Weight Loss Drugs: Brand Names You Need to Know

Losing weight can be a daunting task, and for many people, it can be a lifetime struggle. If you’re considering using weight loss drugs to help you achieve your weight loss goals, it’s essential to know the different brand names available and their active ingredients. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular weight loss drugs and their brand names, helping you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

1. Orlistat (Alli, Xenical)

Orlistat is a prescription-only medication that works by reducing the amount of fat absorbed by the body. It’s available in two different forms: Alli, an over-the-counter (OTC) version, and Xenical, a prescription-only version.

• Alli (OTC): 60mg orlistat, 3x a day with meals
• Xenical (prescription): 120mg orlistat, 3x a day with meals

2. Phentermine (Adipex-P, Bontril)

Phentermine is a sympathomimetic amine, which means it works by stimulating the central nervous system to suppress appetite. It’s often prescribed in combination with other weight loss medications.

• Adipex-P (prescription): 37.5mg phentermine, 1-2x a day
• Bontril (prescription): 35mg phendimetrazine, 1-2x a day

3. Lorcaserin (Belviq)

Lorcaserin is a selective serotonin 2C receptor agonist, which helps regulate appetite and metabolism. It’s the first weight loss medication to be approved in the United States since 1999.

• Belviq (prescription): 10mg lorcaserin, 1x a day

4. Liraglutide (Saxenda)

Liraglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and appetite. It’s commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes, but it’s also approved for weight loss.

• Saxenda (prescription): 3mg liraglutide, 1x a day

5. Naltrexone and Bupropion (Contrave)

Contrave is a combination of two medications: naltrexone, which blocks opioid receptors to reduce hunger, and bupropion, an antidepressant that helps regulate appetite.

• Contrave (prescription): 8mg naltrexone and 90mg bupropion, 1x a day

6. Phentermine and Topiramate (Qsymia)

Qsymia is another combination medication, this time pairing phentermine with topiramate, an anti-seizure medication that helps reduce hunger.

• Qsymia (prescription): 7.5mg phentermine and 46mg topiramate, 1x a day

7. Orlistat and Colesevelam (Obriva)

Obriva is a combination of orlistat and colesevelam, a bile acid sequestrant that helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins.

• Obriva (prescription): 120mg orlistat and 2250mg colesevelam, 3x a day with meals

When considering weight loss drugs, it’s essential to discuss your options with your doctor to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs and health status. Remember to always follow the recommended dosage and usage instructions to ensure your safety and effectiveness.