Weight loss medications can be a powerful tool in weight loss, weight management, and in the fight against obesity. However, like any medication, they come with potential side effects. While these side effects can be manageable for some, they can also be impactful enough to deter people from taking the medication or cause them to stop prematurely.
This article explores the various side effects of prescription weight loss drugs, helping you make informed decisions about their use.
1. What Are Weight Loss Medications?
Weight loss medications are prescription drugs that help individuals lose weight and maintain weight loss over time. To ensure users lose weight and maintain weight loss, they are often combined with a reduced-calorie diet and regular exercise to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Weight loss medications can help individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or those with a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
2. Understanding How Weight Loss Medications Work
There are several categories of weight loss drugs, each working in different ways to promote weight loss. Here's a brief overview:
- Appetite Suppressants: These medications work by affecting brain chemicals that regulate hunger, making you feel fuller for longer. One common example of this is bupropion/naltrexone combination (Contrave).
- Lipase Inhibitors: These medications block the absorption of fat from food in the digestive system. Orlistat (Xenical) is the most common example.
- Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Receptor Agonists: These medications mimic a natural gut hormone that regulates appetite, blood sugar, and satiety. Liraglutide (Saxenda) and semaglutide (Ozempic/Rybelsus) are popular examples.
3. Weight Loss Medications And Their Side Effects
While losing weight is the key goal of using weight loss drugs, they can come with some uncomfortable side effects. Research in Canada shows that up to 50% of people who take prescription weight loss quit because of the side effects. Below is a list of commonly reported side effects, and suggestions for managing them.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms - Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, and Constipation
These are some of the most common side effects, especially with appetite suppressants and GLP-1 receptor agonists. It should lessen over time, but if it's severe, your doctor may adjust the dosage. These medications are typically started at a low dose and slowly increased to mitigate these effects.
Diarrhea and constipation can occur with various weight loss medications. Lipase inhibitors can cause oily stools and even incontinence.
Heartburn and Indigestion
Appetite suppressants can irritate the stomach lining, leading to heartburn. GLP-1 receptor agonists can also cause indigestion. While these symptoms typically reduce after two weeks, it is best to speak with a pharmacist first about lifestyle recommendations to reduce heartburn before trying antacids.
It is important to report any side effects you have from any prescription weight loss drugs to your primary healthcare provider, particularly if they are severe, chronic, and impact your day-to-day life.
How to manage these symptoms:
- Consuming a plain diet can ease symptoms of nausea. Eating crackers, mint, or ginger-based foods or drinks about a half hour after taking your medications can also aid in stomach upset.
- For those experiencing diarrhea, stay well hydrated and avoid dairy and high-fiber foods until symptoms subside. Adversely, consuming fiber can aid with constipation.
- Eat slowly and stop when full. Consume more frequent meals that are smaller in portions.
- Avoid being active after eating.
- Take antacids to treat heartburn
4. Less Common, But Potentially Serious Side Effects
While less frequent, some side effects require immediate medical attention:
- Gallbladder Disease: Lipase inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists can increase the risk of gallstones and gallbladder problems. If you experience intense upper abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, consult your doctor immediately.
- Mood Changes and Depression: A boxed warning is present on some medications highlighting a potential increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. If you experience mood swings, anxiety, or depression, talk to your doctor immediately.
- Pancreatitis: GLP-1 receptor agonists carry a small risk of pancreatitis, causing severe abdominal pain. Seek medical attention if you experience such pain.
5. When to See a Healthcare Provider for Weight Loss Medication Side Effects
It is important to report any side effects you have from any prescription weight loss drugs to your primary healthcare provider, particularly if they are severe, chronic, and impact your day-to-day life. However, some side effects from taking weight loss drugs can be more concerning.
1. Severe or Persistent Nausea, Vomiting, or Pain
Lipase inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists can increase the risk of gallstones and gallbladder problems. If you experience intense upper abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, consult your doctor immediately.
2. Abdominal Pain or Signs of Pancreatitis
GLP-1 receptor agonists carry a small risk of pancreatitis, causing severe abdominal pain. Seek medical attention if you experience such pain.
3. Increased Heart Rate or Blood Pressure
Weight loss drugs can cause health problems, such as elevated heart rate and blood pressure. Experiencing palpitations, chest pain, or increase in blood pressure readings could lead to cardiovascular complications.
4. Severe Mood Changes or Mental Health Problems
A boxed warning is present on some medications highlighting a potential increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. If you experience mood swings, anxiety, or depression, speak to your doctor immediately.
6. Important Considerations
Here are some key factors to keep in mind when considering weight loss medication:
- Individual Response: Side effects vary depending on the medication and individual. Some people experience minimal side effects, while others may have more trouble.
- Dosage: Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it can help mitigate side effects.
- Addressing Underlying Conditions: Weight loss medications alone are not a magic bullet. They work best alongside a healthy diet and exercise routine. These lifestyle changes can also improve your overall health and potentially minimize the medication's dosage and side effects.
- Long-Term Use: Weight loss medications are typically prescribed for short-term use, but the duration depends on your individual needs and progress. Regular monitoring by your doctor is essential.
Alternatives to Weight Loss Drugs
For some people, weight loss medication may not be the right option. Here are some alternative approaches to consider:
- Lifestyle Changes: A healthy diet and regular exercise plan is the cornerstone of weight management. A registered dietitian can help create a personalized meal plan, and a fitness professional can guide you on safe and effective exercise routines.
- Behavioral Therapy: Therapy can help address underlying emotional or psychological issues that may contribute to weight gain. It can also teach you coping mechanisms for managing stress and emotional eating.
Weight loss medications can be a valuable tool, but their effectiveness comes with the possibility of side effects. Understanding these effects and having an open conversation with your doctor allows you to decide whether they're right for you. Remember, a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and ongoing medical supervision is key to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.