Insomnia, nervousness, dry mouth, constipation and changes in blood pressure are some of the side effects that can arise from some of the medications currently available in the market for weight loss.
These include appetite suppressants, fat absorption inhibitors, and drugs that increase energy expenditure, such as phentermine, orlistat, and liraglutide.
This information was given Fabián Rodríguez Briceño, nutritionist and academic at the University of Playa Ancha (UPLA), Who said that appetite suppressant drugs, such as phentermine, affect the central nervous system, acting on the release of neurotransmitters to reduce the feeling of hunger.
“Side effects vary depending on the medication, but some common side effects are insomnia, nervousness, dry mouth, constipation, and changes in blood pressure. Now, safety depends on factors such as the health of the individual and medical supervision, as some medicines have risks and contraindications, so they should always be used under the guidance of a health professional,” the expert said.
Combination of diet and exercise
As for how much weight can be lost with these drugs, Rodriguez said the figure varies depending on the individual and the drug, but the patient should always combine treatment with changes in diet and exercise. He also said that medicines should not be expected to solve the problem without lifestyle changes.
But in what cases is it not recommended to use drugs? Nutritionists are clear in specifying that we should always be alert about certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or mental disorders, as these may be contraindications to the use of these drugs. Pregnant or breastfeeding women are included in this group, so it is essential that, before starting any treatment, this is discussed with a health professional.
new medicine
Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new (injectable) drug called Zepbound (tirazeptide) for chronic weight management. Regarding this option, they specified that it should be used in adults who are obese (body mass index of 30 kg/m2 or more) or overweight (body mass index of 27 kg/m2 or more) in the long-term with at least minus one Used for weight control. Weight-related conditions (such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol). It is given by subcutaneous injection once a week and the dose should be increased over a period of 4 to 20 weeks to achieve a target dose of 5 mg, 10 mg or 15 mg once a week. The maximum dose is 15 mg once a week.
According to what the expert said, Zepbound activates hormone receptors secreted by the intestine to reduce appetite and food intake. However, he said, it is a drug that can cause side effects like nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal discomfort and pain, reactions at the injection site, fatigue, hypersensitivity reactions (allergic, usually fever and rash), belching, Is. Hair loss and gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Due to the above, nutritionists stress the need for the supervision of a doctor who can evaluate the patient’s health condition to determine which is the best option for each individual.
“I believe that the best medicine for long-term weight control is to eat a healthy diet and get physical exercise. However, if a medication is used, it is very important that it is approved by the FDA and that it is administered under the indication and supervision of a health professional, in this case, a doctor,” the expert. concluded.