7 Weight Loss Pills That Actually Work (2025)

Top-rated weight loss pills

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved seven weight loss drugs. These drugs are top-rated due to their effectiveness and safety profiles. Medications include:

• Bupropion-naltrexone
• Liraglutide
• Orlistat
• Phentermine-topiramate
• Semaglutide (Wegovy is approved for weight loss)
• Setmelanotide (used in obese patients due to rare genetic conditions)
• Tirzepatide (Zepbound is approved for weight loss)

  *Note: Ozempic, another semaglutide, is not currently approved for weight loss specifically. Neither is Rybelsus, the pill form of the same medication. Mounjaro (tirzepatide), is also not approved for weight loss.

Each medication has its own set of benefits and potential drawbacks.

• Bupropion-naltrexone: Influences brain chemistry to reduce cravings through a pill taken one to two times per day. Possible side effects include headaches and nausea.
• Liraglutide: Targets brain areas that regulate appetite and food intake. Possible side effects are diarrhea, nausea and trouble sleeping.
• Orlistat: Pill taken three times per day. Orlistat is available over the counter in a lower dose without a prescription. Works as an appetite suppressant and makes you feel full sooner. Possible side effects include gastrointestinal issues and headaches.
• Phentermine/topiramate: Works through appetite suppression and metabolic enhancement through a pill taken once a day. Side effects include insomnia, dry mouth and mood changes.
• Semaglutide: Curbs appetite and regulates food intake. Potential side effects include gastrointestinal issues, heartburn and belching.
• Setmelanotide: Suppresses appetite and increases metabolism. Possible side effects are irritability, tiredness and trouble concentrating.
• Tirzepatide: Slows digestion and acts as an appetite suppressant with side effects including stomach pain, heartburn, skin irritation and itching.

How weight loss pills work

Weight loss pills work through various mechanisms, including increasing metabolism, suppressing appetite or blocking fat absorption. There are several types of weight loss pills, including:

• Appetite suppressants: These pills work by reducing hunger and making you feel full longer. By curbing appetite, suppressants help you consume fewer calories, which can lead to weight loss. Examples of FDA-approved appetite suppressant pills are naltrexone-bupropion and phentermine/topiramate.
• Fat blockers: Fat-blocking pills prevent the absorption of dietary fats into the intestines. This means some of the fats you consume are not absorbed and instead excreted. This helps reduce overall caloric intake and contributes to weight loss. Alli and Xenical (orlistat) are FDA-approved fat blocker pills.
• Metabolism boosters: These medications increase the rate at which the body burns calories. By enhancing the metabolic process, boosters help you burn more calories at rest, which contributes to weight loss over time.
• Carb blockers: Carb blockers inhibit carbohydrate digestion. They work by causing a delay in carbohydrate absorption. These medications are useful for people with diabetes and prediabetes. Acarbose (Precose) and miglitol (Glyset) are two prescription starch/carb blockers available.
• Thermogenics: Thermogenics increase your body’s core temperature, resulting in the burning of more calories for energy. Thermogenics can be effective if you want to boost your metabolism and energy levels. Note that the FDA does not regulate thermogenic supplements.
• Diuretics and laxatives: These pill types increase water loss and promote bowel movements. While they can lead to temporary weight loss due to fluid loss, they are less effective for long-term weight loss.

Where to buy authentic weight loss pills

Authentic weight loss pills can be purchased from licensed pharmacies, reputable online retailers or directly from the manufacturer. It’s very important to avoid buying them from unverified sources to ensure product authenticity and effectiveness. Avoid products or companies that make unrealistic claims or lack clear ingredient lists. Here are some tips for purchasing:

• Check FDA approval: Ensure medication has FDA approval or certification.
• Look for proper labeling: Authentic products should have clear ingredient lists and usage instructions.
• Avoid unrealistic claims: Be cautious of products or companies that promise quick and drastic results without evidence or proper labeling.

Prescription requirements vary. Most weight loss medications will require a prescription from a medical professional. However, some, like orlistat, have an over-the-counter option (Alli) at a lower dose than the prescription strength medication (Xenical).

How to maximize your results with weight loss pills

For you to achieve the best results from weight loss pills, it’s important to use them in conjunction with a balanced diet, regular exercise and other healthy lifestyle practices. Here are some strategies to maximize weight loss pill results:

• Balanced diet: Focus on eating a variety of nutritious foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Avoid high-calorie, low-nutrient foods that can hinder weight loss efforts. Staying hydrated is also an important component of a balanced diet.
• Regular exercise: Incorporate both cardiovascular and strength-training exercises into your routine. Aim for a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
• Healthy lifestyle: Ensure you get adequate sleep and manage your stress effectively. Poor sleep and high stress can negatively impact weight loss efforts and overall health.
• Stress management: Practice stress-reducing techniques like mindfulness, meditation or yoga. Managing stress can help prevent emotional eating, which supports weight loss goals.
• Health care professional support: Staying in contact with a medical or health care professional is an important part of a weight loss journey. Professionals can monitor progress, watch for medication interactions and help you reach your weight goals based on your individual health profile.

Safety and side effects of weight loss pills

Potential side effects from weight loss pills include gastrointestinal issues, dry mouth and insomnia. More severe cases of cardiovascular problems and mood changes are also possible. Discuss potential side effects with a health care provider to be aware and informed.

It’s important to note that not all medication side effects are immediate. Some develop over time or become apparent with only prolonged use. If you experience severe or unexpected symptoms, you should discontinue use and seek medical attention quickly.

To minimize adverse effect risks associated with weight loss pills, follow the prescribed dosage and avoid exceeding it. Additionally, monitor yourself closely for side effects. You should also consult with a health care provider and check in regularly. Lastly, avoid mixing weight loss pills with other medications without professional guidance, as interactions can lead to adverse effects.

LookMeds

4.7(6)

Visit Site

See AlsoFDA Approves Most Potent Weight Loss Drug Yet

G-Plans

4.0(1)

Learn more

Hers

1.0(9)

Learn more

FAQ

The FDA has approved multiple weight loss medications. These include bupropiron-naltrexone, orlistat, phentermine-topiramate, liraglutide, semaglutide, tirzepatide and setmelanotide.

To find medication reviews, check medical websites, online pharmacies and health forums. Always consider reviews from credible sources like a .org or .gov website or a source with references.

Yes, Alli is the brand name for an OTC medication containing the drug orlistat. Orlistat is FDA-approved and should be used with caution.

Yes, a primary care doctor can prescribe weight loss pills. You may need to schedule a physical examination so a physician can decide if the pills are appropriate based on your individual health needs.

Bottom line

Effective weight loss pills can support your weight loss efforts. It’s best to use medication alongside healthy lifestyle choices like a healthy diet and regular exercise for effectiveness and longevity. Additionally, it’s important to choose pills with proven safety records.

Weight loss pills can offer benefits, but they are not a stand-alone solution. Long-term success often depends on a combination of medication and sustainable lifestyle changes. Relying solely on pills without addressing underlying habits may lead to temporary results. Additionally, some weight loss pills may have side effects or interact with other medications, making professional guidance crucial.

You should consult with a health care professional to make an informed decision about using weight loss pills. A professional will help you determine the best medication match based on your individual health profile. Additionally, make sure to research a medication’s safety and side effects before adding it to your regimen.

Did you find this article helpful? |

Share this article