The best weight loss medications currently available include several FDA- approved options, each with different mechanisms, effectiveness, and suitability depending on individual needs.
Top Weight Loss Medications
- Semaglutide (Wegovy) : A GLP-1 receptor agonist administered as a once-weekly injection. Clinical trials show it can lead to an average weight loss of about 12-15% of body weight over 17 months. It works by reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness. It is approved for long-term use and also has cardiovascular benefits
- Tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro) : A newer dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist, given as a weekly injection. It has shown superior weight loss results compared to semaglutide, with potential weight loss of 15-20% of initial body weight. Approved for adults with obesity (BMI ≥30)
- Phentermine : An appetite suppressant available as a pill, usually prescribed for short-term use (up to 12 weeks). It is one of the most commonly prescribed weight loss drugs due to its low cost but is a controlled substance with potential side effects like increased heart rate and blood pressure. Some newer evidence suggests it may be safe for longer use under medical supervision
- Orlistat (Xenical, Alli) : Works by inhibiting fat absorption in the intestines. It is available both as a prescription (Xenical) and over-the-counter (Alli, lower dose). It can cause gastrointestinal side effects, especially if dietary fat intake is high. It helps about 55% of users lose at least 5% of their body weight after one year
- Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia) : A combination pill that is generally more effective than phentermine alone, leading to significant weight loss (often more than 5-10% of body weight). It is a controlled substance and may not be suitable for everyone due to potential side effects and history of substance misuse
- Bupropion-naltrexone (Contrave) : A pill combining an antidepressant and opioid antagonist, which helps reduce appetite and cravings. Clinical trials show 40% of users lost at least 5% of body weight, with an average loss of 11-22 pounds
- Liraglutide (Saxenda) : Another GLP-1 receptor agonist injected daily. It tends to produce less weight loss than semaglutide but is still effective and FDA-approved for obesity treatment
Summary
Medication| Form| Approximate Weight Loss| Key Features| Notes
---|---|---|---|---
Semaglutide (Wegovy)| Weekly injection| ~12-15% body weight| Long-term use,
appetite suppressant, cardiovascular benefits| High cost, side effects
possible
Tirzepatide (Zepbound)| Weekly injection| ~15-20% body weight| Dual GLP-1/GIP
agonist, superior weight loss| Newer option, injectable
Phentermine| Pill| ~3-5% body weight| Short-term use, appetite suppressant|
Controlled substance
Orlistat (Xenical/Alli)| Pill| ~5% body weight| Fat absorption inhibitor, OTC
available| GI side effects common
Phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia)| Pill| >5-10% body weight| Combination, more
effective than phentermine alone| Controlled substance
Bupropion-naltrexone (Contrave)| Pill| ~5-10% body weight| Appetite and
craving reduction| Side effects include nausea
Liraglutide (Saxenda)| Daily injection| Less than semaglutide| GLP-1 agonist,
daily dosing| Less weight loss than Wegovy
The best medication depends on individual health status, preferences, cost, and tolerance to side effects. GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide currently show the most significant and sustained weight loss but require injections and can be costly. Pills like phentermine and orlistat are more affordable but generally yield less dramatic results and may have more side effects
. Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to select the most appropriate medication tailored to personal health needs and goals.
