Articles
Prescription weight-loss drugs
Common weight-loss drugs
Safety of weight-loss drugs
Factors to consider
What drugs are approved in the U.S. for weight loss?
Content
Who is a candidate for weight-loss drugs?
How well do weight-loss drugs work?
What you should know about weight-loss drugs
How long does drug therapy last?
What drugs are approved for weight loss?
The bottom line
Who is a candidate for weight-loss drugs?
Your doctor may consider a weight-loss drug for you if you haven't been able to lose weight through diet and exercise and you meet one of the following:
- Your body mass index (BMI) is greater than 30.
- Your BMI is greater than 27 and you have a serious medical problem related to obesity, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
Before selecting a medicine for you, your doctor will consider your history and health challenges. Then your doctor will talk with you about the pros and cons of prescription weight-loss drugs.
It's important to note that weight-loss drugs aren't for everyone. For example, prescription weight-loss drugs shouldn't be used if you're trying to get pregnant, are pregnant or are breast-feeding.
