When it's about shedding off those extra pounds, weight loss pills can be a potent game changer. However, as there are many options, what is the strongest weight loss prescription pill? You should know that the strength and suitability of the medication depend on your health needs, preexisting medical conditions, and medical history. This blog will guide you on the most powerful weight loss medications that can help lose weight more effectively and fast. Ready to discover? Let’s start!
What is the Strongest Weight Loss Prescription Pill?
Phentermine/topiramate (brand name Qsymia) is considered the strongest prescription weight-loss medication in terms of potency. It works effectively but can take a longer time. But, this is not always the case. Though weight loss medications are effective, they work differently for everyone. So, discuss this with your doctor which medication will most efficiently and safely work for you.
Top 5 Prescription Weight Loss Pills:
Medication | How it Works | Effectiveness | FDA-Approval | Common Side Effects |
Phentermine/topiramate (Qsymia) | The most effective pill containing phentermine (a suppressant) and topiramate that reduces appetite and burns out excess calories. | Helps lose about 5%-10% of the weight, taking around 1 year. | 2012 | May include constipation, dry mouth, insomnia, or heart-related problems. |
Bupropion/naltrexone (Contrave) | This medication that contains bupropion (an antidepressant), helps reduce appetite and naltrexone (a drug) that prevents cravings. | Helps lose around 5% of the weight. | 2014 | Potential side effects are headache, nausea, and insomnia. |
Orlistat (Alli) | This medication blocks the activity of enzymes that assist in metabolizing the fat in the intestine, lowering the fat content absorbed from food. | Helps lose around 3% of body weight, although some individuals might notice the huge improvements with proper diet and exercise. | 2007 | The side effects may include abdominal cramps, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and fatty stool. |
Phentermine (Adipex-P) | This medication suppresses appetite, but used only for a short period (for around 12 weeks) along with proper diet and regular exercise. | Helps lose about 7% of body weight. | 1959 | The side effects may include headache, insomnia, high blood pressure, fast or irregular heart rate. |
Tirzepatide (Zepbound) | Act like a GIP receptor agonist that reduces appetite. | Loses around 15-20% of body weight after 72 weeks of treatment. | 2023 | The side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, heartburn, bloating, and constipation. |
Who Can Take Prescription Weight Loss Pills?
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), you might be eligible for weight loss pills if you meet these criteria:
Have a body mass index (BMI) of more than 30
Have a BMI of 27 or above with other medical conditions associated with obesity such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
Haven’t reduced at least 5% of the weight in 3 to 6 months with lifestyle modifications.
Note: Make sure to discuss your overall treatment goals, health issues, and medical history with your doctor. They may help specify the best treatment option depending on your weight goals, preferences, and possible side effects.
How Long Do Weight Loss Medications Take to Show Effective Results?
The time it takes for weight loss pills to show results depends on the medication and individual response. Here is a breakdown of each weight loss pill and its expected timeline to show the results:
Weight Loss Pills | Timeline |
Phentermine/topiramate (Qsymia) | around 8-12 weeks |
Bupropion/naltrexone (Contrave): | around 4 weeks |
Orlistat (Alli) | around 2 weeks |
Phentermine (Adipex-P) | a few weeks |
Tirzepatide (Zepbound): | about 4-12 weeks |
Note: For full benefits, consistent use over time and a doctor-approved plan are essential.
How Do Prescription Weight Loss Pills Work?
This is how weight loss pills work:
Suppress Appetite: Reduce hunger by impacting brain chemicals and making you feel fuller for a prolonged duration, lowering overall calorie intake.
Increase Metabolism: Boost the body's metabolic rate which helps with fast calorie burning not only while moving but also at rest.
Inhibit Fat Absorption: Block the dietary fat absorption in the intestines by inhibiting the activity of digestive enzymes that metabolize fat, thus, reducing the calories you absorb.
Maintain Hormonal Levels: Target the hormones responsible for controlling appetite, hunger, and metabolism, thus, lowering food intake.
Stabilize Blood Sugar: Control blood sugar levels that in turn lower food cravings and appetite, especially in people living with type 2 diabetes.
Burn off Fat: Encourages the body cells to utilize fat from the natural fat stores, consequently burning off fat.
Tips to Maximize the Effectiveness of Weight Loss Pills
By following these measures, you can boost the efficacy of weight loss medications:
Eat a Nutritious Diet: Add nutrient-dense foods rich in whole grains, proteins, dietary fibers, and veggies to your everyday diet to enhance the pill's efficacy.
Exercise Regularly: Add strength training or cardio exercises to your daily fitness regimen for improved fat-burning and metabolism processes.
Stay Well-hydrated: Have a lot of water for effective processing and absorption of the medicine.
Take the Right Dose: Always use the pill as prescribed to avoid any reduction in their effectiveness.
Get Quality Sleep: Make sure to get at least 7 to 9 hours of sound sleep to promote your overall weight loss.
Avoid Alcohol: Interaction between alcohol and pills can occur, lowering the efficacy of the medicine.
Maintain Consistency: Always stick to taking medicine on time at the right dose for incredible long-term results.
The Bottom Line
So, what is the strongest weight loss prescription pill? Well, Phentermine/topiramate (Qsymia) is considered the strongest among all in terms of potency but it takes a longer time. Other effective weight loss pills may also include Bupropion-naltrexone (Contrave), Orlistat (Alli, Xenical), Phentermine (Adipex-P), or Tirzepatide (Zepbound) which may work differently for each individual. Hence, it's crucial to discuss your weight loss goals, preexisting medical issues, and medical history with your doctor to get the most out of the treatment.
Remember: Weight loss pills are tools to aid your journey, not quick fixes. Work with your doctor to develop a comprehensive plan, including healthy habits, to achieve long-lasting success. Take the first step today, and let your weight loss journey begin
Disclaimer: Weight loss pills are not for everyone. Consult your doctor before starting any medication, especially if you have underlying medical conditions.
Read Also: Ozempic Vs Saxenda: Which One is Best For Weight Loss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much weight can you lose with topiramate 50 mg?
You can lose around 6% of the weight with 50 mg of topiramate.
Which other medications can interact with weight loss pills?
Antidepressants, blood pressure medications, blood thinners, blood sugar medications, and thyroid hormone replacements can interact and reduce the weight loss pill's effectiveness.
Can weight loss pills really replace diet and exercise?
No, they can't. Weight loss pills when taken with healthy foods and regular exercise can be most effective in maintaining weight.
What is the only OTC weight loss pill approved by the FDA?
Orlistat (Alli) is the FDA-approved OTC weight loss pill that helps prevent the body from absorbing fat, thus, reducing weight.
Are weight loss pills covered under insurance plans?
No, weight loss pills are not covered under all insurance plans. Coverage plans can vary so always check the plan details for confirmation.
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