Most of the weight loss occurred during the first 6 months of treatment. Patients taking the drugs for more than 6 months either maintained their weight loss or experienced a slight increase. Once the weight-loss drugs were stopped, patients regained lost weight. The review focuses on prescription appetite suppressants such as phentermine, fenfluramine, and dexfenfluramine that decrease appetite or increase satiety by altering the action of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Most of these medications are approved for short-term treatment of obesity, although dexfenfluramine is approved for treatment up to 12 months.
Obesity is a risk factor for diabetes, gallbladder disease, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Drug treatment may reduce health risks over the short-term, several studies show. Most side effects of prescribed weight-loss drugs, such as dry mouth, sleep disturbance, or diarrhea, are minor, and many improve with continued use. However, serious and even fatal side effects have also been reported. Doctors also need to be cautious when prescribing these medications to patients with a variety of medical conditions, including depression, glaucoma, and a history of alcohol or other drug abuse. Most important, medication should be used along with a program to help patients improve eating and exercise habits.