Weight loss medication: what works and what to watch out for

When talking about weight loss medication, any drug prescribed or sold over the counter to help people lose body weight, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the jargon. Also called diet pills, these medicines aim to cut appetite, block nutrient absorption, or boost metabolism. Understanding the main families of drugs lets you compare safety, effectiveness, and cost before you commit.

Key types of weight loss medication

The most widely known is Orlistat, a lipase inhibitor sold as Xenical that prevents about 30% of dietary fat from being absorbed, often paired with a low‑fat diet. Another popular class is GLP‑1 agonists, injectable drugs that mimic the gut hormone GLP‑1 to reduce hunger and improve blood sugar – think semaglutide and liraglutide, which have shown strong weight‑loss results in clinical trials. SGLT2 inhibitors, originally diabetes meds like dapagliflozin (Forxiga) that cause the kidneys to excrete glucose, can also lead to modest weight loss. Finally, Metformin, a first‑line diabetes drug sometimes used off‑label for its modest appetite‑suppressing effect, remains a low‑cost option for many patients.

Each of these groups interacts with the body differently. Orlistat works in the gut, so it can cause oily stools or urgency if you eat too much fat. GLP‑1 agonists act on the brain’s appetite centre, which can bring nausea, but they also improve insulin sensitivity. SGLT2 inhibitors increase urinary glucose loss, leading to a slight diuretic effect and a risk of urinary infections. Metformin’s most common side effect is gastrointestinal upset, but its safety profile is well‑established after decades of use.

Choosing the right medication depends on several factors: existing health conditions, how much weight you need to lose, your tolerance for side effects, and whether you’re already managing diabetes or another chronic disease. For example, a patient with type 2 diabetes may benefit from an SGLT2 inhibitor that tackles both blood sugar and weight, whereas someone without diabetes might prefer Orlistat or a GLP‑1 agonist. Cost also matters – brand‑name GLP‑1 shots can be pricey, while generic Metformin and Orlistat are more affordable.

Below you’ll find detailed articles that break down each drug class, compare them side by side, and give practical tips on dosing, diet adjustments, and monitoring. Whether you’re just curious or ready to start a regimen, this collection will help you make an informed decision about the best weight loss medication for your goals.