Appetite Suppressants: Do They Help with Weight Loss?
Reviewed by Dr. Ben Ng, Chief Medical Officer & Weight Loss Program Director
How Appetite Suppressants Work
Appetite suppressants typically work by affecting brain chemicals that control hunger signals, such as serotonin and norepinephrine. Some suppressants can increase feelings of fullness, while others slow digestion, allowing you to feel satisfied for longer periods.
Types of Appetite Suppressants
- Prescription Medications: Drugs like phentermine and liraglutide can help reduce appetite in the short term but often require medical supervision.
- Over-the-Counter Supplements: Herbal supplements such as green tea extract or caffeine are commonly marketed as appetite reducers, but their effectiveness and safety are less clear.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
- Heart issues: Some appetite suppressants can cause increased heart rate and high blood pressure.
- Digestive problems: Slower digestion can lead to bloating, nausea, and other gastrointestinal discomforts.
- Dependency: Psychological dependency on appetite suppressants can occur, especially if they are used as a long-term solution.
When to Use Appetite Suppressants
Appetite suppressants should be used with caution and typically only for short-term weight management when prescribed by a healthcare provider. They are most effective when combined with a healthy eating plan and regular exercise.
Key Takeaways
While appetite suppressants can help reduce hunger and facilitate weight loss, they are not a sustainable or long-term solution. They should be used with caution, under medical supervision, and as part of a holistic weight management plan that includes lifestyle changes.
Sources
- Singapore Ministry of Health, "Pharmacological Approaches to Weight Loss" https://www.smj.org.sg/article/health-promotion-board%E2%80%93ministry-health-clinical-practice-guidelines-obesity
- Journal of Obesity & Metabolism, "Efficacy and Risks of Appetite Suppressants in Weight Loss" https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/anorexiants-mechanisms-efficacy-and-clinical-applications-in-weight-management-132962.html
- National Institutes of Health, "Use of Appetite Suppressants for Obesity Management" https://e-enm.org/journal/view.php?doi=10.3803%2FEnM.2020.934