What drugs are approved for long-term treatment of obesity?
The Food and Drug Administration has approved two medicines for long-term treatment of obesity: • Sibutramine (si-BYOO-tra-meen) suppresses your appetite. • Orlistat (OR-li-stat) keeps your body from absorbing fat from the food you eat. These medicines are for people who: • have a BMI of 30 or higher • have a BMI of 27 or higher and weight-related health problems or health risks If you take these medicines, you will need to follow a healthy eating and physical activity plan at the same time. Before taking these medicines, talk with your doctor about the benefits and the side effects. • Sibutramine can raise your blood pressure and heart rate. You should not take this medicine if you have a history of high blood pressure, heart problems, or strokes. Other side effects include dry mouth, headache, constipation, anxiety, and trouble sleeping. • Orlistat may cause diarrhea, cramping, gas, and leakage of oily stool. Eating a low-fat diet can help prevent these side effects. This medicine ma
