals serotonin and noradrenaline in the part of the brain that deals with controlling the appetite. So, the drug works by making patients feel fuller. Studies showed that more than 50% of patients lost 10% of their total body weight in 6 months. 69% of patients also managed to maintain at least a 5% weight loss over the following 18 months. Side effects can include insomnia, constipation and a dry mouth. There is also a potential small increase in heart rate and blood pressure, but most doctors feel this very small rise is usually manageable in most patients.
These drugs can only be prescribed by a medical doctor. If you want to visit your doctor to discuss being prescribed either of these drugs, here's some things to bear in mind;
- You will need to be significantly overweight before the doctor will consider any prescription obesity drug. General guidelines are that you should have a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 30 or more (or 28 if you have a related medical condition). You can calculate your BMI by using the BMI calculator tool in the dieting information section
- As you will also have to follow a low-fat diet, many doctors require a 'proof' period before prescribing, where you can prove you can lose at least a small amount of weight on your own;
- The drugs will only be prescribed for an initial set period of time, usually around 12 weeks. If the patient has not lost a significant amount of weight in that time, they will usually be taken off the drug. If they have lost enough weight they may be allowed to stay on the drug;
- It is really important to be monitored whilst taking these drugs. Whilst they may seem tempting, try to avoid going to any slimming clinic that will prescribe either of the drugs, or any other prescription drugs. Only your GP will know your full medical history and so will be able to prescribe safely;
- Remember that these drugs will not work or be suitable for everyone and that they should be regarded as a last resort. Why not try to lose as much weight as possible first through a sensible diet and exercise programme. You'll find loads of support, help and advice at www.feelingok.co.uk, so don't assume that if you have gone astray in the past, you'll do so again. This time you will do it
