How Does Appetite Suppressant Facilitate Weight Loss?

Appetite suppressants form a class of drugs that promote weight loss by suppressing the eating capacity, usually excessive or obsessive, of an individual. Research proves that the obese people are often voracious eaters and find difficult to gain control on their desire to eat. Appetite suppressing drugs enhance the levels of neurotransmitters, called serotonin or catecholamines in brain, signaling the body to eat less than usual. Two mutually linked objectives are achieved from the administration of these drugs – reduction in longing for food and achievement of sensation of fullness.

The appetite suppressants first came into the public notice when the FDA approved them, back in 1959. Since then, a number of appetite suppressing drugs have made their way to the market. Phentermine, Meridia, Xenical, and Redux have been among the popular drugs for appetite suppression, though some of them were later withdrawn due to side-effects. Natural supplements prepared from herbal extracts have gained popularity in the recent times. Garcinia cambogia, hoodia, and Paulina cupana are some of the known ingredients used in these. Wood betony is a herbal formulation that is recommended as safe for children and teenagers.

Not all of these drugs are free from side-effects. While dry mouth, difficulty in sleeping, and restless are some mild side-effects, more severe reactions, such as abnormal blood pressure and increased pulse have also been reported. However, these effects usually surface due to wrong selection of an appetite suppressant or ignorance of individual requirements. Expert consultation is essentially considered before choosing any of these drugs.

Appetite suppressants can help one lose weight between 5 to 22 pounds, exact results differing from person to person. Monitoring the progress on a weekly basis can help one adjudge the effectiveness of a particular supplement. However, there is always a potential risk of re-gaining weight once these drugs are stopped. It is important to adopt a healthy diet plan and regular exercise regime along with the use of appetite suppressants. This helps in maintaining the optimal weight, even if you stop taking these drugs after few months.