What are weight loss medicines?

Weight loss tablets are a prescription-only medication designed to support obese people who are trying to lose weight.  Losing weight can be difficult and demotivating if your hard work isn’t being reflected on your bathroom scales. But losing weight and improving your health can significantly increase your quality of life. And this is especially true for people who are clinically obese. That’s where weight loss tablets come in.

How do weight loss medicines work?

Each type of weight loss tablets works in different ways. For example, weight loss medications can work by:

– Stopping your body from absorbing about one-third of the fat you eat
– Making you feel less hungry
– Limiting your appetite and cravings

Are weight loss medicines safe?

All medications come with risks and weight-loss tablets, like Orlistat and Xenical, are no different.  However, weight-loss tablets are available as a prescription-only medication meaning you cannot buy them without first being assessed by a healthcare professional. This means that your pharmacist can ensure your suitability before prescribing them.

Who can take weight loss medicines?

Weight loss pills are prescription-only medication for people who are clinically obese. This means a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or above. If you have diabetes and your BMI is 28 or above you may also be able to receive weight loss medication.

Weight loss tablets are not long term treatments. These tablets are designed to support weight loss while also making lifestyle changes, such as healthy eating and increasing activity levels.

Who shouldn’t take weight loss medicines?

You shouldn’t take weight loss medication if:

– You are pregnant or breastfeeding
– Are taking anticoagulants such as warfarin
– Have problems absorbing nutrients
– Have problems with your liver

Before you can get a prescription for weight loss tablets, a pharmacist will ensure it is safe for you to do so.