Anti-obesity medication

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Anti-obesity medication

Anti-obesity medication or weight loss drugs are pharmacological agents that reduce or control weight. These drugs alter one of the fundamental processes of the human body, weight regulation, by altering either appetite, metabolism, or absorption of calories.

Pronunciation: /ˌænti.oʊˈbiːsɪti mɛdɪˈkeɪʃən/

Etymology: The term "anti-obesity medication" is derived from the Greek "anti" meaning against, "obesity" from the Latin "obesus" meaning fat or plump, and "medication" from the Latin "medicatio" meaning healing.

Types of Anti-obesity medication

There are several types of anti-obesity drugs, including:

  • Anorectics: Also known as appetite suppressants, these medications work in the brain to decrease appetite and increase feelings of fullness.
  • Lipase inhibitors: These medications block the absorption of dietary fat in the intestines.
  • Thermogenics: These medications increase the body's metabolism, causing it to burn more calories.

Side Effects

Like all medications, anti-obesity drugs have potential side effects, including:

  • Increased heart rate
  • High blood pressure
  • Sweating
  • Dry mouth
  • Insomnia
  • Constipation
  • Headache

Usage

Anti-obesity medications are typically used in conjunction with a low-calorie diet and regular physical activity. They are not a substitute for these lifestyle changes but can be an effective adjunct to them for some people.

See Also

External links

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